Many Alpine destinations are working hard to make them attractive not only in winter, but also in summer for (active) cyclists. This is evident in all kinds of developments, but especially in the range of gravity bike trails. One of those examples is Saalbach. In winter, it is part of the Skicircus Saalbach-Hinterglemm-Leogang, with a huge range of slopes and entertainment. But in summer, gravel in Saalbach is undergoing a development. There is plenty of entertainment to be found, and not only on single tracks. That makes gravel biking in Saalbach a nice option in Austria.
MTB first
That Saalbach (and the whole region around it) is actually a MTB destination This is also reflected in the presence of 80km of trails, routes and multiple bikeparks, including the (newly opened) bikepark in Fieberbrun, the ‘Bike Area Streuboden’. Opened in August 2021, this bikepark features three routes, a flow trail and a real pumptrack. Also, Saalbach was a nice stop for the World Games of mountain biking in September 2021. The destination can rightly be called the ‘largest bike region’ of Austria.
Gravel on the MTB routes?
It is often thought that MTB routes are also suitable for gravel biking. That can still be a bit of a challenge when you go downhill on singletrack. A dropper seat post is very useful in that case, and the handling of a good MTB is also recommended. In Saalbach, fortunately, they have taken that into account. Gravel biking in Saalbach is then a great option.
On the Saalbach site Several gravel routes have been mapped out. You are warned right away: these are not easy gravel routes that are being presented here. The region is rightly called ‘alpine gravel’, and that means above all: quickly getting a lot of altitude meters. The advantage? Beautiful views and very photogenic. Gravel in Saalbach is therefore highly recommended.
Gravel Devil – gravel route in Saalbach
If you want to take a tour of the area for the first time, then the ‘Gravel Devil’ The course is perfect for this kind of event. With a length of 32 kilometers and 920 meters of elevation gain, it is indeed a straight shot. This gravel route is called the Gravel Devil because the course leads to the Teufelsmeer pond. This pond is located right at the top of the first climb of this introductory round, and you can stop there for a nice photo, visit the chapel, and enjoy the view. You can drink the water (because despite being devil’s water, it doesn’t boil and is not toxic ;).
A nice descent back down to the valley ensures that you are nicely warmed up for the second climb to the Hochalm reservoir. This climb is a bit longer, but here too there is again a magnificent view over the lake towards the mountain peaks behind it. After that, it’s still a steep climb to the Rosswald Hut, where you can then go down again via the pond.
Alternative gravel route – Gravel in Saalbach
If you don't want to climb 1000 meters straight away, you can also choose to climb the Little devil Driving the gravel route. It’s only 25 kilometers long with over 500 meters of elevation gain and still leads to the beautiful Hochalm reservoir. It’s worth considering. If you want to spend longer on the bike than just 35 kilometers, go for the Dusty Ride gravel route, which offers 700 meters of elevation gain in almost 60 kilometers. The elevation gain is mainly gained on the last, steep climb, so save some for the end. If that’s not enough, go for the ‘Extreme Scream’ – ‘shouting springs’. A stunning gravel route around Saalbach of 100 kilometers via St. Martin, Fieberbrunn and Saalfelden. Here again, you’ll be faced with a tough final climb, and you’ll ultimately cover over 1300 meters of elevation gain. Pure enjoyment.
In development
The gravel destination Saalbach is certainly still under development, but with the current offerings it is definitely worth a visit. And what is naturally great is that you can also rent an e-MTB for a day to work on your skills at the bikepark. Gravel in Saalbach is in our opinion a must-see in the wide range of Austrian destinations.
More information about the region, gravel in Saalbach, accommodation and the events: www.saalbach.com
Practical
Saalbach is located about 1000 kilometers from Utrecht. The best way to get to Saalbach is by car. Since it is a major winter sports destination, you will have no trouble finding a good hotel that also has space for bike storage. Those ski storage facilities will come in handy after all.
In addition, it is also possible to get to the destination by train in the right direction. With the Nightjet and the possibility to go to Saalbach from Innsbruck and/or Salzburg.
If you don't stay in Saalbach but would like to stay in a real bike hotel, then consider Sportchalet Viehhofen. Read our story: Basecamp Holland: Sport Chalet Viehhofen.
Questions & tips
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