Pielachtal cycle path

The Pielach river has carved its way over millennia, shaping an incomparable pre-Alpine valley. It springs near Schwarzenbach, right in the impressive Mostviertel mountain world, bubbling lively down into the land of gentle hills where it becomes wider and calmer. After its 70-kilometre journey, it flows into the Danube near Melk. Two kilometres west, directly in Melk, the Pielachtal cycle path begins, which leisurely and without major elevation changes opens up the romantic spots of the lower and middle Pielach valley. Especially in the lower course, the Pielach has largely escaped major regulation and hard reclamation and is still allowed to meander freely in parts. Steep banks, glide shores and gravel bars offer one of the last refuges for many endangered plants and animals. The middle Pielach valley – also called Dirndl valley – and home of Cardinal König – offers views of a lively rural cultural landscape. From Ober-Grafendorf to Loich, the cycle path follows the well-known Mariazell Railway and allows the combination of bike and train.