**This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase using the links in this article, I might earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Please see my full disclosure for further information.
Indisputably one of the easiest and most scenic bike trails in the Dolomites, the Dobbiaco Lienz path is a simple MUST when visiting the Puster Valley of the South Tyrol. The 46-kilometer bike path is almost entirely downhill, making it a most relaxing bike ride suitable for all ages!
And don’t worry about having to cycle back! You’ll take the train back, returning your rental bike(s) directly in Lienz (or transporting them back via train – more info on this below).
Post Contents
Scenery on the Path – Beautiful Bike Trail in the Dolomites
Starting in Italy and ending in Austria, the Dobbiaco-San Candido-Lienz cycling route will lead you through 2 different countries with a most magnificent and varying scenery accompanying you along the way!
- Following along the rippling Drava River, you’ll initially pedal through lush green pastures, passing by charming steepled churches and amiable grazing cows.
- There are countless photo opportunities along the bike trail and numerous alpine towns you can stop in for a well-deserved rest… (ahem, did I mention there is also a chocolate factory along the way?? – more on this below!)
- As the bike trail proceeds, it slowly narrows into an enchanting spruce forest before ending in the pleasant town of Lienz, Austria!
Clearly marked and easy as pie to navigate, you do not want to miss this leisureful and family-friendly cycling path in the Dolomites!
Having biked the San Candido – Lienz trail countless times (with and without kids), I have devised this foolproof guide to cycling the trail. From mistakes to avoid, to practical tips on bike rental and journeying back via train, this post exhausts any questions you might encounter while planning your cycling tour through the Upper Puster Valley (Alta Pusteria in Italian, Hochpustertal in German).
Please Note: the entire Drava cycling route (Ciclabile della Drava / Pustertal Bike Path) actually spans 4 countries – Italy, Austria, Slovenia, and Croatia! This post only covers the most popular section of the bike trail that spans from Dobbiaco, Italy (in the South Tyrol) to Lienz, Austria (in the East Tyrol.)
Map – Pustertal Cycle Path (Dobbiaco to Lienz)
Here below you’ll find a map of the actual cycling route we completed from San Candido to Lienz (with elevation and course details) as tracked by our Garmin watch (we just purchased it and love it!). The route is marginally longer if departing from Dobbiaco, running at a total of 46 km as opposed to 43 km. (If you’re wondering whether you should start the bike trail in Dobbiaco or San Candido, I cover that in this section!)
Where to Park: Dobbiaco or San Candido Train Stations (depends where you decide to start)
Bike Path Difficulty: Easy (All Downhill)
Trail: Point to Point (take the train back)
Duration: Full Day Activity
When to go? June – September
Suitable for Children? Yes
Best Base Towns: Dobbiaco, San Candido
The overall elevation loss is roughly 500 meters (subtracting ascent from descent); however, it’s around 600 meters elevation loss if departing from Dobbiaco. Doesn’t really matter given it’s all downhill.
I’ve inserted several points of interest along the path you could potentially make a stop at. In the next section I briefly give a description of each point and then subsequently include a sample itinerary I’ve personally undertaken and loved!
Optional Stops Along the Dobbiaco Lienz Bike Trail
1 – Dobbiaco Town (starting point if departing from Dobbiaco)
Dobbiaco town itself is a quaint little village full of restaurants, hotels, and bakeries. You most likely will be stopping in Dobbiaco (Toblach in German) for a meal or groceries anyway, so I wouldn’t tour it as part of this bike tour.
2 – San Candido Town (starting point if departing from San Candido)
San Candido (Innichen in German) is similar to Dobbiaco; it’s a picturesque town full of delicious bakeries, charming little chapels and squares. You could stop and walk around the downtown or even potentially head to the Baranci Fun Bob (longest mountain coaster toboggan in the South Tyrol). However, to not take time away from this bike tour, I don’t recommend inserting this as a stop. Rather, to sight-see you can come back another day or after you’ve completed the bike tour.
3 – Wichtelpark Sillian (playground & adventure park for kids)
This free playground offers slides, tree houses, ziplines and swings! There are many tables you can picnic at or have a snack. For older kids, there is a miniature golf course and high ropes course (accessible for a fee). The park is located right on the bike path just before reaching the town of Sillian.
