Many Alpine destinations are working hard to be attractive for (active) cyclists not only in winter, but also in summer. You can see this in all kinds of developments, but especially in the provision of gravel cycling routes. One such example is Saalbach. In winter, it is part of Skicircus Saalbach-Hinterglemm-Leogang, with a huge range of slopes and entertainment. But in summer, gravel is evolving in Saalbach. There is plenty of entertainment to be found and not just on singletracks. That makes graveling in Saalbach a nice option in Austria.
MTB first
That Saalbach (and the whole region around it) is actually a MTB destination is also translated into the presence of 80km of trails, routes and several bike parks, including the (newly opened) bike park in Fieberbrun, the 'Bike Area Streuboden'. Opened in August 2021, you will find three trails, a flow trail and a real pumptrack in this bike park. Saalbach was also a great stop for the World Games of mountain biking in September 2021. The destination can rightly call itself Austria's 'biggest bike region'.
Gravel on the MTB routes?
It is often thought that MTB trails are also suitable for graveling. That can be a real disappointment when you go singletrack downhill. Then such a dropper is quite nice and also the steering ease of a good MTB is advisable. In Saalbach, fortunately, they have taken this into account. Graveling in Saalbach is then a nice option.
On the Saalbach site several gravel routes have been mapped out. However, you are immediately warned: these are not easy gravel routes that are presented to you here. The region is rightfully 'alpine gravel', which means above all: making a lot of altitude metres quickly. Benefit? Beautiful views and very photogenic. Graveling in Saalbach is therefore highly recommended
Gravel Devil - gravel route in Saalbach
If you want to take your first introductory tour of the area, the 'Gravel Devil' the lap par excellence. With 32 kilometres in length and 920 altitude metres, it is indeed straightforward. This gravel route is called Gravel Devil because the round leads to the Teufelsmeer. This lake is right at the top of the first climb of this introductory round and you can stop there for a nice snapshot, a visit to the chapel and enjoy the view. You can drink the water (because despite being diabolical water, it does not boil and is not toxic ;).
A fine descent back to the valley ensures you are nicely warmed up for the second climb to the Hochalm reservoir. This climb is a bit longer but here, too, a magnificent view over the lake towards the peaks beyond awaits. Then it's onward to the Rosswaldhutte to descend again via the mountain pasture.
Alternative gravel route - Gravel in Saalbach
If you don't want to rack up 1,000 altimeters straight away, you can also opt for the little devil gravel route to ride. That one is only 25 kilometres with over 500 altitude metres and still leads to the beautiful Hochalm reservoir. It's worth considering. Finally, do you want to spend longer on your bike than just 35 kilometres? Then go for the gravel route Dusty Ride, which presents 700 altimeters in almost 60 kilometres. The altimeters are mostly achieved on the last, tough climb, so keep some for the end.Still not enough? Then go for the 'Extreme Scream' - 'screaming brunnen'. A stunning 100-kilometre gravel route around Saalbach via St Martin, Fieberbrunn and Saalfelden. You get another tough final climb here, and you end up riding over 1,300 altimeters. Pure enjoyment.
In development
The gravel destination Saalbach is definitely still developing, but with the current offerings, it is definitely worth checking out. And what is of course cool is that you can also hire an (e)-mtb for a day and then work on your skills in the bike park. Digging in Saalbach is, as far as we are concerned, a must in the wide range of Austrian destinations.
More info on the region, gravel in Saalbach, stays and events: www.saalbach.com
Practical
Saalbach is about 1,000 kilometres from Utrecht. The best way to get to Saalbach is by car. Because it is a major winter sports destination, you will have little trouble finding a good hotel that also has room for bike storage. Those ski cellars will come in handy after all.
It is also possible to get there by train in the right direction. With the Nightjet and with the possibility of getting to Saalbach from Innsbruck and/or Salzburg.
Not staying in Saalbach, but want to stay in a real cycling hotel? Then consider Sportchalet Viehhofen. Read our story: Basecamp Holland: Sportchalet Viehhofen.
