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One-Stop Resource for Bike Tours Worldwide
Representing Local Bike Tour Companies
More than 400 Tours in 70 Countries
Get our newsletter | Contact Us
Call (877) 462-2423 or (423) 756-8907
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| Type of tour: | Self-guided |
| Level: | Leisurely |
| Duration: | 6 Nights |
| Distance: | 35 Miles/day average |
| Dates: | Self-guided: Daily: May 1- Sep 30, 2013. |
| Tour price: | €523 |
| Start city: | St. Michael, Austria |
| End city: | Bad Radkersburg, Austria |
When rivers where the fastest mode of transportation, traders followed the Mur River south from Salzburg to the Slovenian border. This tour along the Mur Cycle Path begins in Lungau, known as Austria's Little Canada. Surrounded by mountains as tall as 6,500 to 9,000 feet (2,000 to 3,000 m), you cycle through pristine nature on the banks of the Mur featuring more than 200 bird species. Along with the natural wonders of the route, you will visit Graz, the pulsating and lively capital of the Styria region.
The tour finishes in the lovely, warm and fertile plains of South Styria complete with vineyards, pumpkin fields and thermal spas. Learn about the local history and way of life as you visit countless museums including an open-air farm museum, a wood and forest museum and a beer museum. This is a tour of contrasts as you cycle through Mur and Styria, the Green Heart of Austria.
Learn more about self-guided tours.
When rivers where the fastest mode of transportation, traders followed the Mur River south from Salzburg to the Slovenian border. This tour along the Mur Cycle Path begins in Lungau, known as Austria's Little Canada. Surrounded by mountains as tall as 6,500 to 9,000 feet (2,000 to 3,000 m), you cycle through pristine nature on the banks of the Mur featuring more than 200 bird species. Along with the natural wonders of the route, you will visit Graz, the pulsating and lively capital of the Styria region.
The tour finishes in the lovely, warm and fertile plains of South Styria complete with vineyards, pumpkin fields and thermal spas. Learn about the local history and way of life as you visit countless museums including an open-air farm museum, a wood and forest museum and a beer museum. This is a tour of contrasts as you cycle through Mur and Styria, the Green Heart of Austria.
Learn more about self-guided tours.
Day 1: St. Michael im Lungau
Personal welcome, tour information and distribution of rental bicycles in St. Michael im Lungau, a miner’s settlement from the 12th century.
Overnight in St. Michael im Lungau.
Day 2: St. Michael – Murau (34 miles/55 km)
The first ride of the tour passes through Tamsweg, with a historic market place and St. Leonhard pilgrim’s church. Forests dominate this stage and you can even visit the Forest and Wood Museum in St. Ruprecht. You will spend the night in Murau, which features a medieval brewery, beer museum and Obermurau Castle.
Overnight in Murau.
Day 3: Murau – Judenburg/surroundings (41 miles/65 km)
Past Murau the river valley narrows at foot of the ragged peaks of Niedere Tauern. Highlights of the stage include Frojach's railway museum; Frauenburg's fortress ruins, where troubadour Ulrich von Liechtenstein lived and died; and Sauerbrunn's oldest mineral water spring of Styria. The final stop of the day is Judenburg, with such historic sites as the old city tower, ancient fortress, town houses and Magdalene’s Church.
Overnight in Judenburg.
Day 4: Judenburg/surroundings - Bruck an der Mur/Oberaich (38 miles/60 km)
Today's ride passes Maria Buch's Pilgrim Church and Stift Seckau's Benedictine Abbey. Historically this region is Austria's most important industrial region. Many efforts have been made to preserve this heritage seen through carefully maintained old towns, pulsating pedestrian zones and interesting museums including Abbey Göss and Gösser Brewery. The final stop of the day is Bruck an der Mur, with a castle mountain, medieval house of corn merchants and town hall.
Overnight in Bruck an der Mur/Oberaich.
Day 5: Bruck an der Mur/Oberaich – Graz/surroundings (38 miles/60 km)
A stop along today's route is Frohnleiten's Murlend Park. From there you venture into pristine nature, passing old fruit orchards surrounding ancient farm buildings, Rabenstein Fortress, Lurgrotte stone cave and the open air farmhouse museum in Stübing. Graz, capital of Styria, adds culture to today’s nature through the town's castle hill with clock tower, Eggenberg Castle, the historic Landhaus (seat of the government and town hall), along with many museums and squares.
Overnight in Graz.
Day 6: Graz– Mureck (41 miles/65 km)
Leaving Graz you ride to Castle Seggau, famous for its royal room, art gallery and 300-year old wine-cellar. Today you will also have your first introduction to the South Styrian Wine Street before reaching Mureck. It is worth seeing Mureck's church, town hall and unique river-mill. Castle Obermureck in neighboring Slovenia is well worth an excursion.
Overnight in Mureck.
Day 7: Mureck – Bad Radkersburg (16 miles/25 km)
Today you cycle along all forms of water on this short final stage. The Mur River, Lake Röcksee, Peterquelle Spring and the thermal springs of Bad Radkersburg are among a few. Sights in Bad Radkersburg include the historic old town that unites many different architectural styles. Individual departure, return transfer or extra days.
Trip to the Mur River Spring (34 miles/55 km)
If you would like an additional ride, you can bike with nearly no traffic along the Mur River until you reach the Muhr National Park Commune. You will pass blooming Alp meadows until you reach the Muritzen parking place (you will have the possiblity to be transferred the rest of the way, which costs 55 Euros for 4 people, 10 Euros per person for 5-10 people). From there the route goes through partly steep ascents, with gradients of 12% and 19%, to the Stickler Hut. The last part of the route is by foot (about 1 hour) to the Mur River Spring at an elevation of 6,627 feet (1,898 m). You then return downhill to St. Michael. (Please note that the transfer depends on the weather, at the earliest end of May).
Daily: May 1- Sep 30, 2013.
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These are sample hotels and may vary based on availability.
Day 1: Landhotel Stofflerwirt, St. Michael
www.stofflerwirt.at
The Landhotel Stofflerwirt stands on the sunny side of the Lungau, offering guests the opportunity for relaxation and easy access to outdoor activities.
Day 2: Hotel Gasthof Lercher, Murau
www.lercher.com
The Hotel Gasthof Lercher is located in the middle of the historical town of Murau.
Day 3: Frühstückspension, Weisskirchen
www.pension-barbara.org
This hotel offers comfortable rooms and excellent hospitality.
Day 4: Gasthof Pichler, Oberaich
www.gasthofpichler.at
Day 5: Hotel Mercure Graz Messe, Graz
www.mercure.com
The Hotel Mercure Graz Messe is located in the heart of the Graz exhibition center and Graz congress.
Day 6: Pension Steirerland, Mureck
www.pension-steirerland.at
The Pension Steirerland's Tavern Restaurant combines Styrian pub culture with a wide array of food.
Interested in visiting other areas before or after your tour? Visit our hotels page to learn more about lodging options.
These are sample hotels and may vary based on availability.
