Why Salzburg is the Perfect Destination for Your Cycling Holiday – Katharina’s Five Reasons

Salzburg is a true paradise for cyclists. Whether you want to explore the historic old town at a leisurely pace on a city bike or embark on challenging tours in the Salzkammergut, the city and its surroundings offer something for every level. As a native of Salzburg and the hotel director of Hotel zum Hirschen, I’d like to share five reasons why Salzburg and our hotel are the ideal starting points for your next cycling holiday.

1. Salzburg is the Perfect Starting Point for Cyclists

For me, the perfect city trip combines sightseeing, culinary delights, and activity – such as cycling. No other mode of transport provides the same combination of scenery, fresh air, and just the right pace to make a day an adventure, leaving you pleasantly tired and satisfied at night. Numerous tours in the surrounding area offer something for everyone, from relaxed rides along the Salzach River to challenging routes in the Salzkammergut. There is a perfect trail for every level here.

Starting directly from the Hirschen, you can follow the Salzach River all the way to picturesque Golling, passing through the town of Hallein, known for its salt mining and home to one of Austria’s best ice cream parlors – a perfect reward for tired legs. Getting lost is almost impossible, as you simply follow the river. In just two and a half hours, you’ll have seen more of Salzburg than many long-time visitors.

Another favorite route of mine leads into the Salzkammergut to Lake Mondsee and takes about three to four hours. The best reward? A refreshing swim in the cool waters.

And if you want to venture even further south, I highly recommend the Ciclovia Alpe-Adria – a 400-kilometer route that takes you across the Alps to Grado. Not only is it a breathtakingly beautiful ride, but it is also well signposted.

Whether you prefer a leisurely ride or a more challenging route, our reception team is happy to help you find the perfect itinerary.

2. Hotel zum Hirschen is the Perfect Home Base for Unforgettable Cycling Adventures

When designing our hotel, I placed special emphasis on catering to the needs of cyclists. A spacious, lockable, and ground-level bike storage room offers a secure place for your bicycle, while charging stations for e-bikes, maps, and tools provide everything you need for your next adventure.

Our bike-friendly credentials have been verified and certified by ADAC, the German Cycling Association, through the Bett+Bike seal. This also means that our hotel is listed in the Bett+Bike GPS database, which features accommodations specifically tailored for cyclists.

Traveling with your own bike is easy, thanks to the hassle-free bike transport option on trains. But even if you don’t have your own bike, you’re covered – we offer city bikes, mountain bikes, and children’s bikes for rent directly on-site.

Our location couldn’t be better – just a few minutes from the main train station and directly on the cycling paths along the Salzach. Many of the most beautiful tours into Salzburg’s surroundings start right here – ideal for your next ride!

3. Because Cycling and Sustainability Go Hand in Hand

Sustainability is at the heart of our philosophy. That’s why we chose a wood-hybrid construction for the hotel’s new building – an environmentally friendly approach that combines aesthetics with purpose. We run on 100% green electricity, and a large photovoltaic system powers the hotel. A geothermal system ensures sustainable heating and cooling.

True to the motto “Do good and talk about it,” we have had our sustainable practices certified by the Austrian Eco-Label. We are also currently working towards partial certification under the Austrian Organic Seal, as we already source most of our food from organic farming. One of my personal passions is serving only organically certified animal products. This commitment is reflected in the quality and taste of our food: Our breakfast is outstanding, and on warm days, it’s especially enjoyable in the garden.

4. Because the Hirschen is the Best Place to Relax After Your Ride

After a long day on the bike, proper recovery is essential. Our wellness area features two saunas, an infrared cabin, and a relaxation room where you can unwind. If you still have energy left, our yoga and fitness room awaits. If you’re too tired to go out for dinner, our vegetarian restaurant, furo, will delight you. On warm evenings, you can dine outdoors in the garden. Finally, an incredibly cozy bed awaits to ensure sweet dreams.

5. Hirschen Joyful Cycling Club – Your Cycling Community in Salzburg

At the Hirschen, you’ll naturally meet fellow cyclists – at breakfast, in the garden, or at the reception. Conversations spark about the best routes, new discoveries, and shared passions. That’s exactly why we founded the Hirschen Joyful Cycling Club: a community for everyone who wants to experience Salzburg on two wheels.

Here, we share tips on the most beautiful tours around the city, recommend bike paths for every level, and reveal our favorite stops along the way. Club members can look forward to exclusive perks – from a complimentary coffee after a ride to special offers and first-hand insider knowledge.

Whether you’re a leisurely rider or a mountain biking enthusiast – the Hirschen Joyful Cycling Club welcomes everyone who finds joy in cycling.