Waldviertel-Radweg Self-Guided: Stages, Accommodations & Map 2026
The Waldviertel Cycle Route R3 is a long-distance route running through the Waldviertel in Lower Austria. It takes you through the districts of Zwettl-Niederösterreich, Gmünd, Horn and Scheibbs and totals 305.5 km.
The Waldviertel Cycle Route R3 is a long-distance route in Lower Austria and comes in at 305.5 km. You ride a full loop through the Waldviertel, passing through the districts of Zwettl-Niederösterreich, Gmünd, Horn and Scheibbs. Based on the official route figures you’ll rack up 2400 metres of climbing and 3200 metres of descending in total — so expect rolling terrain and a few longer climbs, not flat “river path” cruising. If you’re reasonably fit and riding for the fun of it, that’s totally doable; on an e-bike the whole thing becomes a lot more relaxed. For kids or total beginners, the profile can feel tough pretty quickly, especially if you’re stacking up several days back-to-back. Planning your trip yourself, without a tour operator? Use these basics as a starting point for building your own stage plan and hunting down accommodation across the districts.
Route Profile
| Distance | 306 km |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Best Season | Spring, Summer, Autumn |
| Signage | unknown |
| Suitable For | Recreational cyclists, Experienced cyclists, E-bike |
| Surface | Mixed |
Waldviertel-Radweg Map
BikeTouri Tip: View the complete route on a map in BikeTouri – with all accommodations and supply points. Also available offline.
The Most Beautiful Section on the Waldviertel-Radweg
With the sources available, it wouldn’t be honest to pick a single “best section”: there are no official km markers, named subsections, or concrete highlights tied to specific parts of the route. What you can bank on, though, is a profile with plenty of bite — 2400 metres up and 3200 metres down across the whole loop. If you see climbing as a quality feature, that’s exactly why the Waldviertel Cycle Route is interesting; if you just want to roll along on the flat, it’ll feel like hard work.
Highlights on the Waldviertel-Radweg
- Long-distance cycle route through the Waldviertel in Lower Austria (R3).
- Total length: 305.5 km.
- Total elevation: 2400 m uphill and 3200 m downhill.
- Runs through the districts of Zwettl-Niederösterreich, Gmünd, Horn and Scheibbs.
Accommodations on the Waldviertel-Radweg
Along the Waldviertel-Radweg you'll find numerous accommodation options – from hotels and guesthouses to campsites and small tent meadows.
Campsites & Tent Options
Along the Waldviertel-Radweg there are numerous places to camp – from large campsites to small tent meadows on farms. Campsites usually don't need to be booked in advance.
Hotels & Guesthouses
Numerous accommodations along the route – from hostels and guesthouses to hotels. Important for cycle tourists: secure bike storage and no minimum stay requirements.
BikeTouri Tip: BikeTouri shows you all accommodations along the route – with prices, amenities, and reviews from cycle tourists. Also available offline.
Planning Your Waldviertel-Radweg Trip
What should you book in advance?
During peak season (June-August), it's recommended to book accommodations in popular stops 1-2 days ahead. Outside peak season, spontaneous booking is usually possible.
What can you decide spontaneously?
Daily distances, rest stops, restaurant visits, and detours to attractions can all be decided on the day based on weather and how you're feeling.
Typical daily costs
Practical Information
Getting There & Away
The route is well connected by train at both start and end points. Most regional trains accept bicycles, though reservations may be required during peak season.
Shopping Along the Way
Supermarkets and grocery stores can be found in most towns along the route. Plan for longer stretches in rural areas where shops may be limited.
Bike Shops & Repairs
Bicycle repair shops are available in larger towns. Carry basic tools and a spare tube for emergencies between service points.
More Information
Conclusion
At 305.5 km, the Waldviertel Cycle Route R3 gives you a long loop through the Waldviertel and adds up to 2400 metres of climbing. The upside is the sporty feel; the downside is that if you’re hunting for a flat beginner route, you’ll have to live with plenty of climbs. It works best for independent planners if you set your daily distances ruthlessly to match your fitness.
Why BikeTouri?
We don't just show the big campsites – but also small tent meadows, farms, and cyclist-friendly guesthouses. With prices, reviews from cycle tourists, and offline maps.