Day 1: Landhotel Stofflerwirt, St. Michael
www.stofflerwirt.at
The Landhotel Stofflerwirt stands on the sunny side of the Lungau, offering guests the opportunity for relaxation and easy access to outdoor activities.
Day 2: Hotel Gasthof Lercher, Murau
www.lercher.com
The Hotel Gasthof Lercher is located in the middle of the historical town of Murau.
Day 3: Frühstückspension, Weisskirchen
www.pension-barbara.org
This hotel offers comfortable rooms and excellent hospitality.
Day 4: Gasthof Pichler, Oberaich
www.gasthofpichler.at
Day 5: Hotel Mercure Graz Messe, Graz
www.mercure.com
The Hotel Mercure Graz Messe is located in the heart of the Graz exhibition center and Graz congress.
Day 6: Pension Steirerland, Mureck
www.pension-steirerland.at
The Pension Steirerland's Tavern Restaurant combines Styrian pub culture with a wide array of food.
Interested in visiting other areas before or after your tour? Visit our hotels page to learn more about lodging options.
A bicycle of good quality is one of the most important factors for a successful cycling holiday. Eurobike's experience cumulates into a solid, easy wheeling and sturdy hybrid touring bike. Modern brakes, aluminum-rims and almost indestructible tires ensure high duration. The heart of each bicycle is a modern, high-resistant aluminum frame. Traffic safety is supported by lighting system, carrier, mudguard and comfortable saddle (you can also bring your own saddle and adapter).
A bicycle of good quality is one of the most important factors for a successful cycling holiday. Eurobike's experience cumulates into a solid, easy wheeling and sturdy hybrid touring bike. Modern brakes, aluminum-rims and almost indestructible tires ensure high duration. The heart of each bicycle is a modern, high-resistant aluminum frame. Traffic safety is supported by lighting system, carrier, mudguard and comfortable saddle (you can also bring your own saddle and adapter).
The routes on this bike tour are mostly on a downhill slope. From the spring to the Slovenian border, the Mur cycle path descends by a height of around 5,500 feet (1,700 m) height and a length of about 226 miles (365 km). From St. Michael to Bad Radkersburg the bike path continues to decline by 2,800 feet (870 m). On the first two days there are several short uphills, but they are always followed by longer downhill sections. The Mur cycle path is well signposted and completely away from traffic. However, there are some short stages on minor roads with heavier traffic only when entering Graz.
This tour is rated Leisurely and is for cyclists in average physical condition.
The routes on this bike tour are mostly on a downhill slope. From the spring to the Slovenian border, the Mur cycle path descends by a height of around 5,500 feet (1,700 m) height and a length of about 226 miles (365 km). From St. Michael to Bad Radkersburg the bike path continues to decline by 2,800 feet (870 m). On the first two days there are several short uphills, but they are always followed by longer downhill sections. The Mur cycle path is well signposted and completely away from traffic. However, there are some short stages on minor roads with heavier traffic only when entering Graz.
This tour is rated Leisurely and is for cyclists in average physical condition.
Tour Start
Nearest airports: Salzburg, Austria or Munich, Germany
Nearest train station: Lungau, Austria
Tour End
Nearest airports: Salzburg, Austria or Munich, Germany
Nearest train station: Graz, Austria
You can take a train from Salzburg, public post bus or a transfer bus to St. Michael. Details available upon request.
Another option includes a return transfer from Bad Radkersburg to St. Michael by Bicycle Taxi Bus. It costs €49 (payable on arrival) and departs Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday at 2 pm and Sunday at 11 am. It takes around 4 hours and is necessary to book your space with the tour.
There is also the option to return from Bad Radkersburg to Graz for €30 per person or to Bruck an der Mur for €38 per person (bike included).
Tour Start
Nearest airports: Salzburg, Austria or Munich, Germany
Nearest train station: Lungau, Austria
Tour End
Nearest airports: Salzburg, Austria or Munich, Germany
Nearest train station: Graz, Austria
You can take a train from Salzburg, public post bus or a transfer bus to St. Michael. Details available upon request.
Another option includes a return transfer from Bad Radkersburg to St. Michael by Bicycle Taxi Bus. It costs €49 (payable on arrival) and departs Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday at 2 pm and Sunday at 11 am. It takes around 4 hours and is necessary to book your space with the tour.
There is also the option to return from Bad Radkersburg to Graz for €30 per person or to Bruck an der Mur for €38 per person (bike included).
Weather Underground offers information on average and record temperatures at many destinations throughout the globe. Type a destination in the search box and enter a travel date range to learn about seasonal weather patterns.
Get weather information.
Weather Underground offers information on average and record temperatures at many destinations throughout the globe. Type a destination in the search box and enter a travel date range to learn about seasonal weather patterns.
Get weather information.
Austria sits at the crossroads of Central Europe, once the Habsburg Empire’s seat of power that ruled Europe for over 6 centuries. While Habsburg power ended after World War I, Austria remains a prominent country. Today it is known for its idyllic and majestic landscape of mountains, green valleys, rivers and storybook villages. Along with such a landscape are the cultural centers of Vienna and Salzburg. The elegant city of Vienna reveals the glory days of the Habsburg Empire, featuring the Hofburg Imperial Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and impressive Opera House. Salzburg, home of Mozart and The Sound of Music, has Europe’s largest intact medieval fortress overlooking the cobblestone streets of its historic Old Town.
More on bicycling in Austria >
Austria sits at the crossroads of Central Europe, once the Habsburg Empire’s seat of power that ruled Europe for over 6 centuries. While Habsburg power ended after World War I, Austria remains a prominent country. Today it is known for its idyllic and majestic landscape of mountains, green valleys, rivers and storybook villages. Along with such a landscape are the cultural centers of Vienna and Salzburg. The elegant city of Vienna reveals the glory days of the Habsburg Empire, featuring the Hofburg Imperial Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and impressive Opera House. Salzburg, home of Mozart and The Sound of Music, has Europe’s largest intact medieval fortress overlooking the cobblestone streets of its historic Old Town.
More on bicycling in Austria >
The following article was written by BikeToursDirect founder and president Jim Johnson in 2004. It covers the northern end of the Mur Bike Path route, in Austria's Lungau region.
Lungau
Austria’s Hidden Paradise
In a country where eager tourism has left few secrets, Austria’s Lungau region may surprise even the most jaded traveler. Located in Salzburg Province’s sunny south, it’s one of Europe’s most stunningly beautiful and culturally authentic areas.
Four distinct arms of the Alps form a daunting border around the region. The peaks of the Tauern Alps block off the region’s northern and western boundaries, while the gentler slopes of the Nockberg Alps reach mile-high plateau to the south and east. Fifteen valleys join in a sprawling basin.
These primary valleys give access to further side valleys—with serene farmland, dense woods and mountains, and the occasional hamlet.
Most of the region’s 24,000 residents live in 15 towns and villages—few of which have made it to guidebooks despite travelers’ treasures of ancient churches and mighty fortresses. There are neither traffic lights nor rotaries. Much of the region is wilderness. Tiny villages and sprawling farms set off a rich countryside against a backdrop of mountains and waterfalls. Dense forests hide more than 60 mountain lakes. Streams come together in raging rivers.
