Dobratsch Ridge-Ride

Dobratsch

The Dobratsch, Villach's local mountain, first has to be climbed with what feels like an eternal ascent, and then circled down on a challenging and technical trail.

Description

The route starts at Villach Warmbad. Starting somewhat inconspicuously at a traffic circle, the route then passes the Warmbad-Judendorf. The Maibachl is the first highlight here. With sufficient rainfall and in spring, the almost 30 degree warm, bubbling water from the ground is a real experience. Past here, the route continues to the Villach Alpine Road. A seemingly eternal asphalt road winds its way to the Rosstratte parking lot. On the uphill you are rewarded time and again with magnificent views, but you have to fight your way up meter by meter. The uphill changes at Rosstratte. The gravel road is extremely steep and challenging in places up to the summit of the Dobratsch. The former ski area has been closed down and only the Dobratsch summit house, two chapels and a summit cross remain at the highest point. The view here is magnificent. The Karawanken, the Julian Alps, the Carnic Alps and the main Alpine ridge are clearly visible.

The single trail with difficulty level S3 begins at the ridge and remains at this level until you reach the forest section. S2 can be encountered in between, but you should be able to turn your bike to enjoy the trail. Through the entire basin, the trail is quite challenging up to an altitude of almost 1000 meters above sea level. After that, the trail becomes easier and easier and you surf down the forest ridge to Nötsch. From Nötsch, the cycle path along the Gail with its emerald-green pools and crystal-clear water takes you back to the starting point in Warmbad Villach. The train can also be used for the return journey from Nötsch to Villach (around 20 kilometers).

As the Dobratsch is a popular excursion destination for Carinthians, the tour should be tackled during the week and outside of the vacation season.

Note: The route is located on Austrian territory and leads over routes that are not approved for mountain bikers. Riding this route on a mountain bike is the responsibility of each individual, in full awareness of the legal situation.

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