Almost 2,000 riders at the premiere of Carinthia’s new road cycling highlight
August 19, 2026
On 20 September, Villach will host Austria’s most ambitious new road cycling event – on roads fully closed to traffic, framed by mountains, lakes and Mediterranean flair
Villach, September 2026. Carinthia200 will celebrate its premiere on 20 September 2026 – and it is making a powerful debut: Almost 2,000 riders from 24 nations will line up at the start in Villach. The international response, even before the first starting signal, shows the event’s potential. The organisers have set a clear goal: Carinthia200 aims to become Austria’s largest road cycling event and further strengthen Carinthia’s position as a cycling destination.
Carinthia200 stands out from the outset because its routes run on roads completely closed to traffic – a hallmark of quality that sets amateur road cycling events apart internationally and guarantees participants a safe, uncompromising riding experience.
Two distances are available: the flagship Carinthia200 covering almost 200 kilometres with 2,731 metres of elevation gain, and Carinthia105 covering 105 kilometres with 1,304 metres of elevation gain. The Villach – Faaker See – Ossiacher See region provides the ideal setting. Mountains and lakes combine to create varied terrain, from fast, flat sections along the lakes to demanding climbs – everything a road cyclist could want. Its location south of the main Alpine ridge adds another advantage: the mild, Mediterranean-influenced climate makes the region one of the Alps’ most reliable road cycling destinations, including in late summer and autumn.
For Georg Overs, Managing Director of the Villach – Faaker See – Ossiacher See region, Carinthia200 marks the next logical step in a long-term strategy:
“For ten years, we have successfully established our lake.bike brand with a clear focus on mountain biking. Carinthia200 now extends that profile into road cycling. The combination of mountains, lakes and a Mediterranean climate makes our region the perfect terrain for road cyclists. An event of this scale provides a strong boost for tourism extending far beyond the event weekend.”
Georg Overs, Managing Director, Villach – Faaker See – Ossiacher See region
The State of Carinthia is fully behind the new event. Governor of Carinthia and Minister for Sport, Ing. Daniel Fellner:
“It’s my Ride! I am convinced that anyone who loves road cycling will love Carinthia200. As Governor and Minister for Sport, I am doubly delighted that the organisers are using the outstanding road network around Villach for the premiere. The course will thrill participants, as will the surrounding landscape, where lakes, mountains and Mediterranean flair come together. I wish the event every success at its debut, and I am keeping my fingers crossed that Carinthia200 inspires road cyclists and soon becomes an essential fixture on the calendar.”
Ing. Daniel Fellner, Governor of Carinthia and Minister for Sport
Carinthia’s Tourism Minister Sebastian Schuschnig highlights the event’s economic and tourism significance:
“The premiere of Carinthia200 is a highlight on Carinthia’s events calendar and reinforces our role as a key cycling destination in the Alps-Adriatic region. High-calibre events like this generate tangible added value for the entire regional economy and are a major driver of local value creation.
Carinthia is becoming an increasingly attractive year-round holiday destination, offering exceptional experiences well beyond the summer months. Events such as Carinthia200 are the best example. I wish all participants unforgettable moments along the route and every success in this sporting challenge.”
Sebastian Schuschnig, Tourism Minister of the State of Carinthia
A look at the start list shows that Carinthia200 is already making an impact far beyond cycling circles at its premiere. Numerous former elite athletes are taking on the challenge, including:
Their participation underlines what Carinthia200 aims to be: an event for everyone who loves cycling, from ambitious amateurs to sporting legends.
Anyone who wants to be part of the premiere needs to act fast: Only 50 places remain. Registration is available exclusively online at www.carinthia200.com while places last.
| Date | Sunday, 20 September 2026 |
| Start/finish | Villach, Carinthia |
| Field | Almost 2,000 participants from 24 nations – only 50 places remaining |
| Routes | Carinthia200: almost 200 km / 2,731 m elevation gain · Carinthia105: 105 km / 1,304 m elevation gain |
| Key feature | Roads fully closed to traffic |
| Website | www.carinthia200.com |
PPG Pedal Performance Group GmbH
Julius Rupitsch
| +43 680 2339195 | www.carinthia200.com
Caritnthia200 – 2025 – All rights reserved
web: Viktor
Only 50 spots left for Carinthia200!
Secure your place now and be on the start line on September 20.
Status: August 16, 2026
