Road cycling in Carinthia The most beautiful road cycling routes around Lake Millstatt and the Nockberge Mountains

The Nockalmstraße in the Nockberge mountains around Bad Kleinkirchheim forms part of the Nockalmstraße Circuit and is one of the most challenging sections of the route in Carinthia. It is also one of the best-known mountain passes for road cyclists in Austria. Over a distance of around 32 kilometres, the Nockalmstraße presents road cyclists with a climb of up to 1,000 metres and gradients of up to 12%. 

The best time for road cycling tours and holidays in Carinthia is in spring and autumn. Around Lake Millstätter See, Lake Brennsee and Lake Maltschacher See, the season often starts as early as March. Pleasant temperatures and clear visibility mean you can enjoy long rides right through to October.

Flat road cycling routes can be found in the Drau Valley, just a few kilometres from Lake Millstatt. These gentle routes with minimal gradients are ideal for longer distances or as a contrast to the alpine climbs in the Nockberge Mountains.

Among the most scenic road cycling routes are the Nockalmstraße in the Nockberge Mountains and the routes around Lake Millstatt. Sweeping views of rolling peaks, lakeside landscapes and unspoilt countryside characterise the cycling experience between the lake and the mountains.

Key starting points for road cycling tours include Lake Millstätter See, Feld am See, Bad Kleinkirchheim and Lake Maltschacher See. From here, routes lead directly into the Nockberge mountains, into the Drau Valley or along the Carinthian Lakes Circuit.

The Nockalmstraße circuit around Bad Kleinkirchheim is one of the most challenging road cycling routes in Carinthia. Long climbs, consistent gradients and an elevation gain of around 2,000 metres make it one of the most physically demanding routes in the region.

The Millstätter See – Bad Kleinkirchheim – Nockberge region is the ideal starting point for round trips or multi-day tours. The routes link several lakes and regions and can be flexibly planned with cycle-friendly accommodation.