3-day cycling break in Upper Austria
Upper Austria may not be the first place that comes to mind when planning an e-bike holiday, but that’s exactly what makes it so appealing. While many visitors head straight for the Salzkammergut, this quieter corner of the region offers peaceful cycle paths, picturesque villages, gentle rivers and beautiful lake views, all without the crowds.
We based ourselves near Schwanenstadt for three nights, allowing us to explore a different route each day without the hassle of changing accommodation.
If you’re looking for a relaxed short break that’s easy to organise, great value for money and packed with variety, this three-day route is well worth considering.
Choose this route if:
Route at a Glance
Route Type: Three-day circular rides from one base
Daily Distance: Between 40-60 km
Difficulty: Easy (all three days)
Surface: Mainly paved cycle paths with some gravel sections
Traffic Free: Not completely, but it does follow quiet side roads and bike paths.
The Holiday Facts
How many days? – 3 days
Can I stay in one accommodation? Yes
Will I need panniers? No, but I always prefer to take 1 with me.
Is it beginner-friendly? – Yes
When should I go? – Anytime in Spring, Summer and Autumn as availability is good.
My Honest Review
What surprised me? – How quiet it was for August
Would you ride it again? – Yes, I would pick slightly different routes, but I would return to the area.
What shouldn’t people miss? The eastern shore of the Traunsee. Also take a ride up the mountain on the Grünberg Cable Car, the views are breathtaking.
Who would enjoy it? If you like easy riding, a variety of terrain, and an excursion or two, then anyone will enjoy it. I would say my fellow over 50s would love it!
Suitable For:
✔ Beginners
✔ Leisure cyclists
✔ Couples
✔ E-bike riders
✔ Riders over 50
If you’re looking for an easy three-day cycling break away from the busy tourist hotspots, this part of Upper Austria is an excellent choice. By staying near Schwanenstadt, you can enjoy three completely different rides through peaceful countryside, alongside rivers and around beautiful lakes, all without having to unpack your bags each day. It’s relaxed, scenic and perfect for a last-minute escape.
Day 1
Route
Schwanenstadt → Vöcklabruck → Zell am Pettenfirst → Atzbach → Schwanenstadt
Distance: 41
Elevation: 360 m
Highlights
- Rolling Austrian farmland
- Apple orchards
- Corn and soya fields
- Pretty villages
- Quiet roads
Coffee Stop
We took our own snack today as we weren’t sure if we would find a stop. Apart from Vöclklebruck, which is a town and has plenty on offer but it was too soon after starting to stop. Therefore, taking something with you means you can find a bench with a view, as we did and enjoy a snack.
Day 2
Route
Schwanenstadt → River Traun → Wels → River Ager → Schwanenstadt
Distance: 58 km
Elevation: 240 m
Highlights
- River Traun cycle path
- Historic centre of Wels
- Peaceful riverside riding
- Birdlife
- Old town cafés
Lunch Recommendation
We took a picnic we bought from a supermarket on the way. Stopping in the shade on the way back by the River Ager, where we had a snooze in the sun after our sandwiches.
We stopped in Wels and found a Turkish coffee shop called By Simit, which has a huge array of Turkish pastries, so had to sample a few, just to ensure they were all delicious!
Day 3
Route
Schwanenstadt → Traun Waterfalls → Traunsee → East Shore → R4 Cycle Path → Schwanenstadt
Distance: 54.1 km
Elevation: 450 m
Highlights
- Traun Waterfalls
- Traunsee
- Views towards Gmunden
- Mountain scenery
Best Photo Stop
The eastern shore of the the Traunsee has spectacular views over the lake to the far shore. You can only cycle about half way down the lake where the car park is and then turn round and head back to Gmunden which is worth a look around.
Tip of the day
I would stick to the farm and village route back to Schwannenstadt, rather than follow the R4 route. It’s pretty enough coming out of Gmunden but after that it’s not that interesting.
Also, there is a very high bridge to cross on the way out of Gmunden, so if heights are not your thing, then pick another route round it.
