Day 1 — Toblach → San Candido: a gentle start in the Puster Valley
🚲 Start in Toblach/Dobbiaco, finish in San Candido/Innichen. About 33 km at a very comfortable pace along the upper part of the Drava cycle path, if you include a beautiful loop via Lake Toblach and quiet valley sections before checking in. Actual riding time is about 2–2.5 hours, with little elevation gain, roughly up to 150–250 m including local detours and leisurely side rides. The surface is mostly excellent: separate bike paths, asphalt, some compact gravel, and short stretches of quiet local roads. Main stops along the way: Lake Toblach, the center of San Candido, and convenient spots near the stations in Toblach and Innichen. The easiest places to refill water and grab a snack are Toblach, the station area, and San Candido itself, where there are many cafés, bakeries, and shops. It is best to stay overnight in San Candido or near the station/route so that the next morning you can immediately set out on the long but easy ride to Lienz. Road nuances: in May and after heavy rain, mornings in the valley can be chilly, and in high season there are many pedestrians and rental e-bikes on family-friendly sections, so it is better to keep your speed relaxed. The day is realistic for an average cycle tourist because it lets you pick up or adjust a rental bike, calmly check your fit, brakes, luggage, and avoid overloading the first day.