The Drau Cycle Path, or Drauradweg, runs from Toblach/Dobbiaco in Italy to Varaždin in Croatia, passing through Austria and Slovenia. Over roughly 510 kilometres, Alpine scenery gradually gives way to plains. Choosing individual stages lets you shape the length of the trip.
For an introduction, consider the roughly 40-kilometre section from Spittal an der Drau to Villach. It passes farmland and small villages, with the Renaissance Porcia Palace worth a stop at the starting point. Villach offers a base for a rest day and exploring the surrounding area.
Further east, beyond Dravograd, the river enters a narrower, wooded valley. Villages and castles punctuate the journey towards Maribor, where university-city streets and bridges await. The character differs from the open Austrian valley sections.
Before booking accommodation, match your chosen stage’s terrain, surface and daily distance to your experience. Check current diversions and your return journey; if taking a train, confirm bicycle carriage arrangements for that particular service.