4 – Loacker World of Goodness (Loacker chocolate factory & shops)
A favorite amongst sweet-tooths, the famous Loacker factory makes a great dessert stop! You can browse hundreds of products in their brand store or even book a one-hour Pastry Workshop! Workshops are held in English or German and walk you through making your very own wafer/treat! Make sure to book ahead of time as spots can sell out months in advance!
5 – Vitalpinum Wellness Center (sensorial garden & essential oils)
If you’re interested in aromatherapy, Vitalpinum offers bountiful knowledge on the benefits of alpine herbs! Take part in their immersive experience in the sensory garden and learn about the therapeutic properties of essential oils. There is a great shop as well where you can browse different products for the perfect alpine gift (Admission is via paid ticket.)
6 – Dolomitenbad Lienz (outdoor pool & small waterpark for kids and adults)
Dolomitenbad Outdoor Pool is hands down the most popular spot along the San Candido bike trail! Soak in one of their 4 outdoor pools, have fun playing beach volleyball, or adventure down one of their waterslides and tunnels. Both adults and kids will recharge and have so much fun! You can either bring your own food and picnic or purchase food à la carte or via buffet! (Make sure to check opening season before going– outdoor season generally starts the first week of June and ends early September!)
7 – Lienz Town (trail end)
Before heading back to the train station and ending your tour, you can walk a mere 2 minutes from Lienz train station to the town’s main square Hauptplatz and unwind with an aperol spritz (kids can get a gelato!). Unfortunately, there probably won’t be much time left to explore anything further around Lienz, but the main square is already a fun highlight!
Sample Itinerary from Dobbiaco to Lienz
The following is an itinerary we’ve done several times both with and without kids. We’ve found that the Loacker factory and waterpark/pool tend to be the most appreciated stops by both adults and kids.
You can easily customize these times/durations to fit your pace (this itinerary follows a pretty relaxed pace).
9:15 – Start Bike Trail
10:45 – 11:45 – Loacker Chocolate World
13:30 – 16:00 – Waterpark + Lunch (picnic or order food)
16:10 – Return bikes at Lienz Papin
16:20 – Buy return tickets at Lienz Train Station
16:30 – 17:30 – Lounge/walk around Lienz main square (aperitivo or gelato)
17:50 – Train back to Dobbiaco
18:55 – Arrival in Dobbiaco
*TIP! – Leave most of your eating/lunch towards the end of the bike trail to not have a lot of cycling left after having eaten. This means you should avoid eating too much at Loacker and have lunch directly at the pool. Given its position a mere 5 minutes from the end of the trail, the pool is the perfect place to eat at!
Planning your Cycling Journey from Dobbiaco to Lienz
So now that you’ve gotten an idea of the amazing scenery you’ll witness, let’s get into all the organizational details of planning your bike ride!
To plan a stress-free bike day, here are some vital points and tips you should know when planning your bike tour:
Which direction is best for the Dobbiaco-San Candido-Lienz bike path?
Make sure you START in Dobbiaco or San Candido and END in Lienz. DO NOT do this trail in the opposite direction (Lienz to Dobbiaco). The path in this opposite direction is almost entirely UPHILL, and as a result, quite strenuous and lengthy!
How much time does it take to cycle the San Candido Lienz Bike Route?
Depending on how many stops you plan to take, the time can vary greatly.
With NO STOPS the entire bike route (from both Dobbiaco or San Candido) should take roughly 3.5-4 hrs (at a normal/relaxed pace). However, I don’t recommend this! As discussed above, there are many stops you can enjoy along the path!
I recommend allotting an entire day to the San Candido Lienz bike path. We usually take the entire day and make a couple stops plus have lunch along the way.
Should you start the trail in Dobbiaco or San Candido?
Whether you start in Dobbiaco or San Candido doesn’t make much difference. We’ve done both and if I had to mention one difference, there is more available car parking at the Dobbiaco Train station as opposed to the San Candido Train Station.
To avoid parking issues (especially during peak season), starting in Dobbiaco could be preferable.
How do you get to the bike trail?
