The hilly and quiet Bohemian Forest in the northernmost tip of Upper Austria's Mühlviertel is still a well-kept secret for cycling. In the granite and gneiss highlands along the borders with the Czech Republic and Germany, you’ll find many paths and peaceful places. While most people rush to the Alps, the landscapes here are relatively empty, characterised by vast forests, traditional farms, rushing streams, chapels and churches.

The official Bohemian Forest cycle path R27 is 30 kilometres (18 mi) long and runs between Schwarzenberg and Aigen-Schlägl. This Collection includes a 35-kilometre (21 mi) extension to bring you back to the starting point. It mostly follows other official cycle routes such as the Mühltal cycle route R806 and the Mühlviertelradweg R5.

The first stage starts in Schwarzenberg, which is accessible by car. This town is part of the popular Hochficht ski area, so you’ll find plenty of parking spaces here and nearby. Most of the day, you’ll explore the forest along the Austrian-Czech border, with the Moldovan reservoir Lipno just a stone's throw away. You’ll then cycle on asphalt and gravel to the Schwarzenberg Schwemmkanal, an idyllic section with lots of rest areas. Your journey ends in Aigen-Schlägl, which is known for its impressive monastery and brewery. You can spend the night here in one of the inns or in the monastery before taking the extension back to Schwarzenberg the next day. The connection to the Mühlviertelradweg R5 is another option.

The extension is characterised by an open and cultural landscape, wonderful views, climbs and various places of worship. From Aigen-Schlägl, you cycle via St. Wolfgang am Stein into the Kleine Mühl Valley – along one of the rivers that gives the Mühlviertel its name. Close to the border with Bavaria, you explore a colourful patchwork of forests, meadows and hamlets. The views over the Mühlviertel hills stretch far and wide. You cross the valley of the Große Mühl and return to Schwarzenberg.

This 60-kilometre (37 mi) loop is perfect for a weekend in the quiet landscape of northern Mühlviertel. You’ll notice that every region’s food and drink are different. So, don't miss out on any opportunity to stop off at the side of the road. :-)