The best traffic-free bike rides around Ybbs an der Donau

Ybbs an der Donau offers over 60 dedicated traffic-free road cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy, flat rides along the river to more challenging tours through the Mostviertel region.

Yes, the region is ideal for easy and flat cycling. The Danube Cycle Path, which runs directly through Ybbs, offers gentle inclines and well-maintained surfaces perfect for leisurely rides. Additionally, sections of the Ybbstal Cycle Path, particularly the 55-kilometer stretch between Waidhofen an der Ybbs and Lunz am See, follow a former railway line, ensuring a flat and car-free experience.

For families, the flat and car-free sections of the Danube Cycle Path are highly recommended. The Ybbstal Cycle Path, especially the part built on the former railway line, is also excellent, offering a safe and scenic environment away from traffic. These paths provide a relaxed cycling experience suitable for all ages.

The terrain varies significantly. You'll find predominantly flat routes along the Danube and Ybbs rivers, perfect for relaxed cycling. Heading south into the Mostviertel, the landscape transitions to rolling hills and pear orchards, offering more undulating routes. Towards the Ybbstal Alps, you can find more challenging climbs in the foothills, though many traffic-free options remain in the valleys.

Yes, many routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the moderate route View of Maria Taferl – Main Square of Ybbs loop from Sankt Martin-Karlsbach offers a scenic circular tour. You can also combine sections of the Danube and Ybbstal Cycle Paths to create your own circular journeys.

You'll encounter diverse scenery, from the majestic Danube River and the picturesque Ybbs River Valley to the extensive pear orchards of the Mostviertel. Notable landmarks include the View of Persenbeug Castle and the Ybbs-Persenbeug Hydroelectric Power Plant. Further afield, you might pass by charming villages and traditional farm buildings.

The best time for road cycling in Ybbs an der Donau is typically from spring to autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and the landscapes are vibrant, especially in spring when the pear orchards are in bloom, and in autumn with the changing foliage.

While the primary focus is river cycling, the broader region offers access to lakes. The Ybbstal Cycle Path leads towards Lake Lunz, known for its beauty. Closer to Ybbs, you can find recreational areas like the Blindenmarkt Lakes (Auseen), which offer opportunities for relaxation and swimming.

The komoot community highly rates the cycling experience in Ybbs an der Donau, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained, traffic-free paths, the stunning views along the Danube and Ybbs rivers, and the diverse landscapes ranging from gentle orchards to more challenging hills. The accessibility and variety of routes are frequently highlighted.

While many traffic-free routes are gentle, experienced cyclists can find more challenging options by exploring the rolling hills of the Mostviertel region, particularly towards the alpine foothills. Routes like Hengstberg Scenic Road – St. Georgen am Ybbsfeld loop from Neumarkt an der Ybbs-Karlsbach offer significant elevation gain while still prioritizing scenic, low-traffic roads.

Ybbs an der Donau, being a popular cycling hub, offers various parking options. Many starting points along the Danube and Ybbstal Cycle Paths, especially in larger towns and villages, provide designated parking areas for cyclists. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival for specific parking instructions.

Yes, Ybbs an der Donau is well-connected by public transport, making it easy to access the cycling routes. The train station in Ybbs an der Donau provides direct access to the Danube Cycle Path, and regional buses often accommodate bicycles, allowing for flexible travel to various starting points along the Ybbstal Cycle Path and other routes.