E-Mountain biking in Osttirol - discovering unspoiled nature among Austria’s highest peaks

Nestled amongst Austria's highest peaks, including the Großglockner, the Großvenediger as well as the Carnic Alps, Osttirol is a must-visit location for both mountain bike enthusiasts and nature lovers. Not only does the mountainous Tyrolean domain attract downhill riders with its two bike parks, but it also offers an exceptional outdoor experience with a Mediterranean flair and an unmatched amount of sunshine. It’s ideal for longer or shorter e-mountain bike rides with friends and family.

The region could be categorized as a cyclists' paradise; the setting is sublime. There are no less than 266 peaks above 3,000 meters which is why Osttirol is also known simply as "Berg Tirol” (Mountain Tyrol)! Over the years, the region south of the main ridge of the Alps has developed a strong awareness of nature, climate, and outdoor sports, especially mountain biking. The geography, topography and infrastructure of Osttirol are predestined for cycling excursions and especially for long rides on an e-mountain bike. "We have 600 kilometres of signposted bike paths, equipped with numerous stations for recharging the battery and carrying out minor repairs," comments Franz Theurl, head of the Osttirol tourism association.

For nature lovers, electric mountain biking is an opportunity to discover the exceptionally unspoiled mountain world, with its long steep valleys. Not to mention the Hohen Tauern National Park, home to 10,000 species of animals and 1,500 different plants. As the region is mostly protected from mass tourism, it offers a rare quietness not often found nowadays. With an endless variety of trails and mapped out paths, there is something suitable for everyone, no matter whether beginner or experienced.

"Our region is a dream for mountain biking. There are many trails that are not particularly difficult, but where you can let off steam and do something for your mental health. The area offers a lot of great and long mountain bike tours and we have so many huts and cabins where you can take a rest. I have an e-mountain bike myself and I find it extremely fun to ride! I usually ride it on tours where only a few people can spot or recognize me", says Osttirol native and former junior road world champion Felix Gall, who is currently riding the Giro d'Italia.

Closely working together with their regional partners, especially the hotels, cabins and restaurants, Osttirol underline its dedication towards e-mountain biking, investing heavily into the sport by, for example, installing and maintaining a wide network of charging stations along with the various tours. “E-biking allows everyone, even older people, to see the region on the byways. For us, it was particularly important to create and offer the right infrastructure”, comments Franz Theurl. For those seeking a real e-bike adventure, it’s possible to combine Alpine mountains with seaside rides within one weekend: Lienz, the capital of Osttirol is only about 180 kilometres away from Grado at the Adriatic Sea.

More current news, dates and information about the E-Bike destination Osttirol can be found here. Information on the bike region is available at www.osttirol.com/en/discover-and-experience/summer/cycling. Their interactive bike map provides you with a great overview and helps you with planning your next tour.