Cycling in Kitzbühel: 5 Routes Every Road and Gravel Cyclist Should Know

Discover the most beautiful cycling- and gravel-Routes in Kitzbühel.

Cycling in Kitzbühel: 5 Routes Every Road and Gravel Cyclist Should Know

Kitzbühel transforms into a completely different destination in summer. Instead of snow groomers, the quiet hum of road bike tires fills the valley roads. Instead of ski bindings clicking into place, gravel tires roll across forest tracks. Anyone visiting Kitzbühel by bike will discover terrain that challenges world-class professional cyclists while remaining equally rewarding for ambitious recreational riders.

According to the regional tourism board, the Kitzbühel Alps offer more than 1,200 kilometers (745 miles) of routes for road and gravel bikes across every difficulty level. These five rides showcase the region's incredible diversity—from Austria's most legendary climb to relaxed scenic tours suitable for the whole family.

Why Kitzbühel Is a Must-Visit Destination for Road and Gravel Cyclists

Two Cycling Worlds in One Valley

Situated at approximately 780 meters (2,560 ft) above sea level, Kitzbühel is surrounded by the Kitzbühel Alps to the south and the Wilder Kaiser mountain range to the north. This unique location provides quick access to an impressive variety of riding terrain.

Those seeking challenging climbs will reach steep mountain passes within just a few kilometers. Riders looking for a more relaxed experience can follow scenic valley cycle paths along the Ache River. Gravel enthusiasts benefit from an extensive network of forest and alpine farm roads that were once used almost exclusively by hikers and local farmers.

Best Time to Visit

The main cycling season runs from May through October. Experienced riders often consider June and September the ideal months, as roads and trails are noticeably quieter while temperatures remain comfortable for long mountain climbs.

All five featured rides start and finish in the center of Kitzbühel, making trip planning exceptionally convenient.

The 5 Best Cycling Routes Around Kitzbühel at a Glance

#	Route	Distance	Elevation Gain	Difficulty	Surface
1	Kitzbüheler Horn	10.3 km	950 m	Difficult	Asphalt
2	Around Hohe Salve	57.5 km	545 m	Moderate	Asphalt / Gravel
3	Labalm Tour	39.4 km	577 m	Easy–Moderate	Asphalt / Gravel
4	Pass Thurn – Gerlos Pass Loop	Approx. 114–170 km	Approx. 1,150–2,000 m	Difficult	Asphalt
5	EPIC 360° Panorama Tour	60.6 km	1,773 m	Difficult	Gravel

Source: Kitzbühel Tourism, route data as of Summer 2026.

1. Kitzbüheler Horn – Austria's Steepest Cycling Climb

No climb in Austria enjoys a reputation quite like the Kitzbüheler Horn. Officially recognized as the country's steepest cycling mountain, it has hosted prestigious international hill climb races since 1971.

Route Overview and Key Statistics

The ride begins in the center of Kitzbühel and follows Römerweg to the original starting point, Höglern, at 791 meters (2,595 ft). From there, the real ascent begins toward the Alpenhaus at 1,670 meters (5,479 ft).

The climb covers:

• 7.1 km
• Average gradient: 12.5%
• Maximum gradient: 22.3%

The full route measures 10.3 kilometers with 950 meters of elevation gain.

Cyclists looking for an even bigger challenge can continue beyond the Alpenhaus, adding another 3 kilometers and 325 vertical meters to reach the summit at around 2,000 meters (6,560 ft).

Tips for the Climb

Maintaining a steady cadence is far more important than relying solely on power. After passing the toll station at 1,013 meters, the road repeatedly steepens, so conserving energy until reaching Goinger Alm at 1,424 meters is essential.

The final kilometer before the famous switchbacks leading to the Alpenhaus remains relentlessly steep, with gradients ranging between 16% and 22%.

During the descent, taking short breaks can help prevent overheating your wheel rims, particularly when using rim brakes.

A stop at the Alpenhaus at 1,670 meters is highly recommended for refreshments and spectacular panoramic views.

Best suited for: Road cyclists seeking a true bucket-list climb. The panoramic road is also rideable on a gravel bike, although the extreme gradients make it a demanding challenge.

Book your stay now and make conquering the Kitzbüheler Horn the highlight of your cycling holiday.

