The best traffic-free bike rides around Ferlacher Stausee

There are 6 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Ferlacher Stausee, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, perfect for enjoying the scenic Carinthian landscape without vehicle interference.

Yes, for an easy and relatively flat experience, consider the Kalmusbad on the Sattnitz – Chill Bank and Bathing Spot loop from Klagenfurt Hauptbahnhof. This route is about 15 km long with minimal elevation gain, ideal for a relaxed ride. Another easy option is the Landhaus Klagenfurt – Klagenfurt City Theatre loop from Klagenfurt Lend, offering a pleasant 33 km ride.

The terrain varies, offering a mix of flat lakeside paths and more challenging ascents into the surrounding hills. While many routes follow the tranquil shores of the reservoir and the Drau River, some, like the Ascent to Zell-Pfarre – Schaidasattel Pass Serpentine loop from Ferlach, include significant climbs, providing diverse experiences for road cyclists.

The best times for road cycling around Ferlacher Stausee are generally spring, summer, and early autumn. During these seasons, the weather is most favorable, and the natural scenery, from emerald-green waters to lush forests, is at its most vibrant. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Schaidasattel Pass Serpentine – Schaidasattel (Sedlo Šajda) loop from Ferlach offers a challenging circular ride with significant elevation, while the Kalmusbad on the Sattnitz – Chill Bank and Bathing Spot loop from Klagenfurt Hauptbahnhof provides an easier, flatter circular option.

The routes offer numerous scenic viewpoints of the Ferlacher Stausee, the Drau River, and the Karawanken mountains. You can also pass by historical sites like Hollenburg Castle, perched above the Drau, or see the impressive Ferlach Maria Rain hydroelectric power station and the Ferlach Dam.

Parking is generally available in and around Ferlach, as well as in nearby Klagenfurt, which serves as a starting point for some routes. Specific parking areas are often indicated near trailheads or popular access points to the Drau Cycle Path, which runs through the region.

Yes, the region is accessible by public transport. You can reach Ferlach or Klagenfurt by train or bus, and many routes start directly from these towns or are easily accessible from public transport stops. This allows cyclists to begin their no-traffic rides conveniently.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 470 reviews. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the routes, the stunning views of the reservoir and mountains, and the opportunity to cycle without vehicle traffic, making for a peaceful and immersive experience.

While the routes themselves are traffic-free, they often pass through or near towns like Ferlach or Klagenfurt, where you can find cafes, restaurants, and pubs. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for points of interest or refreshment stops along your chosen path.

Absolutely. Many routes around Ferlacher Stausee provide breathtaking views of the majestic Karawanken mountains, especially on the southern side of the reservoir. The elevated sections of routes like the Chill Bank and Bathing Spot – Kalmusbad on the Sattnitz loop from Klagenfurt West offer particularly expansive vistas of the range.