Paradise found
It wasn’t until the 1970s that the Tauern Tunnel connected the Lungau to the rest of Salzburg province and, to some extent, to the world. Even today, most tourism concentrates in the winter months when the region transforms into a skiing wonderland. During the other months, life goes on. Thanks to this relative isolation, visitors find an authenticity more often associated with Eastern Europe but with the infrastructure and fiscal strength of a Western nation.
There’s minimal commercialism, no pretense, and no artificiality. Tourism is secondary to the life they've been living for decades and centuries.
Still, the tourism infrastructure is strong. While visitors will find no five-star hotels and just a handful of four-star establishments, it’s a treasure trove of family-owned and—dare we say—gemütliche establishments. While tourism may be a relatively recent development, hospitality is deeply rooted.
“Tourism doesn’t drive the economy, so we’re not driven by profit,” says Matthias Rauter, an 11th-generation farmer and 2nd-generation innkeeper. “We’re driven by our hearts. It’s a softer tourism here.”
Even the valleys are 1000 meters (3,300 feet) above sea level—at their lowest. Whether it’s the altitude, the generally sunny climate or the isolation, there’s a different quality to both the air and the people. The landscapes seem more distinct and set off from modern influences. And the people carry themselves with self-sufficiency and quiet pride.
“In the Lungau, the experience is much more authentic and pure,” says Rauter. “In other parts of Austria, tourism has shaped the traditions. Tourism is still young here, and the traditions are strong.”
True tradition
It’s traditional but not backward. Even Rauter’s 17th-century farmhouse lodge offers a high-speed Internet connection for its guests. There’s a thriving economy with new cars, modern appliances, and all the comforts.
Visitors won’t find folk music evenings with yodeling and dancing. Instead travelers can experience true tradition at the frequent village festivals that local residents hold for themselves, as they have centuries, with you as willing and welcome guest. There’s the Prangstangen Pageant in late June, when parishioners spend a week to attach more than 50,000 flowers to wooden poles. On Assumption Day in August, the flowers are removed, dried and stored to be used as incense during a winter procession.
On Holy Saturday, scores of “Easter Peace Fires” are lit in the mountains – a tradition that may precede the birth of Christ.
“When you see us celebrating, we’re not doing it for the tourists,” Rauter says. “We’re doing it for ourselves.”
Some of these customs are unusual and even take other Austrians by surprise. For example, there’s the Samson procession. At several times during the year, an honored (and strong) townsman carries a huge figure—about 20 feet (6 meters) high and weighing nearly 175 pounds—on his shoulders. Costumed musicians and guards with muskets surround Samson, who dances to the music as they wind through the alleys and squares. At the end of the procession, the guards shoot off an “honor round.”
For centuries, the procession has demonstrated townspeople’s own belief in the power of God to protect them, just as Samson protected the people of Israel from the Philistines. In all of Austria, the Samson procession happens in just 10 Lungau towns and villages, each of which has its own distinct Samson figure and tradition.
Rooted in religion
As with so many Lungau traditions, Samson is tied to deep religious beliefs. It’s common to find processions going from farm to farm, accompanied by music, as they pray for a bountiful harvest and a safe year. Several times a year, parishioners make full-day pilgrimages to churches and other sacred sites across the region.
Throughout the Lungau, townspeople have built monuments in thanksgiving or hopes of protection, central elements of their faith and belief systems. Altars, chapels and shrines appear in all sizes and forms like the marterl, wooden pedestal crosses put up by farmers or others.
“We’re strong believers,” says Margit Schlossleitner, a Lungau native who recently returned home to head the regional tourist office.
Many buildings have small murals like Jesus raising his hands in blessing over cattle or St. Florian extinguishing flames bursting through a barn roof.
Continued devotion to religion is revealed powerfully and graciously in the Holy Family in the Pines. The Prodinger Family, which owns adjacent grazing land, commissioned artist Ernst Adelsberger to carve images of the holy family as thanks for their prosperity. In 1999, Adelsberger found three trees that had grown together with a massive trunk. He spent much of the next two years, using local residents as models, to carve wooden images that are surprisingly lifelike, right down to dimples. The three figures are joined at the base and still rooted in the ground.
Schlossleitner leans forward toward the wood, takes a deep breath and sighs: “This is Lungau.”
Exploring the region
Although the region is small, the Lungau’s towns and villages have distinct personalities.
In Tamsweg, the administrative center of the Lungau, the market square is surrounded by 15th-century inns and shops that were “modernized” during the 17th century. High above the town, the gothic Church of St. Leonard has welcomed pilgrims for nearly 600 years and awed them with its magnificent stained glass windows.
Mauterndorf is the quintessential medieval village lovingly maintained not as a show town for tourists but out of pride and love for community. Statues of saints perch over doors and windows. From the town’s 16th-century bridge, strollers can look down to the glacial waters of the Taurach River.
Restored to medieval magnificence, Mauterndorf Fortress is a primary Lungau attraction. Many of the fortifications—like the six-story tower with its battlements—date from the 13th century, when it was built as a toll station and residence of Salzburg’s archbishops. The gothic chapel features an altar from 1360 and frescoes from the 1200s. A compelling feature is the “Fortress Experience” exhibition, a series of detailed and thorough displays showing life in the Middle Ages—specifically, life at Mauterndorf Fortress. Nothing is idealized, and even those who yawned through high school history will remain wide-eyed. Signs are in English and German, and audio tapes are available in English. Enjoy lunch in the Italianate receiving rooms or in the inner courtyard.
Moosham Castle stands a short distance away over the town of Unternberg. It’s the Lungau’s answer to Salem, with a frightful history of witch trials and executions.
Mariapfarr’s parish church is considered the “mother church” of the Lungau. For many, that makes the town the region’s emotional heart. The church was first mentioned in 923 and has elements—like the Romanesque fresco in the choir—that date from the 1200s. At night, from a distance, lights focus on the steeple cross and make it seem to float above the body of the church.
A Roman road first crossed a narrow side valley into Thomatal in 50 A.D. The village church stands on the site of a former pagan temple and is still aligned with the sun as it rises during the summer solstice. During a recent renovation, workers found Roman coins. Even this small church shows distinctive styles from different periods in its history, with Romanesque styling to the west and gothic to the east, where the 30-meter (102-foot) tower rises over an ornate late baroque high altar. The 17th-century pews are hand carved, and the plank floors worn smooth by devoted parishioners.
Across the street, in the Lungauer Webstube, Ingrid Korbuly demonstrates traditional weaving methods and sells her colorful wares. (Elsewhere, guests can visit woodcarvers, distilleries, glassmakers, and even an organ-builder who is currently building a 4,500-pipe instrument that will be Vienna’s largest.)
In the village of Bundschuh, the Hochofen Museum gives a taste of life in the 19th century, when mining and forestry dominated the economy. Visitors can walk through remnants of a 19th-century blast furnace and along the foundations of the old mining settlement. Nearby, an open-air museum shows replicas of foresters huts with dried-bark walls stretched across log frames. Smoke from the hearth turned the ceilings black. This was home for weeks on end as recently as 70 years ago.
