Austria
Austria by motorcycle: Gesäuse, lake country and Grüner See
An Austrian ride need not be built entirely around high passes. River valleys, national park landscapes and lakes can make a varied journey at a calmer pace. This route outline begins and ends in Vienna and passes Mariazell, Gesäuse, Steyr and the Salzkammergut area.
Five-stage route outline
- Vienna to Mariazell: Take a south-western approach through lower mountain country. The Piesting and Höllental areas offer possible scenic sections, depending on your chosen roads and conditions.
- Mariazell to Steyr: Ride toward Wildalpen and Gesäuse, following the Enns valley where road access permits. The national park landscape deserves time at designated stops.
- Steyr to the lake district: The Kalkalpen area and Hengstpass can lead toward the Salzkammergut lakes. Obertraun or Bad Aussee can be quieter bases for exploring the wider area than central Hallstatt.
- Lakes to Bruck an der Mur: Head east via the Enns valley. Grüner See is reached on foot from permitted parking; check current access and local visitor rules before travelling.
- Bruck an der Mur to Vienna: Return through the Rax-Schneeberg region or a more direct route if weather and energy call for it.
Protected areas may restrict where vehicles can go. In mountain regions, conditions and access can change even during the main riding season. Plan a flexible alternative for each longer stage and confirm current road information before departure.