By Bike

Day 12 (15^th August) – Lienz.

Lienz is located in a stunning setting at the confluence of the Isel and Drava rivers (tributaries of the Danube). To the north is the Hohe Tauern range and national park, the largest protected area in the Alps and Großglockner, Austria’s highest peak. To the south are the Lienz Dolomites, which are in fact not dolomite, nor part of the Dolomites chain in northern Italy, rather karst.

We decided to spend the day pottering in town, checking out local attractions and cuisine.

Turns out it is Assumption Day, a significant public holiday commemorating the Assumption of the Virgin Mary into Heaven and has been a recognised feast since the 5th century. A very important day for Tyroleans, 87% of whom are Roman Catholics.

Most shops and offices remain closed, allowing residents and visitors to participate in the celebrations.

So we wandered about the quiet streets checking out the local architecture then headed back to our camp to rest and enjoy the sweltering afternoon.