Much of the region is just collections of farmhouses. Most stand on stone foundations topped by hewn logs display decorative carving and painting. Flowers pour from windows. Firewood often fills racks built into the sides. Troadkästen are popular features on farms: two-story barns that once stored bacon, seeds, grains and other goods. Many date to the 16th century and feature intricate woodwork and ornate frescoes.
Elsewhere, sprawling meadows line the road, and an occasional brook etches its way through moss and grass. Bubbles spit as the stream hits a rock. With the exception of an occasional farmer’s hut or hunter’s stand, wilderness spreads for miles. Occasionally, cows block the road.
For the adventurous, it’s a hiker’s paradise and a cyclist’s El Dorado. Paddlers won’t get bored, and cable cars above Mauterndorf speed access to mile-high peaks. A network of mountain huts covers most of the region. Although some mountain huts are accessible just by foot, most have road access for cars or the popular Tälerbus (Valley Bus).
One of the most popular is the Ludlhütte at Prebersee Lake, which offers a cozy log cabin for chilly days and sunny deck overlooking the lake for the more common sunny days. Sausages, meats, cheeses, fruit juices and fresh buttermilk are all produced locally.
Transportation
Getting to the Lungau by public transportation is a challenge. There are no airports (save a small field), and train service follows a circuitous route that either connects with a private, narrow-gauge railway or bus service.
Driving is simple and scenic and follows one of two primary roads. From the northwest, the route travels through the Tauern Tunnel and opens into an expanse of hills, valleys and mountains. From the northeast, the route follows an ancient Roman route (complete with Roman milestones) along switchbacks through the Obertauern Pass and Taurach Valley. After Tweng, a hamlet where post riders once swapped horses, the road swoops down toward Mauterndorf. (As an interesting point of reference, Venice is closer than Vienna.)
Van transfers are also available from Salzburg (about 2 hours and €18 one-way) or Vienna (about 5 hours and €40 one-way).
For getting around without a car, the best day-to-day option is to use the Tälerbus, which offers frequent access to all villages and most attractions. Even if you do have a car, consider hiring a taxi for (through the Tourist Office) with a local guide. You’ll pay about €150-200 per day depending on how much you want to travel, but you’ll get local insight and flavor and find treasures that don’t make it into any guide book or perhaps even into this publication.
Lungau Basics
Population: 24,000
Elevation: 3,300-9,200 feet (1,000-2,800 meters)
Regional Tourist Office: Rotkreuzgasse 100, A-5582 St. Michael, tel: +43 / 6477 / 8988, fax 8988 / 20, email: info@lungau.at, web www.lungau.at (most towns and villages also have their own tourist offices)
Nearest Airports: Salzburg Airport 62 miles (100 km), Klagenfurt 75 miles (120 km)
Nearest Train Stations: Radstadt 28 miles (45 km) with connecting bus service; Tamsweg (limited service)
Transfers are available from Vienna and Salzburg through Bacher Reisen, Marktstrasse 94, A-5582 St. Michael, tel: 43 / 6477 /8111 , fax: 81114, E mail: office@bacher-reisen.com
Driving Distances (to Mariapfarr):
Innsbruck 296/km/183 miles
Klagenfurt 130 km/81 miles
Munich 255 km/158 miles
Salzburg 124 km/77 miles
Venice 349 km/216 miles
Vienna 374 km/231 miles
Zurich 567 km/251 miles
The following article was written by BikeToursDirect founder and president Jim Johnson in 2004. It covers the northern end of the Mur Bike Path route, in Austria's Lungau region.
Lungau
Austria’s Hidden Paradise
In a country where eager tourism has left few secrets, Austria’s Lungau region may surprise even the most jaded traveler. Located in Salzburg Province’s sunny south, it’s one of Europe’s most stunningly beautiful and culturally authentic areas.
Four distinct arms of the Alps form a daunting border around the region. The peaks of the Tauern Alps block off the region’s northern and western boundaries, while the gentler slopes of the Nockberg Alps reach mile-high plateau to the south and east. Fifteen valleys join in a sprawling basin.
These primary valleys give access to further side valleys—with serene farmland, dense woods and mountains, and the occasional hamlet.
Most of the region’s 24,000 residents live in 15 towns and villages—few of which have made it to guidebooks despite travelers’ treasures of ancient churches and mighty fortresses. There are neither traffic lights nor rotaries. Much of the region is wilderness. Tiny villages and sprawling farms set off a rich countryside against a backdrop of mountains and waterfalls. Dense forests hide more than 60 mountain lakes. Streams come together in raging rivers.
Paradise found
It wasn’t until the 1970s that the Tauern Tunnel connected the Lungau to the rest of Salzburg province and, to some extent, to the world. Even today, most tourism concentrates in the winter months when the region transforms into a skiing wonderland. During the other months, life goes on. Thanks to this relative isolation, visitors find an authenticity more often associated with Eastern Europe but with the infrastructure and fiscal strength of a Western nation.
There’s minimal commercialism, no pretense, and no artificiality. Tourism is secondary to the life they've been living for decades and centuries.
Still, the tourism infrastructure is strong. While visitors will find no five-star hotels and just a handful of four-star establishments, it’s a treasure trove of family-owned and—dare we say—gemütliche establishments. While tourism may be a relatively recent development, hospitality is deeply rooted.
“Tourism doesn’t drive the economy, so we’re not driven by profit,” says Matthias Rauter, an 11th-generation farmer and 2nd-generation innkeeper. “We’re driven by our hearts. It’s a softer tourism here.”
Even the valleys are 1000 meters (3,300 feet) above sea level—at their lowest. Whether it’s the altitude, the generally sunny climate or the isolation, there’s a different quality to both the air and the people. The landscapes seem more distinct and set off from modern influences. And the people carry themselves with self-sufficiency and quiet pride.
“In the Lungau, the experience is much more authentic and pure,” says Rauter. “In other parts of Austria, tourism has shaped the traditions. Tourism is still young here, and the traditions are strong.”
True tradition
It’s traditional but not backward. Even Rauter’s 17th-century farmhouse lodge offers a high-speed Internet connection for its guests. There’s a thriving economy with new cars, modern appliances, and all the comforts.
Visitors won’t find folk music evenings with yodeling and dancing. Instead travelers can experience true tradition at the frequent village festivals that local residents hold for themselves, as they have centuries, with you as willing and welcome guest. There’s the Prangstangen Pageant in late June, when parishioners spend a week to attach more than 50,000 flowers to wooden poles. On Assumption Day in August, the flowers are removed, dried and stored to be used as incense during a winter procession.
On Holy Saturday, scores of “Easter Peace Fires” are lit in the mountains – a tradition that may precede the birth of Christ.
“When you see us celebrating, we’re not doing it for the tourists,” Rauter says. “We’re doing it for ourselves.”
