Salisburghese in bici

The gateway from Hohe Tauern mountains to the Gurktaler Alps goes by several names: Katschberg, Katschbergpass or Katschberghöhe. Most motorized traffic goes through the tunnel, giving cyclists free reign over the scenic route via the Katschberg pass. Steep climbs and action-packed descents characterize this magnificent route on the border to .

North of the Salzach River lies the Dientener Sattel. It connects Dienten in the west with Mühlbach and Bischofshofen in the east. On the way across the mountain pass, you are presented with spectacular views of the Hochkönig mountain massif (2941 meters or 9649 ft). Prepare for a moderate ascent and a steep 15% descent from the Dientener Sattel.

At 3798 meters (12461 ft), the Grossglockner is Austria’s highest mountain and a must-see peak of the Eastern Alps. Cyclists everywhere love to fear the famous Grossglockner High Alpine Road, situated in the heart of the Hohe Tauern national park . There are two routes leading to Edelweissspitze, the highest point, starting from Bruck in Salzburg or from Heiligenblut in . Whichever one you take, the views from the “Roof of Austria” are bound to be unforgettable!

Filzensattel almost exclusively belongs to cyclists. The faster route for cars between the towns of Saalfelden and Lend is via Zell am See, which makes this less frequented pass an ideal route for bikes. Coming from the east, the climb to 1290 meters (4232 ft) is short but challenging at a gradient of 14 per cent. The reward is a leisurely descent down to Saalfelden.

Touring the Gerlospass by bike gives you bragging rights, for you are following in the footsteps of the racing greats. The Tour of , the Tour of and the Giro d’Italia have all been routed to include the 1531 meter (5023 ft) high pass. But the Pinzgau region of Salzburg also has plenty of alternatives to offer for those who prefer a gentler ride. Zellersee cycle path or the circular Steinberg-Runde, for example, are especially great for kids.