Mountainbiking in Saalbach
Get out and explore on two wheels
Home to 400 kilometres of trails for mountainbikers and gravel bikers as well as 80 kilometres of trails for downhill enthusiasts, Saalbach-Hinterglemm is widely considered Austria's number one mountainbike destination. The 4* Hotel Astrid in the heart of the region is the ideal base camp for cyclists, not least thanks to its location just 200 metres from the Kohlmaisbahn cable car giving quick and easy access to the mountains. Holders of the JOKER CARD Saalbach, which all guests staying with us receive free of charge, can enjoy two free rides per day on this cable car.
As a qualified mountainbike guide, I look forward to showing you the best riding in the region - from insider tips to some real classics.
Bikeguide Stefan
For years chef Stefan ran the Glemmguides bike school together with four friends, and his love of cooking is second only to his love of mountain biking - he is a true mountainbike fanatic. And he wants the spark to fly - during joint tours, guidings and courses. As a guest, you benefit from a great offer, whether you are a beginner or an expert on two wheels!
Infrastructure at the Hotel Astrid
With Stefan and Herbert we have two in-house experts when it comes to mountainbiking. They will both be happy to give advice on the best trails in the region and the right equipment for a safe and fun riding experience. Our bike storage area has CCTV and an individual numbered locker for each room at the hotel. Last but not least there is a workstation for small repairs as well as a bikewash outside the hotel to keep your precious bike clean and shiny throughout your stay.
Our best bike offers
Sport Hagleitner
The aim of the family-run business is to put a smile on every customer's face. The Hagleitners are very successful at this. They work according to the motto: "Nothing is impossible. We love our job and are constantly developing service and quality." From rental to advice, you are in good hands at Sport Hagleitner. We think that's really cool.
The best rides in the region
This 12km ride contains lots of narrow sections over tree roots, making it a favourite with advanced and expert riders in Saalbach-Hinterglemm. Good bike-handling is a must, but in return you will get flowy sections interspersed with tight switchbacks and rock gardens. Not for the faint-hearted!
The pumptrack at the bottom of the cable cars is a good place to warm up before setting off on this long ride around one of the most beautiful mountains in the area. Leaving from Hinterglemm, take the "Glemmtal Radweg" bike path towards the Rosswaldhütte hut. At the point where the provinces of Tyrol and Salzburg meet, head up onto the Reiterkogel mountain. Once at the top there are two options for descending to the Wetterkreuz – along easy forest roads or the more challenging Wetterkreuz Trail.
The start of this ride is near the top of the Reiterkogelbahn cable car. Most of the riding from there is downhill, leading through rock gardens and over tree roots as well as up and down along a few natural rollers. Tight switchbacks and fun river crossings are also part of this 7km downhill adventure.
Bike Circus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang
The natural topography in the Saalbach Hinterglemm Fieberbrunn region makes it perfect for both cross-country and downhill riding. The large network of well-maintained and clearly signposted trails invites riders of all ages and abilities to get out and explore. Further highlights include pumptracks, a bike-handling skills park, bike shops, local guides, service points and cool events.
Good to know
- Mountain bike helmet
- Mountain bike shoes incl. pedals
- Mountain bike clothing
- Protectors (knees, elbows, eventually also back)
- Mountain bike gloves
- Eye protection
- Drinking bottle or rucksack
- Small emergency repair kit
- Only drive on marked paths
- Do not leave tracks
- Keep the mountain bike maintained
- Keep the mountain bike under good control at all times
- Respect other nature users (humans & animals)
- Act responsibly
Especially as a beginner on a mountain bike, you should brake lightly before every bend. Riding downhill is best when the saddle is slightly lowered - automatically lowering saddles are particularly practical here.
Yes, an active hour on the mountain bike burns up to 800 kilocalories on average. For optimal effects, it is advisable to cycle through hilly terrain for at least an hour and stay in the aerobic heart rate zone. A heart rate monitor can help with this.
Mountain bike routes and single trails are legally defined as paths. This means that the person responsible for the condition of the trail is liable. But be careful: this only applies if the trail is used in accordance with the rules and damage is caused by its poor condition. If, for example, a forest road is used without permission and something happens, the forester is not liable - not even in the case of obvious defects.