Spend the Summer Behind Bars: Head to Sölden for a Cycling Adventure at Bike Republic

Budding bikers or those looking for a taste of the increasingly popular two-wheel sport need look no further than Sölden – a high tech ski resort that transforms into a summer playground for adults and children alike.

Bike Republic is an unrivalled paradise for mountain bikers of all levels, and a milestone in the history of cycling in Tyrol. Most of the 15 trails have been formed naturally over the years by mountain farmers and shepherds and have now been enhanced for bikers of varying levels. In addition to the natural trails, 8 ‘shaped lines’ which snake down the mountain have been built and 14 ‘enduro routes’, a combination of uphill mountain bike routes and a natural trail or shaped line. The longest route is the Ollweite Line, which at 7km long, with a descent of 712 metres, is moderate in terms of difficulty.

Each trail and path is marked with a different level of difficulty in line with the colour system used for ski slopes. The 30 mountain restaurants and Alpine huts open during the summer provide a place to refuel and relax before setting off again or returning to 5* hotel Das Central by cable car. ‘Citizens’ of Bike Republic are issued with their own passport when buying a ticket. After completing a trail, citizens gain stamps which unlock biking goodies such as mud guards.

Das Central Hotel is a modern alpine escape located in the heart of Sölden – under an hour from Innsbruck Airport. In addition to cycling, Sölden is home to Area 47 – 95,000 sqm of action playground with over 35 outdoor and sport activities including blobbing, rafting, wakeboarding, a high rope course and zipline and canyoning.

Prices

1-day ticket to Bike Republic – €29 for an adult with the Ötztal Premium Card (normal price €39)

1-day bike hire for an adult (including a bike & protection) is from €64 with the Ötztal Premium Card (normal price from €79)