Lech cycle path | Most beautiful cycling tours by Eurobike

244 kilometers

From Vorarlberg to Donauwörth

1 River - 3 Regions

From the Tyrolean Lech Valley through the Bavarian Alpine Foothills to the Swabian Danube Valley

Wild Alpine River

The Lech is one of the last free-flowing Alpine rivers in Europe

May - October

Best time to travel

2 Countries

Cycle from Austria to Germany

Route Overview

Medium

In western Austria and southern Bavaria, you can expect stunning views - whether of Formarinsee and the Rote Wand at the river’s source or of Neuschwanstein Castle near Füssen. The Lech Cycle Path stretches about 244 kilometers (152 miles) from its source in Vorarlberg to its mouth at the Danube in Rain near Augsburg. The route is mostly flat, with some climbs in the mountainous sections. This well-maintained and easy-to-ride cycle path offers a mix of breathtaking mountain scenery and the lively city life of Augsburg.

The Lech Cycle Path is excellently developed and very popular with all types of cyclists. The route is mostly flat, though some inclines will test your endurance. As the path descends from the mountains into the Alpine foothills, the cycling becomes easier. The trail primarily follows paved roads, with occasional gravel and dirt sections.

Cycling Bliss on Our Most Scenic Tours

All tours on the Lech Cycle Path

Cycling Bliss on Our Most Scenic Tours

All tours along the Lech Cycle Path

Questions and answers about the Lech Cycle Path

Where does the Lech Cycle Path start and end?

The Lech Cycle Path begins near the source of the river of the same name, situated at Lake Formarin in Vorarlberg. It concludes at the mouth of the Danube in Rain, Bavaria.

What time of year is optimal for cycling the Lech Cycle Path?

Late spring through fall, typically between May and October, offers the ideal window for a vacation on the Lech Cycle Path.

For which target group is the Lech Cycle Path suitable?

The Lech Cycle Path caters to cyclists of all skill levels, including families, recreational cyclists, and avid enthusiasts. The route offers a moderate level of difficulty, with a few manageable climbs along the way.

How long is the Lech Cycle Path and what’s the total elevation gain?

The Lech Cycle Path is about 244 kilometers long with a total ascent of around 1,600 to 1,800 meters, running mostly downhill from the Lech source at Formarinsee in Vorarlberg to its confluence with the Danube in Donauwörth.

Which hotels or accommodations are utilized for overnight stays along the Lech Cycle Path?

Well-maintained mid-range hotels and apartments serve as accommodations for your cycling vacation with Eurobike.

Which bike is best suited for the Lech Cycle Path?

The Lech Cycle Path is a well-developed and mostly paved cycle path. There are only a few sections with gravel and gravel paths. As the route is mostly flat and has only a few inclines, the unisex bike or the men's 21-speed bike from Eurobike are suitable. However, we recommend the rental bike plus.

How does the luggage transfer with Eurobike work?

Your luggage will be picked up directly from your accommodation between 8 and 9 a.m. and will be waiting for you at the next hotel in the evening (between 4 and 7 p.m.). This way, you can cycle in complete relaxation – with only a light daypack.

Person in turquoise shirt sitting on grassy hillside overlooking Formarinsee, a pristine mountain lake surrounded by green alpine meadows.

Panoramic view of an Alpine village nestled in green hills with traditional houses scattered across meadows, surrounded by forested mountains.

Three cyclists with panniers riding on paved path through green valley with snow-capped mountain peak and forested hills under blue sky.

Lechfall waterfall cascading over stepped concrete weir with tourists on viewing platform above, surrounded by lush green forest and mountains.

Three cyclists with touring bikes and panniers on a meadow with Neuschwanstein Castle visible on a forested hillside in the background.

Medieval gate tower in Schongau with white walls, arched passageway, and colorful religious fresco. Red flowers hang from the upper level.

The Most Beautiful Cities along the Lech Cycle Path

Lech am Arlberg – A Year-Round Alpine Gem

Nestled in the Austrian Alps, Lech am Arlberg is famed for its stunning winter landscapes and ski resorts. In summer, the slopes transform into scenic hiking and cycling trails. The lush Formarinsee and the historic “Grüner Ring” trail offer unforgettable nature experiences off the beaten path.

Lech am Arlberg village nestled in green Alpine valley with traditional buildings, church tower, and mountain peaks under blue sky.

Füssen – The Charming Town in the Allgäu

Füssen enchants with its mediaeval architecture and proximity to the royal castles. Alatsee, a hidden mountain lake, provides a serene escape, while the town’s historic center - with its narrow streets, mediaeval buildings, and the impressive castle overlooking the town - offers plenty to explore.

Baroque Heilig-Geist-Spitalkirche in Füssen with ornate red facade featuring religious frescoes and bell tower, surrounded by traditional buildings.

Landsberg am Lech – A Historic Riverside Town

Landsberg am Lech delights visitors with its old town and colourful mediaeval façades. The historic Karolinenplatz and the striking Church of Mariä Himmelfahrt provide a glimpse into the town’s rich cultural heritage. A stroll along the Lech is the perfect way to soak up the calm charm of this picturesque town.

