E-Biking Across Austria After Covid: My 3-Week Cycling Journey
In 2021, after the initial lockdown, I decided to do something that felt just scary enough to be exciting. I set off on a three-week solo e-bike tour across Austria, following some of the country’s most beautiful bike paths, and creating what became known as the Smile Tour of Austria.
The idea behind the solo tour was simple. I wanted to showcase the scenery we’re lucky enough to have in Austria, help people understand what a bike tour actually feels like day to day, and give my website and social media a bit more real-world visibility. But more than anything, I wanted to spread a bit of positivity about travelling again after lockdown. Since March 2020, we’d all been through a lot, and it felt like everyone needed a reason to smile.
Solo E-Biking Across Austria: Confidence on Two Wheels
I’d been riding an e-bike for well over a decade and had completed several tours across Austria and in other European countries. The big difference this time was that I was on my own. No husband riding alongside me, no built-in bike mechanic, and no shared decision-making. Just me, my e-bike, the route, the weather, and the occasional moment of thinking, “right, what now?” And honestly, it was brilliant.
Self reliant
Each day, I was responsible for everything. Getting myself organised, keeping an eye on battery levels, navigating the route, timing the day, and making sure I reached my destination safely and in one piece. It felt freeing in a quiet, steady way. With every kilometre, my confidence grew. I didn’t have to rely on anyone else, and I realised I was more capable than I’d given myself credit for.
You Don’t Need to Be an Athlete to Ride an E-Bike
It’s important to say, I’m not an athlete or a fitness fanatic. I’m in my 50s, of the cuddly persuasion, and I have no interest in chasing speed or statistics. I simply love cycling and exploring the countryside on two wheels. That was a big part of why I wanted to do this tour. I wanted to show that you don’t need to be super-fit or fearless to go on a bike tour. If you can ride a bike, you can ride an e-bike. It’s still cycling, just a bit easier and a lot more accessible.
Changes after COVID
COVID changed many people’s outlooks on life and travel. Whether that change has been for the better is still up for debate, but one phrase kept popping up at the time, the so-called “new normal”. I didn’t feel like waiting around to see what that meant, so I created my own. My new normal involved cycling over 1,100 kilometres across Austria, riding through 7 of the country’s 9 provinces, and seeing just how diverse this small but stunning country really is.
Finding Confidence, Quiet and Joy on a Solo Bike Tour
Somewhere along the way, something else shifted. I realised how much I enjoyed my own company. Evenings were often quiet. I’d sit with a book, enjoy the view, or simply do nothing. And that felt good. Everyone I met along the way was incredibly encouraging. People kept telling me I was brave, which always made me smile, because it never felt like bravery. I was just doing something I loved, at my own pace, in a country I call home.
Being able to get into a daily routine gave me a sense of organisation and kept me calm. I would always stop for a nice coffee and cake along the way, get my map out and look at where I had been and where I was going. My preference is to have a paper map in my hand when I am at a coffee stop, as I can see the full route, rather than looking at it on a small screen. During the tour, it also sparked conversations with others in the cafe, leading me to meet interesting people who gave me tips on better routes or sights to see along the way.
It felt like a proper adventure, even though I was never more than five hours by train from my front door. That’s one of the things I love most about e-bike travel. Adventure doesn’t have to mean far away. Sometimes it’s right on your doorstep.
Smile Tour of Austria?
When I was planning the route, I noticed it looked like a smile on the map. And since we could all do with a few more smiles, the name stuck. The Smile Tour of Austria felt right.
In my Komoot account, you’ll find the individual stages of the tour, including distances, height gain, and the main bike route names, just in case you fancy exploring them yourself. You can find me there under Lindsey Cairns – Ebike Europe.
My Final Thoughts For You
Whatever you’re looking for, I truly believe trying an e-bike is something you’ll never regret. It opens up a whole new world for so many people. Just be warned, it’s highly addictive. Once you start, you may find it very hard to stop.
The Smile Tour of Austria became a reminder of what’s possible, even after challenging times. No age or fitness limits, just the wish to do something for yourself and enjoy every minute. Sometimes all it takes is an e-bike, a route, and the willingness to set off.