Some of these customs are unusual and even take other Austrians by surprise. For example, there’s the Samson procession. At several times during the year, an honored (and strong) townsman carries a huge figure—about 20 feet (6 meters) high and weighing nearly 175 pounds—on his shoulders. Costumed musicians and guards with muskets surround Samson, who dances to the music as they wind through the alleys and squares. At the end of the procession, the guards shoot off an “honor round.”
For centuries, the procession has demonstrated townspeople’s own belief in the power of God to protect them, just as Samson protected the people of Israel from the Philistines. In all of Austria, the Samson procession happens in just 10 Lungau towns and villages, each of which has its own distinct Samson figure and tradition.
Rooted in religion
As with so many Lungau traditions, Samson is tied to deep religious beliefs. It’s common to find processions going from farm to farm, accompanied by music, as they pray for a bountiful harvest and a safe year. Several times a year, parishioners make full-day pilgrimages to churches and other sacred sites across the region.
Throughout the Lungau, townspeople have built monuments in thanksgiving or hopes of protection, central elements of their faith and belief systems. Altars, chapels and shrines appear in all sizes and forms like the marterl, wooden pedestal crosses put up by farmers or others.
“We’re strong believers,” says Margit Schlossleitner, a Lungau native who recently returned home to head the regional tourist office.
Many buildings have small murals like Jesus raising his hands in blessing over cattle or St. Florian extinguishing flames bursting through a barn roof.
Continued devotion to religion is revealed powerfully and graciously in the Holy Family in the Pines. The Prodinger Family, which owns adjacent grazing land, commissioned artist Ernst Adelsberger to carve images of the holy family as thanks for their prosperity. In 1999, Adelsberger found three trees that had grown together with a massive trunk. He spent much of the next two years, using local residents as models, to carve wooden images that are surprisingly lifelike, right down to dimples. The three figures are joined at the base and still rooted in the ground.
Schlossleitner leans forward toward the wood, takes a deep breath and sighs: “This is Lungau.”
Exploring the region
Although the region is small, the Lungau’s towns and villages have distinct personalities.
In Tamsweg, the administrative center of the Lungau, the market square is surrounded by 15th-century inns and shops that were “modernized” during the 17th century. High above the town, the gothic Church of St. Leonard has welcomed pilgrims for nearly 600 years and awed them with its magnificent stained glass windows.
Mauterndorf is the quintessential medieval village lovingly maintained not as a show town for tourists but out of pride and love for community. Statues of saints perch over doors and windows. From the town’s 16th-century bridge, strollers can look down to the glacial waters of the Taurach River.
Restored to medieval magnificence, Mauterndorf Fortress is a primary Lungau attraction. Many of the fortifications—like the six-story tower with its battlements—date from the 13th century, when it was built as a toll station and residence of Salzburg’s archbishops. The gothic chapel features an altar from 1360 and frescoes from the 1200s. A compelling feature is the “Fortress Experience” exhibition, a series of detailed and thorough displays showing life in the Middle Ages—specifically, life at Mauterndorf Fortress. Nothing is idealized, and even those who yawned through high school history will remain wide-eyed. Signs are in English and German, and audio tapes are available in English. Enjoy lunch in the Italianate receiving rooms or in the inner courtyard.
Moosham Castle stands a short distance away over the town of Unternberg. It’s the Lungau’s answer to Salem, with a frightful history of witch trials and executions.
Mariapfarr’s parish church is considered the “mother church” of the Lungau. For many, that makes the town the region’s emotional heart. The church was first mentioned in 923 and has elements—like the Romanesque fresco in the choir—that date from the 1200s. At night, from a distance, lights focus on the steeple cross and make it seem to float above the body of the church.
A Roman road first crossed a narrow side valley into Thomatal in 50 A.D. The village church stands on the site of a former pagan temple and is still aligned with the sun as it rises during the summer solstice. During a recent renovation, workers found Roman coins. Even this small church shows distinctive styles from different periods in its history, with Romanesque styling to the west and gothic to the east, where the 30-meter (102-foot) tower rises over an ornate late baroque high altar. The 17th-century pews are hand carved, and the plank floors worn smooth by devoted parishioners.
Across the street, in the Lungauer Webstube, Ingrid Korbuly demonstrates traditional weaving methods and sells her colorful wares. (Elsewhere, guests can visit woodcarvers, distilleries, glassmakers, and even an organ-builder who is currently building a 4,500-pipe instrument that will be Vienna’s largest.)
In the village of Bundschuh, the Hochofen Museum gives a taste of life in the 19th century, when mining and forestry dominated the economy. Visitors can walk through remnants of a 19th-century blast furnace and along the foundations of the old mining settlement. Nearby, an open-air museum shows replicas of foresters huts with dried-bark walls stretched across log frames. Smoke from the hearth turned the ceilings black. This was home for weeks on end as recently as 70 years ago.
Much of the region is just collections of farmhouses. Most stand on stone foundations topped by hewn logs display decorative carving and painting. Flowers pour from windows. Firewood often fills racks built into the sides. Troadkästen are popular features on farms: two-story barns that once stored bacon, seeds, grains and other goods. Many date to the 16th century and feature intricate woodwork and ornate frescoes.
Elsewhere, sprawling meadows line the road, and an occasional brook etches its way through moss and grass. Bubbles spit as the stream hits a rock. With the exception of an occasional farmer’s hut or hunter’s stand, wilderness spreads for miles. Occasionally, cows block the road.
For the adventurous, it’s a hiker’s paradise and a cyclist’s El Dorado. Paddlers won’t get bored, and cable cars above Mauterndorf speed access to mile-high peaks. A network of mountain huts covers most of the region. Although some mountain huts are accessible just by foot, most have road access for cars or the popular Tälerbus (Valley Bus).
One of the most popular is the Ludlhütte at Prebersee Lake, which offers a cozy log cabin for chilly days and sunny deck overlooking the lake for the more common sunny days. Sausages, meats, cheeses, fruit juices and fresh buttermilk are all produced locally.
Transportation
Getting to the Lungau by public transportation is a challenge. There are no airports (save a small field), and train service follows a circuitous route that either connects with a private, narrow-gauge railway or bus service.
Driving is simple and scenic and follows one of two primary roads. From the northwest, the route travels through the Tauern Tunnel and opens into an expanse of hills, valleys and mountains. From the northeast, the route follows an ancient Roman route (complete with Roman milestones) along switchbacks through the Obertauern Pass and Taurach Valley. After Tweng, a hamlet where post riders once swapped horses, the road swoops down toward Mauterndorf. (As an interesting point of reference, Venice is closer than Vienna.)
Van transfers are also available from Salzburg (about 2 hours and €18 one-way) or Vienna (about 5 hours and €40 one-way).
For getting around without a car, the best day-to-day option is to use the Tälerbus, which offers frequent access to all villages and most attractions. Even if you do have a car, consider hiring a taxi for (through the Tourist Office) with a local guide. You’ll pay about €150-200 per day depending on how much you want to travel, but you’ll get local insight and flavor and find treasures that don’t make it into any guide book or perhaps even into this publication.
