Cycling day trip from Villach to Venzone

Looking for an epic cycling adventure? This route takes you from Villach in Austria across the border to the charming Italian town of Venzone. Starting in Villach—a lively town on the Drava River, famous for its thermal spas and the mix of Austrian-Italian culture—you’ll immediately get a taste of the Alps as you climb out of the valley.

This 90km journey isn’t for the faint-hearted: expect a solid ascent of over 1500 meters, but also thrilling descents (more than 1800 meters!) with stunning mountain backdrops. The ride is mostly on smooth cycleways, weaving through peaceful villages, green valleys, and dramatic mountain passes. The majority is paved and asphalted, so your road bike will feel right at home, though be ready for occasional stretches of loose gravel.

Your destination, Venzone, is a medieval gem almost entirely rebuilt after a 1976 earthquake, with impressive stone walls and a real old-world vibe. Grab a gelato, then stroll under the iconic city gates—it’s a perfect place to kick back after such a rewarding ride!