The Glemmtal Cycleway

As a commuter, I have driven the route between Maishofen and Saalbach well over 5,000 times. Once or twice, and in occasional fits of overflowing motivation, I have also ridden my mountain bike. Even when cyclists still had to ride on the road for a few kilometres, I discovered one or two features during my "bike commute" that I had previously passed thousands of times by car. The first ride along the new, continuous Glemmtal cycleway was a very special experience with even more new impressions.

Closing the gap in summer 2020

The Glemmtal cycleway section between Saalbach and Viehhofen had been ready for quite some time before the last gap between Viehhofen and Maishofen was finally closed in summer 2020. This "good thing" did not take a while for no reason:  In order to allow the Glemmtal cyckeway between Saalbach and Maishofen to run continuously and safely away from the L111 main road, rock material had to be removed and a subway built under the road. The wait was finally worth it because now the bike paradise of Saalbach Hinterglemm can also boast a really cool bike path running parallel to the river.

Along the asphalt or gravel cycleway between Maishofen and Saalbach Hinterglemm, there are several places you can stop and have a rest.  The rush of the River Saalach is always within earshot. You can use the Glemmtal cycleway as a fast connection between Saalbach Hinterglemm and the Tauern cycleway, or enjoy it in a really relaxed and leisurely way with the whole family.

From lake to lake or hopping into the lake?

Saalbach Hinterglemm is connected to the Tauern Cycle Path via the Glemmtal Cycleway. After the idyllic ride along the Saalach to Maishofen, touring bikers, road bikers, gravel bikers and families have opportunities in virtually every direction. A worthwhile destination in any way is Lake Zell, the north shore of which can be reached from Maishofen in a short time along various cycle path routes. The optional circular route around Lake Zell, which is about 12 km long, can be cycled without an ascent but is partly on the road on the eastern shore.

If you want to add a few kilometres, you can, for example, visit the Klammsee in Kaprun and/or the Ritzensee in Saalfelden. Both are lovely places to swim, although the Klammsee is more suited to those who are not sensitive to low temperatures ;). Both lakes can be reached on signposted cycle paths.

Would you like a little bit more?

For road bikers, gravel bikers or ambitious ( E-) mountain bikers, the Steinberg Circuit via Lofer, the Pillersee and Leogang is also an option. However, as the entire tour covers over 120 km, energy reserves should be planned for the return journey to Saalbach Hinterglemm. Remember that the Saalach flows downhill for about 250 metres on its way from Saalbach to Maishofen. Tip for particularly fit mountain bikers and gravel bikers: Before Hochfilzen, turn right via the Eiserne Hand and the Spielberghaus over the mountains back to Saalbach. Road cyclists are advised to take the asphalt route.

A multisport experience on the Glemmtal Cycleway

Between Vorderglemm and Saalbach, at the edge of the cycleway, you will find the 24 stations of the Motor Skills Path, which invite you to get off your bike and enjoy some multisport activities. The Motor Skills Path is a particular highlight not only for children but also for adults. The different stations test the endurance, coordination and skill of both young and older users.

Please note that the Saalach promenade in the local area is also very busy with hikers, walkers and families. Remember to adjust your speed accordingly and to look ahead so that nothing stands in the way of the peaceful coexistence of "two-wheelers" and "two-legged".