Lungau Basics
Population: 24,000
Elevation: 3,300-9,200 feet (1,000-2,800 meters)
Regional Tourist Office: Rotkreuzgasse 100, A-5582 St. Michael, tel: +43 / 6477 / 8988, fax 8988 / 20, email: info@lungau.at, web www.lungau.at (most towns and villages also have their own tourist offices)
Nearest Airports: Salzburg Airport 62 miles (100 km), Klagenfurt 75 miles (120 km)
Nearest Train Stations: Radstadt 28 miles (45 km) with connecting bus service; Tamsweg (limited service)
Transfers are available from Vienna and Salzburg through Bacher Reisen, Marktstrasse 94, A-5582 St. Michael, tel: 43 / 6477 /8111 , fax: 81114, E mail: office@bacher-reisen.com
Driving Distances (to Mariapfarr):
Innsbruck 296/km/183 miles
Klagenfurt 130 km/81 miles
Munich 255 km/158 miles
Salzburg 124 km/77 miles
Venice 349 km/216 miles
Vienna 374 km/231 miles
Zurich 567 km/251 miles
Eurofun Touristik, also known as Eurobike, was founded in 1993. The company stands for long-term experience in tourism, specializing in cycle holidays. The company has continued to expand over the years, adding "Rückenwind Reisen” in Oldenburg/Germany to the Eurofun group in 2002 and "Eurohike" was founded to service the growing demand for hiking holidays in 2004.
Eurofun's strenths include professional and meticulously researched routes, modern and regularly maintained bicycles, tour guides who know the country accompanying group tours and very detailed travel documentation for individual tours. Along with these aspects, Eurofun offers excellent working support service, luggage transfer and accommodation in hotels with a comfortable ambience and cozy atmosphere.
Eurofun Touristik, also known as Eurobike, was founded in 1993. The company stands for long-term experience in tourism, specializing in cycle holidays. The company has continued to expand over the years, adding "Rückenwind Reisen” in Oldenburg/Germany to the Eurofun group in 2002 and "Eurohike" was founded to service the growing demand for hiking holidays in 2004.
Eurofun's strenths include professional and meticulously researched routes, modern and regularly maintained bicycles, tour guides who know the country accompanying group tours and very detailed travel documentation for individual tours. Along with these aspects, Eurofun offers excellent working support service, luggage transfer and accommodation in hotels with a comfortable ambience and cozy atmosphere.
I. Cancellation through the customer/substitute participant/change in booking
1. The customer can withdraw from the agreement at any time. We suggest to declare the withdrawal in writing. In case of withdrawal or non-participation without a previous withdrawal declaration we are authorised to charge the following cancellation fees:
In each case a cancellation insurance is recommendable.
For bike and boat tours offered through EUROFUN, the following cancellation penalties apply:
2. Every registered trip participant can let a third party take his place, if we are informed up to three days before the beginning of the journey. EUROFUN can oppose the participation of a third party because of important reasons. The following withdrawal conditions are effective in such a situation. If a third party takes the place of the registered participant, the original contract is not affected. We are authorised to charge € 50,-- for the change in booking.
3. Changes with regard to number of participants, number or type of rooms, hotel category or catering are basically possible up to 14 days before the beginning of the journey. However, we will have to charge you an alteration fee for the arising expenses. We will charge € 50,-- for each change in booking.
II. Signing the travel agreement
1. When booking a journey the customer offers EUROBIKE - EUROFUN TOURISTIK GMBH (EUROFUN) the conclusion of a binding travel agreement. The registration takes place in writing and on the intended form whether ours or that of one of our partner offices. Any other form of registration, whether on the phone, oral, or written with us or one of our partner offices is also binding. The registration is made by the customer also for all the other named participants. The customer accepts the binding conditions of travel at issue - also in the name and in the behalf of the named participants.
2. The agreement is reached when EUROFUN or one of its partner offices accepts the booking and sends you a booking confirmation.
3. Collateral agreements and changes of the signed travel agreement need to be confirmed by us in writing.
III. Payment
When the booking confirmation reaches you, a first payment of € 100,-- should be made. 28 days before the beginning of the trip at the latest the payment of the rest of the travel price is due. Bank accounts in Austria, Germany, Switzerland and Italy are at your disposal for the deposit. Please note that the invoice total should be credited to our account; possible costs of the payments should be debited to the account of the trip participant! The travel material will be sent to you after the deposit is received, or latest two weeks before the beginning of the journey. Bank accounts: Volksbank Braunau, bank code: 42550, account number: 380 7864 0000 Sparkasse Ried, bank code: 20333, account number: 0000-000711 Hypo-Vereinsbank Simbach, bank code: 743 200 73, account number: 6070 220 510 Volksbank Bodensee AG St. Margarethen, account number: 16.100.373.09 Südtiroler Sparkasse Cassa di Risparmino di Bolzano, account number: 2081-5801, bank code: 0604511688
IV. Services
1. The service descriptions in the at the time of the journey current EUROFUN-catalogue cover the range of our contractual services. Differing declarations or pledges from mediating travel agents, town or hotel brochures or other third parties are not relevant. The indicated towns of each stage are usually and mainly the destinations of the stage. In some cases we have to assume your consent to take into account other towns in the near surroundings without deduction.
2. The trip price is based on one person in a double room. A single room can be booked - if available - for an extra charge. In some hotels, however, the number of available single rooms is limited, so that you might have to do at a pinch with a little bit simpler accommodation or be possibly accommodated in another hotel or private guest house. If, by way of exception, a single room cannot be made available, you will have to share a double room with one of the other participants. In such a case, of course, the extra price you have been charge will be proportionately refunded.
3. Children up to the age of 14 will receive a 25% discount on the travel price, if they sleep in the room of two full price payers (with an additional bed).
V. Liability and restriction of liability
1. EUROBIKE EUROFUN TOURISTIK GMBH is liable in the scope of the obligation to exercise diligence of an ordinary trader for the conscientious preparation of the journey, the careful choice and monitoring of the services and the correctness of the for the time of the trip, valid at the time of the publication of our catalogue, description of the services.
2. Participation in a bike tour is at one's own risk. Minors can participate in a trip only in the company of a legal guardian.
3. Participants are responsible for their personal health being up to the demands of the journeys.
4. Participants are also responsible for the compliance with the traffic regulations.
5. The terms of transport of the respective haulier (bus, boat, plane and the like) are valid for all transports. Customer's money protection in accordance with EU-decree You money is safe with us. Customer's money protection in accordance with EU-decree The EUROFUN TOURISTIK GmbH is recorded in the organisers register of the ministry of economic affairs with the number 1999/0035. With the package tours booked by EUROFUN TOURISTIK GmbH (in case of insolvency), already paid payments for travel services that have not been provided any more and necessary expenses for the return journey are covered through a bank guarantee by Volksbank Braunau, A-5280 Braunau. The quarterly protection sums correspond with the legal requirements. The amount of the protection results from the travel agency decree BGBl. 881/94 Nr. 274 of 15.11.1994 and Nr. 170, BGBl. Nr. 52 of 12.04.1996. In case of insolvency direct refund applications to EUROPÄISCHE REISEVESICHERUNG AG, Augasse 5 - 7, A-1090 Wien, Tel. 0043-1/317 25 00, Fax: 0043-1/317 25 00 199. Refund applications should be delivered within 8 weeks from the onset of the claim. You will receive an appropriate protection certificate with the booking confirmation.
