Bike tours away from any hustle and bustle

Tyrol and South Tyrol not only share a common history, but also offer a breathtaking backdrop for cycling trips on both sides of the Alps.
South Tyrol boasts 600 kilometers of cycling paths, while Tyrol exceeds the 900-kilometer mark. From simple routes for the whole family to extreme tracks for adventurers seeking a challenge, every level of difficulty can be found here.

The South Tyrolean Wine Road - which leads from Nals via Bolzano to Salurn - is the oldest wine road in Italy and offers excellent conditions not only for cycling. The taste buds of the cyclists also experience what it means to have a proper holiday here. Numerous wine cellars offer regional specialties and top wines of the region for tasting. With only slight inclines, the cycle path runs along the Adige, passes enchanting vineyards, and occasionally allows for a dip in one of the lakes in this region. Also crisscrossed by deserted side streets and signposted cycle routes are the Puster Valley, the Vinschgau, and the Überetsch.

If the journey to the cycling holiday is planned with public transport, it is advisable to rely on the "bikemobil card". The magnetic stripe card allows unlimited, nationwide use of buses and trains with the bike and is available for one day (24 EUR), 3 days (30 EUR), or 1 week (34 EUR) at train stations, at the tourist office, or at participating bike rental shops. (As of 2014)

Like South Tyrol, Tyrol also offers a well-developed network of paved paths that can be traveled with standard touring bikes. The Inn Cycle Path is one of the longest cycle routes in Europe, while the flat Drau Cycle Path is the ideal choice for families with children. Finally, you cycle in the footsteps of the ancient Romans on the Via Claudia Augusta, one of the most important Roman roads, whose construction dates back to the time of Emperor Augustus and where today, ancient Roman delicacies and wine rarities still tempt you to take a break.

In the Austrian railways, bicycle transport is possible on most trains. The offer ranges from a day ticket to a weekly ticket to a monthly ticket and is individually tailored to the distance to be covered. The Intercity Biking Card, in turn, allows (even cross-border) bicycle transport on Intercity trains at a fixed price.
Many local bus services transport bicycles free of charge - provided there is luggage space, a carrier at the rear, or a trailer.

• Cycling doesn't have to be a competition. Tailor the route to the weakest rider. It doesn't help anyone if one person can't keep up and the others have to spend their time waiting.
• Let your children ride ahead so you can always keep an eye on them.
• Memorize the route before setting off and plan stops for sightseeing and resting beforehand.
• A minimal repair kit includes a 13mm spanner, a tire lever, and a pump, as well as patching material or alternatively a spare tube. Disposable gloves are also not a bad idea if you don't want to get dirty hands while handling the chain.
• In addition to the essential helmet, always carry breathable rain protection with you.
• A scratch can happen quickly - and can be treated quickly if you have plasters, disinfectant, and bandages with you.
• A lot of effort requires a lot of fluids - in addition to isotonic drinks, lightly sweetened tea also works. It's best to avoid fruit juices - they could start to ferment.
• Muesli bars or energy gels provide fresh energy and necessary fiber. Bananas are also high in fiber but not as easy to digest for everyone.
• And finally: the temptation to start too quickly is often great. Use your energy strategically so you can keep going until the end.