Whenever a new cycle path is created, it's always a great moment for the world. That's why today we're happy to present a new route born in Tyrol , in the heart of the Austrian Alps, specifically in the Stubai Valley . The new cycle path extends for 40 kilometers there and back along the Ruetz stream , on asphalt and always gentle slopes, and offers spectacular views of glaciers and mountains over 3.000 meters, through forests and alpine meadows.
It connects five small valley villages, previously linked only by a single road open to traffic, and also offers a direct connection to the capital Innsbruck and the major international Alpine routes. The Stubai Cycle Route 19 , as it is officially called, was inaugurated in October 2025 after seven years of planning and construction, and is now ready to welcome everyone for its first season.
Families, local commuters, enthusiasts e-bike, gravel and road bikes: starting today, anyone can enjoy this new slow infrastructure between the Alps and the rest of the world. Learn more We contacted David Wallner, project manager of the new Stubai Cycle Route 19.
How did the idea of building this cycle path come about?
There was a strong desire in the Stubai Valley to create a continuous network of cycle paths along the valley floor , completely separated from the main roads. Previously, cyclists were mostly forced to ride in traffic. Furthermore, the goal was to connect this local route to the international cycle network . And now, with the completion of the Stubai Radroute, we can say both of these goals have been achieved.
How does it connect with the other directions?
In Fulpmes, at the Kirchbrücke bridge, the route opens in several directions. Variant 19a starts northwards, the quietest and most natural of the entire itinerary, immersed in meadows and woods up to Stefansbrücke in Innsbruck. Towards the south, however, the connection leads over the Brenner Pass, up to Italy. Route 19 thus becomes a central axis between the Inn Cycle Path to the north and the Brenner Cycle Path to the south and includes the Stubai Valley among the destinations of the great bikepacking Alpine. Along the entire route then You can find repair stations, sporting goods shops and refreshment points, which truly make it an infrastructure designed to be equipped and safe for anyone who wants to travel on it.
What difficulties are there in building a cycle path in a mountainous area like yours?
Because we're dealing with a narrow valley, there are often very few options for route planning. Furthermore, the project affected over 100 private landowners . Consequently, considerable time was required to negotiate and finalize agreements with each of them.
Is it paved or dirt? What is its elevation?
The bike path is entirely paved . This is necessary to increase cyclist safety and keep long-term maintenance costs within reasonable limits.
What do you think are the most beautiful and interesting parts of the new cycle path?
In my opinion, the most panoramic sections are the start from Stephansbrücke in Telfes , as well as the section from Neustift to Klaus Äuele, not to forget the one further up, facing the glaciers.
What's the current situation with cycling tourism in the valley? Do you get many visitors? Families or more adventurous tourists?
Currently, cycling is perceived as a complementary offering. Generally, tourists don't come to the Stubai Valley specifically for cycling. However, we have observed that Cycling is becoming increasingly important alongside traditional hikingMore and more guests are bringing their own e-bike to follow the newly designed path or the forest paths that lead to the mountain huts. The target audience is largely made up of families and individuals looking for a “sweet” experience of hiking and cycling.
How much of an increase do you expect from this new bike path?
We hope this route will make the overall leisure offering in the Stubai Valley significantly more attractive and diverse . Furthermore, we hope the connection to the international cycling network will attract many more cyclists to the valley.
How important is cycling in the Tyrolean region?
In Tyrol, cycling tourism is held in high regard and its popularity grows every yearThis is mainly thanks to the e-bike, which have made our easily accessible mountains to a much larger portion of people.