Cobblestone pedestrian street in Landsberg with colorful historic buildings and a medieval tower gate. People walk and dine at outdoor cafes.

Augsburg – One of Germany’s Oldest Cities

Augsburg fascinates with its historic landmarks, including the Town Hall and the Fuggerei. The city’s canals reflect its rich history and offer scenic walking routes. Don’t miss the Schaezlerpalais, a splendid Baroque palace home to remarkable artworks and atmospheric historic rooms.

Cobblestone street in Augsburg's Fuggerei with yellow row houses covered in ivy, outdoor seating, and cyclists under blue sky.

The most scenic Stages of the Lech Cycle Path

Lech am Arlberg – Elbigenalp & Surroundings

Beginning at Formarinsee, the source of the Lech, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of this sparkling mountain lake. Cycle through idyllic farmland and blooming alpine meadows as you make your way via Warth to Steeg in Tyrol. Be sure to stop in Holzgau, where a detour is well worth it to admire the intricate Lüftlmalereien (traditional frescoes). This stage concludes after about 45 kilometers (28 miles) in the heart of the Lech Valley, renowned for its traditional woodcarving.

Elbigenalp & Surroundings – Füssen/Schwangau

On the second stage, you’ll cover approximately 40–55 kilometers (25–34 miles). A first stop in Häselgehr lets you admire its magnificent parish church. Continue past the Lechzopf to Forchach, where a suspension bridge invites the adventurous and brave to cross. Crossing the border into Bavaria, you’ll arrive in Füssen, where the impressive Lechfall and the royal castles of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau await.

Schongau – Landsberg am Lech

From Schongau, cycle approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) to Landsberg am Lech. The former border fortress, with its walkable ramparts, tells stories of times past. Upon arriving in Landsberg, you’ll discover a picturesque old town center featuring the historic Town Hall and the Gothic Bayertor, all set within the romantically wild riverbed of the Lech.

Landsberg am Lech – Augsburg

The final stage takes you along an approximately 11-kilometer (7-mile) stretch of the best-preserved section of the famous Via Claudia through Kaufering. Continue past Königsbrunn and the historic Bavarian ducal town of Friedberg before reaching Augsburg, where the stage ends after about 50 kilometers (31 miles). Don’t miss the Fuggerei, one of the oldest still-inhabited social housing settlements in the world - a city within a city.

Why cycle along the Lech Cycle Path

AN AWARD-WINNING START

Formarinsee was named Austria’s Most Beautiful Place in 2015

PURE WILD ROMANCE

Follow the Lech, one of Europe’s last wild Alpine rivers

PICTURE-PERFECT MOMENTS

Capture unforgettable views at the royal castles of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau

RIVERSIDE CYCLING PATHS

Much of the route runs closely along the scenic Lech

APPLE STRUDEL & OBAZDA

Savor the flavors of traditional Austrian and Bavarian specialties

Adige Cycle Path: Your advantages with Eurobike

Individual Cycling Pleasure

Enjoy a perfectly organised cycling holiday that you can tailor to your own preferences: start your daily stage whenever you like, choose between the main route and alternative routes, linger at your favourite spots or discover exciting places – and cycle at your own pace in complete relaxation.

The most important facts at a glance

Coffee break for three cyclists in Bardolino with a view of Lake Garda

Luggage Transfer

Thanks to our luggage transfer service, you can cycle relaxed with only your day bag to your next accommodation, where your suitcases will already be waiting for you. Everything you need fits into the practical bike bags. Simply have your luggage ready in the morning and attach the luggage tags.

All information about the luggage transfer

Comfortable Accommodations

For an all-round enjoyable cycling holiday, Eurobike offers accommodation in personally selected establishments. Whether it's a charming country hotel or a cosy guesthouse, you can expect hospitality, a good breakfast and a relaxed start to your day's cycling.

More about our accommodations

Modern hotel room in Piran with wooden double bed, white linens, patterned throw, balcony doors, desk area, and coastal artwork on wall.

Our Rental Bicycles

We offer rental bikes for every taste: classic women's and men's bikes, modern e-bikes, gravel bikes and the sporty Rental Bike Plus. This means you will always find the right bike to make your individual trip comfortable, flexible and lots of fun.

All bicycles at a glance

Cyclists on the cycle path near Montforte in the Piedmont

Optional Return Transfer to the Starting Point

Even the most beautiful cycling tour must come to an end. On the last day, you will reach your destination with many new impressions. The return journey is usually made individually. You will find suitable options in your travel documents. For many tours, we also offer an optional return transfer for even more comfort.

Lech for the whole Family

Still looking for the perfect family holiday? The Lech Cycle Path, with its well-developed route and manageable daily stages, is ideal even for the little ones. Whether you bring your own bike or use perfectly maintained rental bikes, with child seats or FollowMe attachments, you’ll be fully equipped. Eurobike offers family-friendly hotels, convenient luggage transport, and detailed travel documents. Enjoy a flexible, relaxed getaway on two wheels – a family holiday to remember for years to come.