Carinthian Lakeside

One of Austria's hidden natural gems; Carinthia's lush and unspoiled countryside is a land that has inspired the works of late-Romantic Austrian composer and conductor Gustav Mahler, scattered with medieval towns, Romanesque cathedrals and majestic onion-domed churches, it's easy to see the catalyst for his renowned classical masterpieces.Our new 8 night cycling sojourn through Austrian Carinthia glides along peaceful lake and riverside paths taking in Lake's Faakersee, Millstattsee, Ossiachersee, Worthersee and the river Drau. This entire region is delightful cycling terrain, a hidden gem in a nation blessed with natural attractions. It's a hybrid of Slovenian and Italian influence too, especially in the culinary arena with exemplary wine and cheeses to sample en route.Wild flowers abound, sweet scented pine forests, wild deer, swooping birds of prey, fire salamanders and fields of orchids, poppies and wild herbs all add to the photo-friendly floral vistas...