The best traffic-free bike rides around Erlaufsee

There are 11 dedicated traffic-free touring cycling routes around Erlaufsee. These routes offer a range of difficulties, with 3 easy, 2 moderate, and 6 more challenging options to explore the beautiful landscape.

The best time for touring cycling around Erlaufsee is generally from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is pleasant, and the routes are clear. While winter offers unique activities like ice skating on the lake, most cycling routes are not suitable for touring bikes due to snow and ice.

Yes, Erlaufsee offers easy, traffic-free routes suitable for families. The path directly around Erlaufsee is a gentle 3.5-kilometer loop, perfect for all ages. For a slightly longer, easy option, consider the Erlaufsee – Café in the Old Railway Carriage loop from Mitterbach-Seerotte, which is just under 8 km and mostly flat.

The terrain around Erlaufsee varies. You'll find mostly paved sections, especially on the lake circular path and some connections to Mariazell. However, many routes also feature well-maintained gravel paths through forests and meadows, offering a diverse and scenic cycling experience. More challenging routes may include significant elevation changes and some unpaved sections.

Yes, many of the no-traffic touring cycling routes around Erlaufsee are designed as loops. For instance, the Erlaufsee Beach Snack Bar – Erlaufsee loop from Mariazell offers a scenic 20.8 km ride. There are also longer, more challenging loops like the Erlaufsee – Hubertussee loop from Mariazell, covering nearly 48 km.

Beyond the stunning Erlaufsee itself, which is known for its crystal-clear, drinking-quality water, you can explore other beautiful lakes like Hubertussee. The routes often wind through picturesque forests and green meadows, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Styrian Alps and Lower Austrian landscapes. The nearby pilgrimage site of Mariazell with its basilica is also a prominent landmark accessible via some cycling connections.

The region around Erlaufsee and Mariazell offers various options for refreshments and accommodation. You'll find cafes, restaurants, and inns in Mitterbach am Erlaufsee and Mariazell. Some routes, like the Hubertussee – Inn Zur Wuchtlwirtin loop from Mitterbach am Erlaufsee, even pass directly by establishments like the Inn Zur Wuchtlwirtin, providing convenient stops for a meal or a break.

Yes, Erlaufsee is accessible by public transport. The Mariazellerbahn narrow-gauge railway connects St. Pölten with Mariazell, with a stop in Mitterbach am Erlaufsee, which is very close to the lake. This allows for convenient access to the starting points of many cycling routes, making it easy to plan your tour without needing a car.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 230 reviews. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the tranquility of the traffic-free routes, and the diverse landscapes that range from serene lake shores to challenging mountain passes. The excellent water quality of Erlaufsee and the well-maintained paths are also frequently highlighted.

Absolutely. While Erlaufsee offers easy options, there are also several challenging routes for experienced touring cyclists. For example, the Inn Zur Wuchtlwirtin – Hubertussee - north shore loop from Mitterbach am Erlaufsee is a difficult 23.4 km route with over 500 meters of elevation gain. Longer tours like the 47.6 km Erlaufsee – Hubertussee loop from Mariazell also provide significant climbs and rewarding views.

Erlaufsee is a versatile outdoor destination. After your bike tour, you can enjoy swimming in the pristine lake, try stand-up paddling or pedal boating, or even go fishing with a valid license. There are also numerous hiking trails in the surrounding area, and scenic boat trips on the 'Ausflugsschiff Christina' offer a different perspective of the lake's beauty.