Cycling day trip from Villach to Malborghetto Valbruna

Roll out from Villach, Carinthia’s laid‑back second city on the Drava, and hop onto the Alpe Adria cycle path. It’s mostly traffic‑free and smooth, with a steady alpine climb as the Karawanks and Julian Alps rise ahead. You’ll cross into Italy at Thörl‑Maglern/Coccau, then cruise toward Tarvisio on sections of converted railway with fun tunnels and airy bridges.

Expect about 44 km and roughly 800 m of ascent, with the high point around 840 m. Surfaces are mostly asphalt and very bike‑friendly, with a couple of short gravel bits. Pack lights for the tunnels and a wind layer for the cooler stretches.

Finish in Malborghetto Valbruna, a small, history‑rich commune in the Val Canale. Swing by the 17th‑century Palazzo Veneziano in Malborghetto, or detour into Valbruna for views up Val Saisera toward the Julian Alps. If you’re into old fortifications, Fort Hensel watches over the valley. Plenty of spots for an espresso or gelato before the ride back or onward.