The Val Pusteria cycling path is one of the most appreciated in the entire Alpine arc, and a short stretch is enough to understand why. It links the main villages of the valley, from Rio di Pusteria to Brunico and on to San Candido, on a route that is largely protected and gently graded, crossing meadows, forests and historic town centres with the Dolomites as a constant backdrop. It is designed to suit everyone: families with children, leisurely cycle tourists and anyone who simply wants to enjoy the scenery without excessive effort.
Its real strength is the combination with the Val Pusteria railway, equipped for bicycle transport: you can pedal in one direction and return by train, or take the train to skip the less interesting stretches. At San Candido the route connects to the Drava cycling path, which covers around 44 kilometres in an almost continuous gentle descent to Lienz in East Tyrol, across the Austrian border. Along the way there is no shortage of rest stops, farm restaurants and sights worth slowing down for, and from Lienz you return comfortably by train to San Candido.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Val Pusteria cycling path suitable for families?
Yes, it is one of the most family-friendly routes: it runs largely on a protected lane with gentle gradients and many rest stops between Rio di Pusteria, Brunico and San Candido.
Can you return by train with your bicycle?
Yes, the Val Pusteria train accommodates bikes, so you can pedal one way and return by rail. The same applies to those who continue on the Drava cycling path to Lienz.