If starting from Dobbiaco town, the trail starts from the Dobbiaco Train Station. From the station you’ll follow the signage that accompanies you all the way to Lienz. Park your car in the station parking lot.
If starting from San Candido town, the trail starts from the San Candido Train Station. From the station you’ll follow the signage that accompanies you all the way to Lienz. Park your car in the station parking lot.
Renting your bike for the San Candido Bike Trail
Whichever town you decide to start your cycling tour in (Dobbiaco or San Candido), the best place to rent your bike is Papin Sport Rent a Bike. Pick-up is directly on the trail, with the option to either drop-off directly in Lienz or to bring back via train to original pick-up spot (see train section for more information on this).
You’ll find a rental shop directly on the trail both at the Dobbiaco Train station and at the San Candido Train station. From here, all you have to do is mount your bike and start pedaling – you’re already on the trail!
Drop-Off Options – Should you return bike(s) in Lienz or bring back via train?
It’s your call but I HIGHLY suggest dropping bikes off in Lienz and returning home ‘hands-free’. This allows you to have a hassle-free train ride back (it can get really crowded peak season) and will also allow you more time in Lienz (without having to rush back on the train to return bikes). Also, it’s more enjoyable to explore Lienz without having to park and lock bikes! In my opinion, the few extra euro for dropping off in Lienz are well worth it!
FAQ Bicycle Booking and Rental
Here below I go over some of the most common questions I get when cycling this bike trail in the Dolomites:
Do I need to rent an electric bike for the Dobbiaco Lienz bike path?
No! Because the path is almost entirely downhill (in the direction Dobbiaco to Lienz), an electric bike is not necessary. A normal city bike (with gears) is sufficient for completing the bike trail.
If you wish however, Papin offers numerous other rental options as well; from electric mountain bikes for adults, to tandem bikes and trailer/seats for small children, there are dozens of options available for both adults and children.
What if I pop a tire, or my bike breaks on the Dobbiaco Lienz Bike Path?
Don’t panic! Papin bikes provides technical service along the entire Dobbiaco Lienz bike route. So, if your tire pops, your chain breaks, or your bicycle malfunctions in any way, you can call the service line and a Papin representative will come to the rescue! They will meet you on the path and either repair the issue onsite or bring a replacement bike (they brought us a new bike one time when one of our bike chains was malfunctioning!).
Do I need to reserve or book my bike(s) ahead of time?
In peak season (July-August) it is a good idea to call or visit in person the Papin desk in Dobbiaco or San Candido a couple days in advance to reserve your bikes. *Please be patient as German and/or Italian are the primary languages spoken in the Val Pusteria.*
Information to Have Before Starting the San Candido Trail
The front desk should hand you a brochure that includes some of the information I discuss below. Make sure you have answers to ALL of these questions before heading out.
- Ask for their technical assistance number to call in case you have technical issues on the trail (as noted above)
- Ask what time their office in Lienz closes– in other words, what time should you return your bike by? (If bringing bike back on train, ask for closing times of office you will be dropping off your bike at)
- Ask to have a schedule/timetable of the trains departing from Lienz back to San Candido/Dobbiaco. Make a note of the last train back- you don’t want to be left stranded!
- Ask what to do if you arrive late and the rental shop has already closed for drop-off.
Bike Trail Signage on the Drava Cycling Route (Dobbiaco – Lienz Path)
If you’re worried about getting lost, you’ll be pleased to know that signage along the path is very clear!
You’ll most frequently encounter colored signs (usually brown or green) with a bicycle icon, while other times you’ll find ground markings of painted arrows or lines.
When approaching Lienz (at the very end of the trail once you’ve passed the Dolomitenbad pool), follow the painted lines on the asphalt to be guided back to Papin Rent a Bike (Lienz) directly adjacent the Lienz train station.
Return Journey – Train Ride Back & Bike Return
Once you’re in Lienz, returning your bike and/or returning via train should be rather straightforward. Nevertheless, to avoid any confusion, here are some key points that might help you navigate the whole process:
Where Can you Buy Train Tickets?
You can purchase train tickets directly at the Lienz Train station at the counter/desk or via their self-service ticket machines onsite. Alternatively, you can also purchase single-fare tickets directly on-board from the train conductor at an additional cost of 5 euro (only valid for regional trains).
