Araburg

This loop, introduced to me by Jürgen, our doctor in the gruppo biciclette during the Corona crisis, takes a new approach toward Hainfeld in the Lilienfeld district. Unlike the usual route over the Gerichtsberg—a climb on a busy federal road—this variant transforms the loop into an outstanding ride.
Starting in Guntramsdorf, I first crossed Baden, admiring its historical buildings and the famous casino. Leaving the town, I headed through Helenental, best tackled outside peak traffic hours. After a few kilometers, I left the main road for the tour's first and steepest climb, Gutental-Zoblhof, which features gradients up to 13%. Crossing the plateau to Schwarzensee, I enjoyed a thrilling descent to Neuhaus, marking the end of the first challenging section.
Continuing west, I encountered a small hump (a "Schupfer," as we call it) leading to Hafnerberg with its picturesque church, well-known for weddings. After a short descent, I entered the Triestingtal, a valley named after the river running through it. Normally, this stretch involves the Gerichtsberg, but thanks to Jürgen’s insight, I veered off in Kaumberg for the Araburg climb, the ride’s true highlight.
The climb to Araburg felt like entering another world, winding through pristine nature, passing farms, and under the watchful gaze of grazing cows. At 700 meters, the top of the loop offered breathtaking views of Araburg. A steep descent into Ramsau followed, and from there, a few more kilometers led me to Hainfeld, the loop's westernmost point.
The return journey included several classic climbs: Klammhöhe Süd, Schöpfl/St. Corona, the geschriebene Buche from Klausenleopoldsdorf, and Wöglerin from Schusternazl. Finally, I rolled out onto the flatlands through Mödling, completing a ride packed with elevation and incredible scenery.
A big thanks to Jürgen for this unforgettable tip—an exceptional route for anyone who loves climbing and beautiful landscapes.

bike: Pretty Betty Specialized Tarmac S-Works
Starring: Gerry, Jürgen mentally