2. Around Hohe Salve – The Classic Scenic Loop

If you'd rather admire the Kitzbühel Alps from every angle than spend the entire day climbing them, this route is the perfect choice.

Route Overview and Key Statistics

This 57.5-kilometer loop circles the iconic Hohe Salve, one of Tyrol's most recognizable panoramic peaks, with 545 meters of climbing and an equal amount of descent.

The route combines quiet country roads with short sections of well-maintained gravel, making it equally suitable for road bikes and gravel bikes.

One of its defining features is the constantly changing scenery, with sweeping views of the Wilder Kaiser mountain range and the surrounding alpine valleys.

Unlike a route centered around one major climb, the elevation gain is spread evenly throughout the ride, creating a balanced and enjoyable day in the saddle.

This tour is ideal for cyclists who want to spend a full day exploring the landscape without tackling an extremely demanding mountain ascent.

Best suited for: Experienced recreational riders with a solid endurance base who want to combine scenic landscapes with enjoyable riding.

3. Labalm Tour – A Family-Friendly Training Ride

Not every ride has to push you to your limits. The Labalm Tour proves that an easier route can still offer plenty of character and rewarding alpine scenery.

Route Overview and Key Statistics

Starting in Kitzbühel, the route follows Schwarzseestraße past the picturesque Lake Schwarzsee and the Kitzbühel-Schwarzsee-Reith Golf Course before continuing to Kirchberg.

From there, riders enter the stunning Spertental Valley, passing through Aschau before tackling a short but steep final climb to Labalm, located at 1,264 meters (4,147 ft).

The complete route covers:

• 39.4 km
• 577 meters of elevation gain

A short section of the cycle path between Kitzbühel and Kirchberg is unpaved but remains easy to ride on both road and gravel bikes.

Families with children may enjoy taking a detour to the adventure playground and Kneipp water therapy area near Aschau.

For a well-earned break, the Labalm Mountain Hut offers traditional Tyrolean cuisine together with beautiful views across the lush and narrow Spertental Valley.

Best suited for: Families, beginners, and anyone looking for a relaxed training ride with a rewarding alpine finish. The route is equally enjoyable on a road bike, gravel bike, or e-bike.

4. Pass Thurn – Gerlos Pass Loop – The Ultimate Alpine Road Ride

For experienced road cyclists looking to spend an entire day climbing through the Alps, this route represents one of the region's greatest endurance challenges.

Route Overview and Key Statistics

The classic version starts in Kitzbühel before climbing via Jochberg to Pass Thurn, reaching an elevation of approximately 1,270–1,280 meters (4,170–4,200 ft).

From there, the route descends to Mittersill before continuing toward Zell am See, eventually returning to Kitzbühel via quieter secondary roads.

Depending on the chosen variation—including options starting from Saalfelden or incorporating Gerlos Pass—the total distance ranges from approximately:

• 114–170 km
• 1,150–2,000 meters of elevation gain

Although Pass Thurn itself is technically straightforward, with gradients typically between 3% and 8%, the overall distance demands excellent endurance, pacing, and nutrition management.

Cyclists looking for a shorter alternative can simply turn around in Mittersill and return over Pass Thurn to Kitzbühel, creating a ride of just over 30 kilometers each way.

Best suited for: Long-distance road cyclists with previous Alpine riding experience. Because the pass road carries significant traffic, weekdays generally offer a more enjoyable riding experience.

5. EPIC 360° Panorama Tour – The Queen of Kitzbühel's Gravel Routes

If you want to discover what your gravel bike is truly capable of, this is the region's most demanding off-road adventure.

Route Overview and Key Statistics

Beginning in Kitzbühel, the route heads through Kirchberg and Aschau, climbing high into the mountains toward Stangenjoch and Bruggeralm on an unforgettable panoramic circuit.

The route covers:

• 60.6 km
• 1,773 meters of climbing
• 1,778 meters of descent

Its highest point reaches 1,990 meters (6,529 ft) above sea level.

Most of the ride follows wide forest roads, although several short, exceptionally steep sections may require riders to dismount and push their bikes.

Kitzbühel Tourism officially classifies the route as difficult, both in terms of physical fitness and technical riding skills.

This is very much a full-day adventure and is recommended for experienced gravel and e-mountain bike riders rather than first-time visitors exploring the area.

