Sale
8 Days
From
From IntroductoryTo Challenging
Europe's second longest river, the Danube, courses through ten nations en route to the Black Sea. This itinerary follows its journey through some of the most romantic European landscapes. From the cobblestone streets of charming Passau head out into Austria, winding your way past enchanting monasteries and majestic castles. By boat cruise the Danube through Upper Austria to reach the romantic Austrian capital of Vienna, one of the most magical cities in Europe. Heading west, the pace slows down, with a memorable cycle across the Wachau Valley past rolling vineyards, hill top castles, meadows and forests to encounter atmospheric landscapes and sites of arresting history. Enjoy the atmosphere of life on board with like minded active travellers, sampling local culinary delights and relaxing atop the sundeck with splendid views of the changing scenery.
Germany & Austria
Passau
105kg of CO2-e PP per day
(737kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
Expand all | Collapse all
Day 1
Arrive Passau (Germany)
Boarding is at 4:00pm (luggage drop-off from 3pm is possible) and the boat will depart at approximately 5:30pm to the next location. Located at the junction of three rivers, the Danube, Inn and Ilz, Passau has a number of interesting sites including the Fortress “Veste Oberhaus” built in 1219 where there is an observation tower for a good view of the town and the river and St. Stevens Cathedral with the world’s largest church organ. Cruise during the night through the Danube Valley.
Meals: D
Day 2
Cycle to Brandstatt from Engelhartszell (45km/28mi)
This morning you will receive your bikes for the trip. Today's cycle tour takes you directly along the banks of the Danube, with plenty of time to enjoy the landscape as you cycle. You'll explore the pristine countryside of the Upper Danube valley on the former towpath as it runs past sleepy villages. Small, rustic inns at the edge of the trail invite you to linger, and the aroma of fresh fish traditionally grilled might waft through the air. The Schlögener Blick observation point offers a truly stunning view of the Schlögener Schlinge where the Danube carves its way through a gorge and doubles back on itsellf. Overnight Brandstatt.
Meals: B,L,D
Day 3
Cycle to Linz (24km/15mi)
Today the tour continues along the banks of the Danube to reach the Upper Austrian capital of Linz. Here you can discover the European Capital of Culture 2009 on a bright yellow miniature train (optional). The cathedral is the largest in Austria, the Pöstlingbergbahn is the steepest adhesion railway in the world. At the ARS Electronica Museum you can try out some of the most impressive examples of modern technology. Alternatively relax and enjoy the charms of this atmospheric town. Overnight Linz.
Day 4
Cycle Tulln to Vienna (31km/19mi)
Today you will arrive in Vienna and in the afternoon have free time to explore the beautiful city. Right in front of Vienna's entrance and surrounded by breathtaking scenery is the monastery of Klosterneuburg. "Kahlenbergerdorf" with its wine taverns is only a hop from the pier and definitely worth a visit. After a stroll through the vineyards, you can enjoy the panoramic view over Vienna. You will be provided with information to plan your sightseeing or there's an optional city tour by bus in the afternoon passing most of the numerous and famous sights and a guided walking tour though the historic centre of Austria’s capital (optional, not included). There are many famous places of interest to explore including the Prater, St Stephens Cathedral and the Hofburg Palace.
Day 5
Rest day Vienna
Today you are free to explore Vienna. You can take a city tour of Vienna's sights from the saddle of your bike or on the HOP ON HOP OFF bus (optional). The magnificent Ringstraße will remind you of times long past and inviting coffee houses will tempt you with delicious Viennese cakes and pastries, while the Naschmarket market is a feast for all the senses. End the evening on a magical note with a concert of waltz and classical operetta music in Sisi’s summer residence (optional). Late departure from Vienna and cruise towards Krems.
Day 6
Wachau valley from Krems to Melk (37km/23mi)
Enjoy an unforgettable day in the picturesque Wachau. Today you will cycle through delightful wine-growing villages surrounded by terraced vineyards and apricot trees from Krems to Melk. The charming little town of Dürnstein with its narrow lanes is a highlight. In In Spitz - one of the most famous wine-growing villages in the World Cultural Heritage Landscape - you can discover the first rate famous Wachau wines.
Day 7
Cycle Grein to Mauthausen via Mitterkirchen (36km/22mi)
Continue along the banks of the Danube, again enjoying the landscape as you cycle. A beautiful and diverse route awaits, offering a wide range of experiences. Starting from the medieval town of Grein (home to Austria's oldest theatre, visit optional), cycle through the picturesque hinterland of the Strudengau region. With a bit of luck, you may even be personally guided through the romantic Clam Castle by the castle's lord. Additionally, you'll take a journey back in time at the Celtic Village in Mitterkirchen. The Mauthausen Memorial, is situated on a hill near the town.
Day 8
Cruise to Passau and disembark, trip concludes
Enjoy the first rays of sun and the early morning tranquillity one last time from the deck before we reach Passau/surrounds. Disembarkation will be at approx. 11.00am. We recommend that you do not make any arrangements for onward travel departing before Midday to be on the safe side, later departure times would be even better.
Meals: B
What's included
What's not included
During the trip you will be provided with a 21 or 24 speed bike with handbrakes. You will also receive a pannier, along with a handlebar bag, bike computer, lock and repair kit (per room). In the case of a puncture the assumption is that you can repair. You will be given a proper puncture repair kit, which will enable you to solve the problem.
A limited number of electric bikes are available for an additional supplement. These must be requested at the time of booking or in advance. These are 8-speed KTM or Flyer models that increase your pedalling power and allows cyclists of different athletic conditions to book a bike tour together. Please note that e-bikes are heavier than normal bikes and given the higher speed possible, should only be ridden by confident cyclists. Note: Frame sizes 43/45/50cm - minimum height 153cm. E-bikes are not fitted with odometers.
Usually along paved cycle paths across generally flat terrain. The itinerary is almost exclusively on the Danube cycle path. In and out of the cities there will be some traffic.
GRADE 2 - This trip involves 5 days cycling usually along paved cycle paths across generally flat terrain up to 50km / 31mi in a day. It is almost exclusively on the Danube cycle path. In and out of the cities there will be some traffic. You need only carry your camera/rain gear and water bottle. Your luggage remains on the boat. For this reason the trip is a Grade 2 cycle and is considered suitable for beginners and children. A limited number of children's bikes are available (minimum height 120cm / 3ft 11in), as are bike seats (max 18kg / 40lb) and trailers (2 children, max 40kg / 88lb). *For safety reasons, we insist that cycle helmets be included as a compulsory item on your equipment list.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
|
Personal Experience
We've been exploring the world on foot for over five decades, and our passion for walking runs deep. Having hiked nearly every corner of Europe, we take pride in sharing the joy, freedom and perspective that only travelling on foot can bring, all with the exceptional service and care our travellers know us for.
Great Value & Quality
Our trips offer excellent value for money, with everything you need for a seamless walking holiday. Each package includes detailed route notes, maps and navigation app, luggage transfers, and comfortable locally run accommodation. We take care of the planning, so you can simply enjoy the walk.
Self-Guided Specialists
We've been operating self-guided active holidays since 1973, taking care of every detail so you can relax and explore at your own pace. With many walking and hiking tours departing daily, you'll enjoy the freedom and flexibility to travel when it suits you.
self guided walk
hotel, guesthouse
8Days
Moderate
self guided cycle
hotel, inns
Introductory to Moderate
barge
Introductory