Carinthia with the convertible
Carinthia, the southernmost state of Austria, is a true paradise for nature and culture lovers. Crystal-clear lakes, gentle hills, impressive mountain landscapes, and charming towns invite you to a varied convertible tour. On this trip, you will experience both Mediterranean flair by the lakes and the tranquility of historic valleys as well as the power of the mountains.
Overview of the Route
The tour starts in Spittal an der Drau, leading through Millstatt, Villach, Velden am Wörthersee, Pörtschach am Wörthersee, Klagenfurt, and Straßburg in Carinthia, finally ending in Gurk. This route connects the most beautiful lakes of Carinthia with cultural highlights, charming villages, and impressive landscapes. Along the way, there are numerous opportunities for short hikes, photo stops, and culinary experiences.
First Stage: Spittal an der Drau and Millstatt
The journey begins in Spittal an der Drau, a town with a historic center and the Renaissance castle Porcia. Those who are out early can stroll through the pedestrian zone or enjoy a coffee in the town square. Next, we continue to Millstatt, a picturesque place on Lake Millstatt. The lakeside promenade invites you to stroll, while cafés, restaurants, and small ice cream shops tempt you to take a break. Nearby the lake, you will find hidden coves, ideal for a picnic or a refreshing stop. If you're in the mood for some exercise, you can also cycle around Lake Millstatt or take a small boat tour.
Second Stage: Villach
From Millstatt, the route leads to Villach, the second-largest city in Carinthia. The old town, with its baroque buildings, colorful facades, and charming town square, is a perfect stopover. If desired, you can climb the Dobratsch, a local mountain with spectacular views of the Drau Valley and the Julian Alps. For those interested in culture, a visit to the Villach City Museum or a stroll through the Villach weekly market, where regional products and specialties are offered, is worthwhile. Villach combines urban flair with nature, allowing you to enjoy both directly.
Third Stage: Velden am Wörthersee and Pörtschach
Continuing along Lake Wörthersee, we head to Velden, known for its elegant promenade, Velden Castle, and vibrant summer life. The roads along the lakeshore offer fantastic views of the turquoise water and the surrounding mountains. The tour then leads to Pörtschach, a charming spa town with small boutiques, cafés, and restaurants. Nearby hiking trails, small coves, and cycling routes invite you to enjoy a relaxed walk, a short bike ride, or a boat trip. If you have time, you can visit the Casino Velden or the historic church tower in Pörtschach for a touch of culture.
Fourth Stage: Klagenfurt am Wörthersee
From Pörtschach, we head to Klagenfurt, the capital of Carinthia. The historic center, with the Lindworm Fountain, elegant squares, and pedestrian zone, invites you to take a stroll. If you have time, you can visit the city park or simply enjoy the view over the lake from a terrace. A visit to Minimundus Park is especially worthwhile, where miniature models of famous buildings from around the world are on display. The combination of city life and nature makes Klagenfurt a perfect stop.
Fifth Stage: Straßburg and Gurk
The route continues to Straßburg in Carinthia, an idyllic village with traditional architecture, small chapels, and a tranquil atmosphere. A walk through the alleys or a visit to a local inn is worthwhile to taste Carinthian specialties. After that, we head to Gurk, famous for the Gurk Cathedral, one of the most significant Romanesque buildings in Austria. A stop here is a must for any culture enthusiast, and you can linger in the quiet surrounding alleys or visit the historic parish library.
Tips for the Convertible Tour
Plan enough time to truly enjoy the landscapes, cities, and villages. The best travel time is from May to September when the weather is stable, and the roads are optimally passable. Sunscreen, light clothing, and a jacket for cooler mountainous regions belong in your luggage. Along the way, numerous inns and restaurants invite you to take culinary breaks – regional specialties such as cheese noodles, Reindling, Carinthian dumplings, or fresh fish from the lakes should definitely be tried.
Conclusion – Driving through Carinthia in a Convertible
Carinthia is a region full of diversity: crystal-clear lakes, gentle hills, historic towns, and charming villages. Traveling in a convertible means enjoying the freedom to stop spontaneously, experience the landscape up close, and intensely feel the regional culture. The combination of nature, culture, and culinary highlights makes this tour an unforgettable experience that everyone should definitely experience at least once.