Best suited for: Experienced gravel cyclists looking for a genuine alpine challenge on gravel roads and prepared to dedicate an entire day to the ride.

Book your room today and start your adventure directly from Schlosshotel Kitzbühel into the spectacular Kitzbühel Alps.

Road Bike or Gravel Bike: Which Bike Is Best for Each Route?

Not every route requires the same equipment. As a general rule:

Road Bike

• Kitzbüheler Horn
• Pass Thurn – Gerlos Pass Loop

Both routes are ridden almost entirely on paved roads and are best suited to a traditional road bike.

Road Bike or Gravel Bike

• Around Hohe Salve
• Labalm Tour

These routes combine smooth asphalt with short, well-maintained gravel sections, making them equally enjoyable on either a road bike or a gravel bike.

Gravel Bike or E-Mountain Bike

• EPIC 360° Panorama Tour

With its high proportion of forest roads and several steep sections, this route is best tackled on a gravel bike or e-MTB equipped with wider tires and lower gearing.

Practical Tips for Your Cycling Holiday in Kitzbühel

What to Bring

For all five routes, a helmet, weather-appropriate cycling apparel, reliable sun protection, and plenty of drinking water are essential, as refreshment stops can be limited on the mountain passes.

If you're riding the gravel routes, you should also carry:

• A multi-tool
• A spare inner tube
• A mini pump

Bike repair facilities are not available along the forest roads, so being self-sufficient is important.

Mountain Huts and Refreshment Stops

There are several excellent places to stop for food and drinks during your ride.

On the Kitzbüheler Horn, you'll find:

• Alpenhaus at 1,670 meters
• Gipfelhaus at 2,000 meters

The Labalm Tour naturally includes the welcoming Labalm Mountain Hut at 1,264 meters, while the Pass Thurnroute offers several traditional alpine inns along the pass road.

Getting There and Parking

All five routes begin in the center of Kitzbühel.

Convenient parking is available at:

• Pfarrau
• Schwarzsee
• Hahnenkamm

Guests staying in town can simply start riding directly from their hotel without worrying about parking or transporting their bikes.

Why Stay at Schlosshotel Kitzbühel for Your Cycling Holiday?

All five featured routes begin in the heart of Kitzbühel, just a few minutes from Schlosshotel Kitzbühel. Staying here means no long drives before or after your ride—you can simply enjoy breakfast, clip in, and start your adventure.

After demanding rides such as the Kitzbüheler Horn or the EPIC 360° Panorama Tour, the hotel's Momentum Spa is the perfect place to recover. The indoor and outdoor pools, sauna, and professional massage treatments help tired legs recover after a day in the mountains.

If you prefer a more relaxed activity on your recovery day, the hotel's private 9-hole Kaps Golf Course provides a peaceful alternative, while the fitness studio and outdoor yoga platform beneath the Kitzbüheler Horn offer additional training opportunities.

After your ride, unwind with dinner at Restaurant Streif and its terrace or enjoy Japanese cuisine at the Rozu Sushi Lounge before ending the evening with a drink on the panoramic bar terrace while reflecting on the day's adventure.

Traveling with your dog? The hotel features its own dog playground, while families can take advantage of the Kitzclubchildren's program if one parent wants to tackle one of the longer rides.

Enquire about your cycling holiday at Schlosshotel Kitzbühel today and combine unforgettable road or gravel cycling adventures with luxury, wellness, and exceptional alpine hospitality.

Key Takeaways

• The Kitzbühel Alps offer more than 1,200 kilometers (745 miles) of road cycling and gravel routes across every difficulty level.
• Kitzbüheler Horn is Austria's steepest cycling climb, with gradients reaching 22.3%, and has hosted international hill climb races since 1971.
• Around Hohe Salve and the Labalm Tour are ideal for both road bikes and gravel bikes, offering moderate elevation profiles and spectacular scenery.
• The Pass Thurn – Gerlos Pass Loop is the region's classic long-distance road ride, best suited to experienced cyclists with Alpine riding experience.
• The EPIC 360° Panorama Tour, featuring 1,773 meters of climbing over 60.6 kilometers, is the most demanding gravel route in the region.
• All five rides start in the center of Kitzbühel, just a short ride from Schlosshotel Kitzbühel.
• The best cycling season runs from May to October, with June and September offering particularly pleasant conditions thanks to milder temperatures and quieter roads.