New long-distance cycle route in Austria: Meridiem Trail connects Vienna and Villach in the footsteps of the Romans

A new long-distance cycle path connects the Austrian capital with Carinthia. The Meridiem Trail thus also closes the gap between two important European cycle paths: In the north, it connects to the Danube cycle path in Vienna, while in the south it meets the Ciclovia Alpe Adriawhich continues to the Italian Adriatic coast. The route is based on the ancient connection between Roman settlements and brings history to life on two wheels. Accommodation, culinary offerings and transport options are available along the entire route.

Historical route with Roman roots

The new cycle route is 600 kilometres long and covers a total of 4,800 metres in altitude. The route is based on a historical trade route. Back in Roman antiquity, a transport route connected the former city of Vindobona - today's Vienna - with Santicum, the Roman town of Villach, and continued on to the Mediterranean. The Latin term "ad meridiem" means "towards the sun" and describes the route's southern direction. The number 12 characterises the Meridiem Trail in several ways. For the Romans, it symbolised order and perfection, which is reflected in 12 gods, 12 apostles and 12 signs of the zodiac. The new long-distance cycle route picks up on this symbolism and divides the route into 12 stages. Numerous historical sites and Roman archaeological sites can still be found along the route today.

Through three federal states and three state capitals

The route crosses the provinces of Vienna, Styria and Carinthia and connects the three provincial capitals of Vienna, Graz and Klagenfurt. According to the operators, the route also deliberately passes through regions away from busy tourist centres. Two cross-border detours enable excursions to Köszeg in Hungary and the Slovenian region of Koroska.

Culinary variety along the route

The culinary offerings along the Meridiem Trail range from Lower Austrian wine taverns to Styrian wine regions and the volcanic region to Alpe-Adria cuisine in Carinthia. The route crosses several wine-growing and gastronomic regions.

Meridiem Trail: tips for planning your trip

The route leads through a variety of landscapes. Flat sections alternate with hilly passages. Many sights such as Lake Wörthersee, the Jauntal Bridge and the Liaunig Museum are located along the route.

The route can be organised flexibly. Cyclists can choose between 6 and 12 daily stages, depending on their personal fitness level and the time available. Cyclists will find plenty of accommodation along the Meridiem Trail. Hotels, guesthouses and inns offer accommodation in various price categories.

The route takes existing railway connections into account: More than 15 railway stations are located directly on the route or in the immediate vicinity. This allows cycle tourists to plan their stages flexibly as well as travelling to and from the route in an environmentally friendly way using public transport. Special bike trailers and minibuses transport bikes and luggage. Meridiem Trail partners will help you plan your arrival and departure.

The Meridiem Trail runs parallel to other well-known cycle paths and thus joins the growing network of long-distance cycle paths in Austria. GPS tracks are available for download and make it easier to navigate along the way. The exact altitude metres and route lengths as well as a map with detailed information can be requested free of charge via the website https://meridiemtrail.com.