6. We cannot be made liable if a planned sightseeing tour cannot be made, for whatever reasons (rebuilding, renovation etc.) that cannot be influenced by us.
7. Should any disadvantages occur that have been caused by one of our chosen service carriers or us only, neither wilfully nor gross negligently, our liability - out of whichever legal argument - is limited to the triple amount of the tour price.
8. Should disadvantages occur through loss or damage of your luggage, we are only liable if the disadvantage has been caused by us and are reported to us immediately after the occurrence; however, even then only up to € 200,-- per person. We recommend a Luggage-Travel-Insurance or a Travel-Safety-Package for the risks. This restriction of liability is also valid for tours who EUROBIKE - EUROFUN TOURISTIK is the travel agent.
9. Should a tour be cancelled for reasons that we cannot influence (strike, natural disaster and the like) or should less than 8 persons participate in a tour - if there is no other minimum number of participants indicated in the corresponding tour description - we reserve the right to cancel the tour up to 25 days before the planned beginning of the tour. In this case you will be informed as soon as possible and receive your money back immediately. There are no other legitimate claims.
VI. Warranty
1. Legal redress If the tour does not proceed according to the contract, legal redress can be sought. What is contractual is determined on the one side by the service description, on the other by the locality of the country of destination. EUROBIKE - EUROFUN TOURISTIK GMBH can refuse the redress, if an extraordinary effort is required, is however authorised to provide redress in the form of substitute services, whether of equal or higher worth. The customer can refuse such a substitute service only in case of important, objectively recognisable reasons. The redress claim should be directed at us or the travel guide. The travel guide is however not authorised to acknowledge the claim.
2. Reduction of the travel price After his return the customer can claim a reduction of the travel price for the duration of the tour that has not proceeded according to the contract until legal redress has been provided through EUROBIKE - EUROFUN TOURISTIK. Legal redress will not be provided if the traveller intentionally refrained to indicate the shortcomings to the offices named in VI.1. on time to make the legal redress for these possible.
3. Any claims that might arise should be asserted up to one month latest after the contractually intended termination of the tour.
VII. Protection of Client's Payments
Protection of clients' payments is according to the guidelines of the European Union dated June 13, 1990 (90/314/EWG, article 2 Z1) - as well as the Austrian law of travel agent security decree (RSV) BGBl. II Nr. 16/1999. In the event of insolvency the tour packages organised by EUROBIKE - EUROFUN TOURISTIK are insured by a bank guarantee at Volksbank Braunau, A-5280 Braunau. This insurance is valid for services paid, but not rendered and for eventual costs of clients return to home base. In the event of insolvency all claims above and beyond the bank guarantee have to reach the handling agent EUROPÄISCHE Reiseversicherung AG, 1090 Vienna, Augasse 5-7, Phone. +43/1/317 25 00, Fax: +43/1/317 25 00 199, within 8 weeks of insolvency date. Clients receive certificates of insurance with their booking.
VII. Cooperation Obligation
1. If travel material is not provided on time, the traveller should inform EUROBIKE - EUROFUN TOURISTIK immediately.
2. If any service interference occurs, the traveller is obliged to contribute everything possible within reasonableness to get rid of the interference and to avoid or to limit the possible damages that may arise. The customer is especially obliged to inform the offices named in VI.1. of any complaints immediately. They are authorised to provide legal redress, as far as this is possible. If the customer refrains intentionally to indicate the shortcomings, a claim for reduction cannot be made.
IX. Miscellaneous
1. The customer is responsible for the compliance with all passport, visa, custom, and health regulations.
2. We have to reserve the right to change prices and services, as well as to correct mistakes and printing errors.
3. The inoperativeness of single regulations of the travel agreement does not result in inoperativeness of the whole agreement.
X. Legal domicile/applicable law
1. The agreement conditions are subject to Austrian law.
2. The customer can sue EUROBIKE - EUROFUN TOURISTIK only at its headquarters.
3. The customer's place of residence is decisive for the tour operator's suits against the customer, unless the suit is directed against entrepreneurs or persons that do not have a general legal domicile in Austria. In this case the tour operator's place of headquarters is decisive. Tour operator For all tours that are marked with the opposite seal the tour operator is: EUROBIKE - EUROFUNTOURISTIK GMBH A-5162 Obertrum am See EUROBIKE - EUROFUNTOURISTIK is the travel agent for all other tours.
I. Cancellation through the customer/substitute participant/change in booking
1. The customer can withdraw from the agreement at any time. We suggest to declare the withdrawal in writing. In case of withdrawal or non-participation without a previous withdrawal declaration we are authorised to charge the following cancellation fees:
In each case a cancellation insurance is recommendable.
For bike and boat tours offered through EUROFUN, the following cancellation penalties apply:
2. Every registered trip participant can let a third party take his place, if we are informed up to three days before the beginning of the journey. EUROFUN can oppose the participation of a third party because of important reasons. The following withdrawal conditions are effective in such a situation. If a third party takes the place of the registered participant, the original contract is not affected. We are authorised to charge € 50,-- for the change in booking.
3. Changes with regard to number of participants, number or type of rooms, hotel category or catering are basically possible up to 14 days before the beginning of the journey. However, we will have to charge you an alteration fee for the arising expenses. We will charge € 50,-- for each change in booking.
II. Signing the travel agreement
1. When booking a journey the customer offers EUROBIKE - EUROFUN TOURISTIK GMBH (EUROFUN) the conclusion of a binding travel agreement. The registration takes place in writing and on the intended form whether ours or that of one of our partner offices. Any other form of registration, whether on the phone, oral, or written with us or one of our partner offices is also binding. The registration is made by the customer also for all the other named participants. The customer accepts the binding conditions of travel at issue - also in the name and in the behalf of the named participants.
2. The agreement is reached when EUROFUN or one of its partner offices accepts the booking and sends you a booking confirmation.
3. Collateral agreements and changes of the signed travel agreement need to be confirmed by us in writing.
III. Payment
When the booking confirmation reaches you, a first payment of € 100,-- should be made. 28 days before the beginning of the trip at the latest the payment of the rest of the travel price is due. Bank accounts in Austria, Germany, Switzerland and Italy are at your disposal for the deposit. Please note that the invoice total should be credited to our account; possible costs of the payments should be debited to the account of the trip participant! The travel material will be sent to you after the deposit is received, or latest two weeks before the beginning of the journey. Bank accounts: Volksbank Braunau, bank code: 42550, account number: 380 7864 0000 Sparkasse Ried, bank code: 20333, account number: 0000-000711 Hypo-Vereinsbank Simbach, bank code: 743 200 73, account number: 6070 220 510 Volksbank Bodensee AG St. Margarethen, account number: 16.100.373.09 Südtiroler Sparkasse Cassa di Risparmino di Bolzano, account number: 2081-5801, bank code: 0604511688
IV. Services
1. The service descriptions in the at the time of the journey current EUROFUN-catalogue cover the range of our contractual services. Differing declarations or pledges from mediating travel agents, town or hotel brochures or other third parties are not relevant. The indicated towns of each stage are usually and mainly the destinations of the stage. In some cases we have to assume your consent to take into account other towns in the near surroundings without deduction.
