Salzburg - Genneralm Gravel Tour

This tour is considered difficult and strenuous, requiring a good level of fitness and advanced riding skills. You'll encounter long, sustained climbs, including steep ramps, especially through the wild Ackersbach Valley on the way to Genneralm. Some sections may even require pushing your bike.

The route features diverse terrain, primarily gravel roads, but also includes sections of asphalt, dirt roads, and forested trails like the Ameiseggwald Trail. A significant part of the gravel experience is on the old Postalm road, which is now closed to car traffic, offering a peaceful ride.

You'll be treated to fantastic panoramic views throughout the tour. Expect vistas of prominent peaks like Gennerhorn, Hohem Zinken, and Hochwieskopf. As you ascend, enjoy expansive views down to Seewald Lake, and the majestic Dachstein massif, including its famous Bischofsmütze peak. The journey also passes waterfalls, deep ravines, and rustic mountain chalets.

The tour often starts from Abtenau. You can find parking there. For public transport, buses from Golling-Abtenau train station are available, and some services allow bicycle transport, making it convenient to reach the starting point.

While dogs are generally allowed on many trails in the region, it's crucial to keep them on a leash, especially in alpine pastures where livestock graze. Given the tour's length and difficulty, ensure your dog is fit enough for such a strenuous ride, and always carry enough water for both of you.

The best time for this gravel tour is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally favorable, and the alpine huts are open. Winter conditions can make the route impassable due to snow and ice, and some sections may be closed.

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle this route in the Salzkammergut Mountains. However, always respect private property, follow local regulations, and be mindful of any signage, especially when passing through managed alpine areas.

Yes, particularly on the Genneralm and Postalm sections, you'll find numerous staffed alpine huts (Almen). These offer a great opportunity to stop for refreshments, enjoy traditional alpine snacks, and take in the panoramic views, providing an authentic Austrian mountain experience.

Yes, this route intersects with several other paths. Notably, it covers significant sections of the official 'Graveltour Salzburg - Genneralm' and also includes parts of the 'Salzburger Almentour' and the 'EuroVelo 7 - Sun Route - part Austria'. You'll also find it briefly touches the 'Tauernradweg'.

Given the tour's difficulty and length, essential items include a well-maintained gravel bike, appropriate cycling gear, plenty of water and snacks, a repair kit, first-aid supplies, and navigation tools. Weather in the mountains can change quickly, so pack layers, including rain gear, even on sunny days.

Yes, the Salzburg - Genneralm Gravel Tour is frequently combined with the Postalm, Austria's largest contiguous alpine area. This combination significantly extends the ride, adding to its epic scale and scenic grandeur, and is often considered the 'parade gravel tour' of the Tennengau region.