10 YEARS OF LAKE.BIKE: ANNIVERSARY & 2026 BIKE SEASON IN VILLACH

The bike season in the Villach - Faaker See - Ossiacher See region is about to begin, and this year there’s even more reason to get excited. The regional cycling initiative lake.bike is celebrating its 10th anniversary and inviting riders of all ages to a season packed with trails, events, and shared experiences.

LAKE.BIKE – EVERYTHING ABOUT CYCLING IN THE VILLACH REGION

What started as a dedicated mountain bike initiative has grown into a comprehensive cycling brand that brings together mountain biking, gravel riding, road cycling, and a wide range of leisure activities. Since 2016, the focus has been on developing legal, high-quality MTB trails and tours throughout the region.

Today, an extensive network of cycling routes and trails runs through the entire destination, attracting mountain bikers, families, leisure riders, and road and gravel cyclists alike from spring through autumn. Highlights include 45 nature-focused MTB trails, two trail centers, three modern pump tracks, the Family Playground at Lake Ossiach, the Kids Bike Park on the Gerlitzen Alpe, and a selection of eleven Top Tours.

lake.bike stands for multi-generational cycling enjoyment between mountains and lakes. Thanks to the region’s unique Mediterranean-Alpine Alpe-Adria climate and nine crystal-clear lakes, including Lake Faaker See and Lake Ossiacher See, the biking season seamlessly blends into the swimming season, inviting visitors to cool off in the water well into autumn.

For a fully bike-friendly stay, twelve specially certified accommodations, known as lake.bike BASECAMPS, offer high-quality lodging with secure bike storage and fully equipped workshops.

THE 2026 BIKE SEASON

A GRADUAL START TO THE SEASON

The 27 trails at the Faaker See Trail Center have been open since April 1st, 2026, offering primarily sporty lines and alpine terrain. The Ossiacher See Trail Center follows on May 1st with 17 trails – a dream for all panorama fans. Whether you’re on an eMTB, enduro bike, or even a balance bike, the focus is on shared experiences. Families, beginners, and groups of friends can explore the trails in a fun and accessible way, while more advanced riders can refine their skills.

The trail centers remain open through autumn, until October 31st at Lake Ossiacher See and November 15th at Lake Faaker See. Day passes as well as 4-day, 7-day, and season tickets are available. These not only grant access but also contribute directly to trail maintenance. Children under six ride for free. Tickets can be purchased online or at the tourist information offices in Villach, Faaker See, Sattendorf, and Ossiach. Marked MTB tours outside the trail centers are free to use.

10 YEARS OF LAKE.BIKE – THE BIG ANNIVERSARY

The 10th anniversary of lake.bike will be celebrated from July 2nd to 5th, 2026 – right where it all began: on the trails! The weekend is all about the community with group rides, opportunities to connect with fellow riders, and celebrations with partners and guests. The main anniversary will take place on July 2nd,with more information to follow.

CAMPS, RACES & CYCLING EVENTS

In addition to the anniversary festivities, the 2026 calendar is packed with events for all ages and skill levels:

• Velovista(April 25–May 3): A nine-day cycling festival featuring guided panoramic tours through the region’s stunning landscapes.
• 21st Krone Cyclists' & Skaters' Adventure Day Ossiacher See car-free(May 3): A car-free day around Lake Ossiach, where the 27 km circular route is reserved exclusively for cyclists and skaters.
• Children's XCO Race Ossiacher See (May 9): Young riders can take their first steps into racing with fun cross-country competitions.
• Mountain Bike Riding Technique Camp(May 14–17): Improve your riding technique in a relaxed camp atmosphere at Lake Faaker See.
• Women's Bike Camp(May 14–17): Tailored coaching and tours designed specifically for female mountain bikers.
• Carinthia200(May 31): A new road cycling event covering 125–200 km on closed roads along Carinthian lakes and valleys.
• Children's Pump Track Competition in Drobollach (June 13): Young riders showcase their skills on the pump track at Lake Faaker See.
• Gegendtaler MTB Race(June 20): A competitive off-road race for young mountain bikers.
• ROSA200(June 26–27): road cycling experience with Giro flair – complete with scenic routes and well-earned pasta stops.
• MTB Boys Bike Camp (July 5–10): Trail riding, skills training, and new friendships for young riders.
• MTB Girls Bike Camp (August 16–21): A dedicated camp for girls to discover mountain biking and build confidence on the trails.
• Bucketride Festival(September 24–27): A laid-back end-of-season festival combining biking, camping, and community under the motto “No Party, only good times.”
• Children's XCO Race Faaker See (October 10): Another chance for kids to experience racing in a fun and supportive setting.
• Enduro National Championships(October 9–11): Austria’s top riders compete on challenging courses at the Faaker See Trail Center.

The lake.bike anniversary year promises a diverse season full of cycling highlights and community spirit. Whether you’re chasing performance, adventure, or simply a scenic ride, the region offers something for everyone. See you on the trails!