How long does the return journey from Lienz take?
Lienz – San Candido: 1 hr. (9 stops via regional train that goes to Franzensfeste–Fortezza)
Lienz – Dobbiaco: 1 hr. 5’ (10 stops via regional train that goes to Franzensfeste-Fortezza)
*If on-board announcement system is down, don’t panic – you can still figure out when to get off! You can ask the conductor, ask another passenger (most passengers in peak season are cyclists coming back from Lienz just like you), can check the station-name from the train window or even count the stops. If you get confused in any way, know that the train conductor is there to assist you and is more than happy to help!
What do you do if you miss the train?
There are trains running every hour until generally 7-8pm (depending on the season). Up until that time, if you miss the train, you can always catch the ride after. After the last train, you WILL get stranded in Lienz (sorry to be dramatic!)
Please be mindful of the last train of the day! Make sure you ask Papin Bikes for an updated timetable or check this website for departing train hours.
Can you return bikes to Papin after closing hours?
There are instructions as to how to return bikes after closing hours (I’ve never done this). However, you need a bicycle lock (which you would have had to rent) in order to follow the process.
PLEASE ask the staff before heading out if it is possible to return bikes after closing hours. If possible, ask them for detailed instructions (and respect them!).
Other FAQ when Cycling the Dobbiaco San Candido Lienz Bike Trail
Here are a couple other pointers to help you avoid any hiccups while on the bike trail:
What age can kids safely complete the Dobbiaco Lienz cycle path?
I’ve seen kids of all ages (my nieces and nephews included) on the bike path. From my experience, this is what I would recommend:
- 0-12 months – Not suitable/Not recommended
- 12 months to 7 years – depending on age, rent a bike trailer, child seat, or tandem bike (kids at this age should not complete bike path on their own separate bike). You can rent all these “attachables” and accessories at Papin Rent a Bike.
- 7+ years – can complete path on their own separate bike (obviously for those that know how to ride a bike without training wheels).
What Should you do if it Starts Raining?
Before choosing which day to do the San Candido Lienz bike trail, you should first and foremost check the weather to avoid days that forecast rain. (We always use the free app Windy to check wind speed/direction and precipitation estimates – Android | Apple). Nevertheless, sometimes rain can unexpectedly occur even when it is not in the forecast.
In these cases, suit up into your rain gear and find the nearest restaurant/roof/canopy that offers shelter from the rain. Observe the clouds and wind, and as soon as the sky seems to let up, cycle up to your next waypoint.
What to Pack & Wear When Cycling in the Dolomites
If you’re familiar with the mountains, you’ll know that rain is never too far away. Even if not in the forecast, you should always have rain gear and warm clothing in your backpack just in case. Here are a few crucial things you should have with you when biking in the Dolomites:
1. Fleece Jacket – Temperatures can turn rather quickly! Make sure you have a nice zip-up fleece jacket you can bundle up in.
2. Windbreaker – wind can quite suddenly pick up and it can honestly make the rest of your ride miserable. Be prepared with a good rain resistant wind jacket just in case!
3. Poncho – you don’t want to get caught in a downpour and get soaked down to your very socks. Always keep a packable poncho handy when in the Dolomites!
4. Padded Bike Shorts – I know this might sound exaggerating, but you might want to think about padded bike shorts. Even if you rent an electric bike, you WILL feel the sting on that booty towards the end of the trail! (Padded bike shorts are an absolute MUST if you’re planning on doing multiple bike trails in the Dolomites – they will save your life!)
5. Bathing Suit (optional) – if you plan on heading to the pool/waterpark on this trail make sure you don’t forget your bathing suit! (Don’t forget your towel too!)
6. Painkiller – you don’t want to get an unbearable headache and have to call it a day! Make sure you always carry some sort of painkiller for all those pesky aches that can arise.
7. Mini First Aid Kit – a compact and portable First Aid Kit is always a MUST for potential cuts and scrapes!
Best time to cycle the Dobbiaco-San Candido-Lienz Bike Trail
The best time for cycling the Dobbiaco-Lienz trail is Summer (June to September). Here below are a couple things to consider month by month:
- June: Not crowded, however if you plan on stopping at the outdoor pools along the path, they could still be closed in early June.
