Isar-Radweg Self-Guided: Stages, Accommodations & Map 2026
The Isar Cycle Path follows the Isar from the source of the Große Isar in the Karwendelgebirge to its mouth into the Danube near Deggendorf. It runs through Tirol and Bayern and is signed in both directions.
The Isar Cycle Path runs for 315,5 km, taking you from the source of the Große Isar in the Karwendelgebirge all the way to where the Isar meets the Danube near Deggendorf. You stick with the river the whole time — sometimes right by the water, sometimes on parallel tracks — and you can ride it in either direction. What makes it work so well is how clearly it follows the Isar valley, plus the official claim that it’s largely traffic-free; on top of that, the route is signed consistently in both directions. If you feel like changing plans on the fly, there are plenty of real-world ride reports and GPX tracks for the Isar Cycle Path that make it easy to improvise. This one’s mainly for easygoing riders and families who’d rather cruise along a river than chase elevation; the only part that feels remotely sporty is the opening stretch in the Karwendel. Planning your own trip without a tour operator? Use the Isar Cycle Path as a simple backbone for your own stages and overnight stops.
Route Profile
| Distance | 316 km |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Best Season | Spring, Summer, Autumn |
| Signage | Well signposted |
| Suitable For | Families, Beginners, Recreational cyclists, E-bike, With children |
| Surface | Mixed |
Isar-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 Isar-Radweg
The section along the Isar near Scharnitz is a solid place to start if you want to experience the route right up at the upper reaches. You’re close to the river and the line is clear and easy to follow. Highlight: starting at the source of the Große Isar in the Karwendelgebirge — the moment a mountain stream turns into a long-distance cycle route.
Highlights on the Isar-Radweg
- Start at the source of the Große Isar in the Karwendelgebirge.
- Isar Cycle Path along the Isar near Scharnitz.
- Finish at the Isar’s mouth into the Danube near Deggendorf.
- Continuous signage in both directions.
Accommodations on the Isar-Radweg
Along the Isar-Radweg you'll find numerous accommodation options – from hotels and guesthouses to campsites and small tent meadows.
Campsites & Tent Options
Along the Isar-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 Isar-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
What the Isar Cycle Path really has going for it is the simple river-following logic, the two-way signage, and lots of kilometres that are largely away from traffic. The trade-offs: it’s not all asphalt, and the start in the Karwendel can feel a bit tougher than the rest.
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.