The first stage starts quite flat, preparing you for the following two days. As you would expect for a trip to the mountains, these stages have more elevation gain, especially the final stage. Because of this, bear in mind that the section between Kernhof and Mariazell may not be suitable for families with small children.

However, this route allows for many variations, useful if you are travelling with your kids in tow. For example, you can simply skip the section between Kernhof and Mariazell, finishing in the Camel Theatre just behind Kernhof instead. The Camel Theatre is a worthy destination and will most likely keep the little ones better entertained than the Mariazell Basilica.

You can cycle the three stages in the opposite direction downriver, which halves the ascents and allows you to take it easy. However, the section between Mariazell and Kernhof is still not very suitable for a family outing, unfortunately.

For the average cyclist, however, the Traisental cycle path should not present any problems, despite its somewhat more demanding elevation profile. Often you won't even notice the ascents thanks to the good condition of the path. The route is paved the whole way so you can bring your touring or racing bike along for the ride – just be aware of other cyclists and cycle at a safe pace. If you’re low on power, you’ll find plenty of opportunities along the way to replenish your energy reserves and try one or two (or more) local delicacies.

If you are used to long days on the bike and want to push yourself, you can combine the route into two stages or take a detour from the open countryside to Türnitz. Here, the cycle path runs along a former railway line, passing through several tunnels, so it’s also a nice choice for a small round with the family. For the two-day variant, an overnight stay in Hohenberg is a good option. Those who want to make the detour to Türnitz will find plenty of accommodation there, too.

Overall, all sections of the trail are well served by public transport. Traismauer, St. Pölten and Lilienfeld are all connected to the ÖBB railway network. Between Kernhof and St. Pölten, the bike hitchhiker bus runs once a day and you can take the Mariazellerbahn from Mariazell to St. Pölten. You are free to choose how you travel to and from your adventure as both the start and endpoint are well-connected. You could even extend your ride and cycle back to the Danube via the Ötscherland Cycle Route or the Ybbs Valley Cycle Route. (komoot.de/collection/913456)