Over Gravel, Hill and Dale: Gravel Biking in Tirol

Last updated on 05.05.2026

The crunch beneath your tyres, expansive views across alpine valleys and ever-changing terrain – gravel, hill and dale – gravel biking is more than a trend. It’s a way of life perfectly suited to Tirol. With the new “Bikepacking Tour Tirol”, this style of cycling now takes centre stage – and demonstrates why the province has long been a favourite destination for gravel enthusiasts.

A hybrid of mountain bike and road bike: the essence of gravel biking

Gravel bikes combine the best of both worlds: the speed and lightness of a road bike with the robustness of a mountain bike. Wider, treaded tyres provide grip on gravel tracks, forest trails and alpine service roads, while drop handlebars allow a wide range of riding positions – ideal for long days in the saddle.

That’s exactly where the appeal lies. Gravel riding is about discovery. Away from busy roads, it opens up new perspectives – on landscapes, regions, and the simple act of being on the move. Its versatility is particularly appealing: alongside alpine scenery of lakes and mountains, towns and villages naturally become part of the journey – whether for a quick coffee stop, an ice cream in the sun, or simply to soak up the local atmosphere. The result is a more holistic way of travelling, where nature and culture blend seamlessly. With light bikepacking gear, there’s space for spontaneity – where the journey itself becomes the destination.

It’s no coincidence that Tirol is at the forefront of this trend. According to the “Gravel-Monitor Germany 2024”, 63.9% of the gravel biking community associate Tirol with outstanding opportunities – a top score by Austrian standards. Internationally, Tirol also ranks highly, coming fifth in spontaneous responses to European gravel destinations. The combination of alpine terrain, well-developed infrastructure and varied landscapes makes Tirol an exceptionally diverse playground.

New perspectives: The Tirol Bikepacking Tour

From summer 2026, the newly developed “Bikepacking Tour Tirol” will, for the first time, bring the gravel experience together in a single continuous multi-day route. Depending on the variant, the journey takes four to six days from west to east – a spectacular ride from St. Anton am Arlberg through the Lechtal valley, past the foot of the Zugspitze, through the wild Karwendel mountains, alongside Lake Achensee and across the Brandenberg Alps to Kufstein.

Depending on the chosen route, riders can expect between 3,600 and 6,600 metres of elevation gain over distances of up to 413 kilometres. Challenging yet flexible: those seeking a more athletic experience can opt for the demanding main route, while leisure riders can choose more moderate sections. The tour combines alpine classics with quieter back routes, passing through a variety of landscapes – from high-alpine terrain and across two Tirol nature parks to gentler valley sections.

Even the journey fits seamlessly into the sustainable concept. Thanks to excellent rail connections and bike transport options, the start and finish points – as well as intermediate stages – are easily accessible by public transport. Alternatively, a wide range of local bike hire options is available.

Gravel riding across Tirol

Alongside the new Bikepacking Tour, Tirol also offers a wide range of regional gravel experiences. “Gravel. Tirol” in the Außerfern region is particularly impressive – a collaboration between four tourism regions (Lechtal, Reutte Nature Park region, Tannheimer Tal and the Tiroler Zugspitz Arena) along the German-Bavarian border. With 18 routes, over 1,000 kilometres of trails, more than 22,000 metres of elevation gain and over 60 bike-friendly accommodation providers, it is considered the largest interconnected gravel region in Tirol.

Other regions are also embracing the trend: Outdoorregion Imst offers diverse routes across demanding terrain. In the Kitzbühel Alps, gentle rolling landscapes meet striking mountain backdrops, complemented by excellent infrastructure. The Seefeld Region boasts a dense network of high-altitude routes, while the Kaiserwinkl Circuit impresses with its sporty character and scenic diversity spanning rivers and secluded valleys.

Quality certified infrastructure: Bett+Bike Tirol

In line with growing demand for gravel biking, Tirol has further developed its infrastructure. Since 2025, Tirol Werbung has promoted the internationally recognised ADFC quality standard through the ”Bett+Bike Tirol“ initiative. More than 110 certified accommodation providers are already tailored to the needs of cycling travellers.

These include secure bike storage, drying facilities for clothing, cycling-specific information and charging points for e-bikes. Whether staying for just one night or longer, guests are equally welcome. For more demanding riders, the “Bed+Bike Sport” category offers additional facilities, including workshop areas and specialised services.

More information about Gravel Biking in Tirol can be found at www.tyrol.com/activities/sport/cycling/gravel.