2. The trip price is based on one person in a double room. A single room can be booked - if available - for an extra charge. In some hotels, however, the number of available single rooms is limited, so that you might have to do at a pinch with a little bit simpler accommodation or be possibly accommodated in another hotel or private guest house. If, by way of exception, a single room cannot be made available, you will have to share a double room with one of the other participants. In such a case, of course, the extra price you have been charge will be proportionately refunded.
3. Children up to the age of 14 will receive a 25% discount on the travel price, if they sleep in the room of two full price payers (with an additional bed).
V. Liability and restriction of liability
1. EUROBIKE EUROFUN TOURISTIK GMBH is liable in the scope of the obligation to exercise diligence of an ordinary trader for the conscientious preparation of the journey, the careful choice and monitoring of the services and the correctness of the for the time of the trip, valid at the time of the publication of our catalogue, description of the services.
2. Participation in a bike tour is at one's own risk. Minors can participate in a trip only in the company of a legal guardian.
3. Participants are responsible for their personal health being up to the demands of the journeys.
4. Participants are also responsible for the compliance with the traffic regulations.
5. The terms of transport of the respective haulier (bus, boat, plane and the like) are valid for all transports. Customer's money protection in accordance with EU-decree You money is safe with us. Customer's money protection in accordance with EU-decree The EUROFUN TOURISTIK GmbH is recorded in the organisers register of the ministry of economic affairs with the number 1999/0035. With the package tours booked by EUROFUN TOURISTIK GmbH (in case of insolvency), already paid payments for travel services that have not been provided any more and necessary expenses for the return journey are covered through a bank guarantee by Volksbank Braunau, A-5280 Braunau. The quarterly protection sums correspond with the legal requirements. The amount of the protection results from the travel agency decree BGBl. 881/94 Nr. 274 of 15.11.1994 and Nr. 170, BGBl. Nr. 52 of 12.04.1996. In case of insolvency direct refund applications to EUROPÄISCHE REISEVESICHERUNG AG, Augasse 5 - 7, A-1090 Wien, Tel. 0043-1/317 25 00, Fax: 0043-1/317 25 00 199. Refund applications should be delivered within 8 weeks from the onset of the claim. You will receive an appropriate protection certificate with the booking confirmation.
6. We cannot be made liable if a planned sightseeing tour cannot be made, for whatever reasons (rebuilding, renovation etc.) that cannot be influenced by us.
7. Should any disadvantages occur that have been caused by one of our chosen service carriers or us only, neither wilfully nor gross negligently, our liability - out of whichever legal argument - is limited to the triple amount of the tour price.
8. Should disadvantages occur through loss or damage of your luggage, we are only liable if the disadvantage has been caused by us and are reported to us immediately after the occurrence; however, even then only up to € 200,-- per person. We recommend a Luggage-Travel-Insurance or a Travel-Safety-Package for the risks. This restriction of liability is also valid for tours who EUROBIKE - EUROFUN TOURISTIK is the travel agent.
9. Should a tour be cancelled for reasons that we cannot influence (strike, natural disaster and the like) or should less than 8 persons participate in a tour - if there is no other minimum number of participants indicated in the corresponding tour description - we reserve the right to cancel the tour up to 25 days before the planned beginning of the tour. In this case you will be informed as soon as possible and receive your money back immediately. There are no other legitimate claims.
VI. Warranty
1. Legal redress If the tour does not proceed according to the contract, legal redress can be sought. What is contractual is determined on the one side by the service description, on the other by the locality of the country of destination. EUROBIKE - EUROFUN TOURISTIK GMBH can refuse the redress, if an extraordinary effort is required, is however authorised to provide redress in the form of substitute services, whether of equal or higher worth. The customer can refuse such a substitute service only in case of important, objectively recognisable reasons. The redress claim should be directed at us or the travel guide. The travel guide is however not authorised to acknowledge the claim.
2. Reduction of the travel price After his return the customer can claim a reduction of the travel price for the duration of the tour that has not proceeded according to the contract until legal redress has been provided through EUROBIKE - EUROFUN TOURISTIK. Legal redress will not be provided if the traveller intentionally refrained to indicate the shortcomings to the offices named in VI.1. on time to make the legal redress for these possible.
3. Any claims that might arise should be asserted up to one month latest after the contractually intended termination of the tour.
VII. Protection of Client's Payments
Protection of clients' payments is according to the guidelines of the European Union dated June 13, 1990 (90/314/EWG, article 2 Z1) - as well as the Austrian law of travel agent security decree (RSV) BGBl. II Nr. 16/1999. In the event of insolvency the tour packages organised by EUROBIKE - EUROFUN TOURISTIK are insured by a bank guarantee at Volksbank Braunau, A-5280 Braunau. This insurance is valid for services paid, but not rendered and for eventual costs of clients return to home base. In the event of insolvency all claims above and beyond the bank guarantee have to reach the handling agent EUROPÄISCHE Reiseversicherung AG, 1090 Vienna, Augasse 5-7, Phone. +43/1/317 25 00, Fax: +43/1/317 25 00 199, within 8 weeks of insolvency date. Clients receive certificates of insurance with their booking.
VII. Cooperation Obligation
1. If travel material is not provided on time, the traveller should inform EUROBIKE - EUROFUN TOURISTIK immediately.
2. If any service interference occurs, the traveller is obliged to contribute everything possible within reasonableness to get rid of the interference and to avoid or to limit the possible damages that may arise. The customer is especially obliged to inform the offices named in VI.1. of any complaints immediately. They are authorised to provide legal redress, as far as this is possible. If the customer refrains intentionally to indicate the shortcomings, a claim for reduction cannot be made.
IX. Miscellaneous
1. The customer is responsible for the compliance with all passport, visa, custom, and health regulations.
2. We have to reserve the right to change prices and services, as well as to correct mistakes and printing errors.
3. The inoperativeness of single regulations of the travel agreement does not result in inoperativeness of the whole agreement.
X. Legal domicile/applicable law
1. The agreement conditions are subject to Austrian law.
2. The customer can sue EUROBIKE - EUROFUN TOURISTIK only at its headquarters.
3. The customer's place of residence is decisive for the tour operator's suits against the customer, unless the suit is directed against entrepreneurs or persons that do not have a general legal domicile in Austria. In this case the tour operator's place of headquarters is decisive. Tour operator For all tours that are marked with the opposite seal the tour operator is: EUROBIKE - EUROFUNTOURISTIK GMBH A-5162 Obertrum am See EUROBIKE - EUROFUNTOURISTIK is the travel agent for all other tours.