- July: Can be crowded, all pools and restaurants open.
- August: Crowded, train ride back can be very crowded.
- September: Not crowded, temperature can get a bit too cool mid/late September depending on year.
BEST: Mid/Late June
Rules to Follow when Cycling the San Candido Bike Trail
There are certain unspoken rules and safety regulations you MUST follow when cycling this trail. To avoid accidents or distress, please adhere to the following:
- Cycle in a single-file line. This allows others to pass you if they are cycling at a faster pace. DO NOT CYCLE SIDE BY SIDE.
- Always stay on the right side of the road and watch for oncoming traffic! There have been many accidents and head-on collisions of cyclists not paying attention (especially on curves).
- Cycle at a moderate pace. Remember that you can’t see what is behind a turning curve. To avoid colliding with reckless cyclists or small inexperienced kids, it is best to cycle at a gentle pace.
- If you stop, move your bikes to the side of the road. If you stop for a significant amount of time, move your bikes altogether off the road.
Where to stay near the Dobbiaco Lienz bike trail
The best towns to stay in are hands down Dobbiaco or San Candido. Both towns are central to top attractions of the Val Pusteria. In a mere 30 minutes you can reach the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Lago di Braies, Prato Piazza, and much more!
Down below are a few recommendations of places to stay according to budget. From this list we’ve only personally stayed in Residence Simml; however, we extensively research all accommodations and only ever recommend those we would book for ourselves as well!
Budget/Mid-range – Residence Simml & Schlosser San Candido
San Candido, One or Two-Bedroom Apartment
A fantastic option if you’re looking for your own apartment is Residence Simml & Schlosser. Located right in downtown San Candido, this residence is just a few minutes’ walk from any store you might need and only a brief drive from many highlights in the area (Lago di Braies, Sorapis, Tre Cime…etc). With a fully equipped kitchenette and beautiful wooden décor this, is a great cozy and convenient choice for extended stays. Plus, the spacious balconies are amazing – we loved having breakfast on the terrace!
High-range/Luxury – Naturhotel Leitlhof
San Candido, Hotel with Spa & Restaurant
With a state-of-the-art wellness center, complete with sauna, Turkish bath, hot tub, pools, and fitness center, Naturhotel Leiflhof knows how to pamper. Dine or have breakfast at their amazing Panorama restaurant or gawk at the stellar mountain views directly from your room – either way, this is one stay you will remember.
Luxury – Skyview Chalets am Camping Toblacher See
Dobbiaco Lake, Luxury Chalet
Nestled right up behind beautiful Lago di Dobbiaco, the adult-only luxury chalets at Camping Toblacher See have some of the most remarkable views! Choose whether you want mountain or lakefront views and enjoy the magnificent sauna and restaurant onsite… (guests rave about their exquisite breakfast!). Packed with outdoor amenities, you can choose to grill out at the barbeque facilities or even rent a bike – whichever the case, this is one stay filled with outdoor fun!
So, there it is guys…my complete guide to cycling the Dobbiaco Lienz bike trail! It’s the perfect “easy” day in the Dolomites to alternate with more strenuous activities and/or hikes! We hope you love this cross-border trail as much as we do– we try to include it every year in our annual mountain getaway!
If you have any further questions or would like to share your experience, please comment below, or get in contact! It is always my pleasure to help!
Don’t forget to follow along on my adventures at @ladolcefitvita…
Buona Biciclettata! Happy Cycling!
More Inspiration for your Trip to the Dolomites:
- Planning a Trip to the Dolomites – Essential Things you MUST Know!
- Tracing the Adolf Munkel Trail – Stunning and Easy Hike Along the Odle Mountains
- Breathtaking Lake Carezza – A Daytrip to the Rainbow Lake of the Dolomites
- Via Ferrata for First-Time Climbers – Stunning Iron Path to Gran Cir Peak!
- Hiking to the Edge of the World to the Gorgeous Seceda Ridgeline
Pin Me for Later!
This blog post is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. Please read my full disclosure for further information.
Leave a Reply