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2
introductory to moderate

Traveller Rating

 

Activities
  • self guided cycle
Accommodation
  • 7 nights in a 2 bed cabin on Main Deck
Meals
  • 7 Dinners
  • 6 Lunches
  • 7 Breakfasts

8 Days£1185GBP

View Inclusions

Overview

Trip Code: DBS

Trip highlights

  • Exploring the majestic city of Vienna and the three river town of Passau
  • Cycling through the stunning Wachau Valley and along the famous Danube bike path
  • Experiencing the timelessness of the Danube by boat and bike
  • Relaxing on board the comfortable barge, your home for the week

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.

Countries:

Germany & Austria

Starting Point:

Passau

Finishing Point:

Passau

Itinerary

Expand all | Collapse all

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

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

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.

Meals:  B,L,D

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.

Meals:  B,L,D

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.

Meals:  B,L,D

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.

Meals:  B,L,D

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.

Meals:  B,L,D

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

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.

Inclusions

What's included

  • 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners. The trip is based on full board which includes a buffet breakfast daily, 5 packed lunches, 1 full 3 course lunch and a 3 course dinner each night (2-3 choices for main course). Vegetarian or other dietary requirements are catered for but we ask that you advise this in advance (at least 21 days prior to the trip commencement).
  • 7 nights accommodation on board a deluxe category river boat. Price shown is for a 2 bed cabin on the Main Deck (lower deck). For other categories of berths in cabins on Middle (comfort or minisuite) or Upper (superior) decks - a supplement applies. All cabins are outside cabins with air-conditioning and ensuite facilities. There is 1 single cabin (main deck) and 1 mini suite (middle deck).
  • 21 or 24 speed bike rental with pannier and handlebar bag (children trailers (max 2 children, 40kgs) on request. A limited number of electric bikes are available for hire, approx 12-15 per departure - must be pre-booked and a supplement applies)
  • Information pack including route notes & maps per cabin, navigational app to use on your smartphone
  • Cruise director on board - does not cycle with the group, provides daily briefings
  • Welcome drink, farewell crew show, live music every night, gala dinner on last evening with farewell cocktail
  • Docking & harbour fees
  • Emergency hotline

  • Travel to and from Passau *Parking in Passau including transfer to and from the boat (reservation necessary, payable locally); Closed parking lot EUR75 approx, Parking garage EUR87 approx *Private or shuttle transfers from Munich Airport to Passau – price on request according to number of participants *Taxi costs between Passau train station to the boat dock - allow approx EUR10-20
  • Helmet. Optional rental (must be pre-booked & pre-paid) or purchase (payable locally but must be pre-booked) available - please request with your consultant
  • Bike insurance is available locally - allow EUR18 for hybrid bike, EUR50 for electric bike (subject to change)
  • Optional excursions - booked and paid locally - detailed information and pricing is provided on board:-*Linz: city tour with scenic train *Vienna: Hop On Hop Off bus, City tour by Bike, Concert Schönbrunn - Orangerie *Wachau valley: Wine tasting *Grein: Visit Austria's oldest theatre
  • Drinks other than afternoon tea and coffee on board, meals not detailed in the itinerary
  • Ferry rides (eg to cross the river by bike)
  • Entrance fees and sightseeing fees
  • Tips
  • Travel insurance - mandatory
  • Tour guide - this is a self guided tour. Guided cycling packages are available on select dates - supplement and additional inclusions apply. See below for details.
  • Single cabin, supplement applies
  • Supplement if bringing your own bike - ask us for details
  • Wifi (onboard surcharge applies from 100MB)
  • Ferry rides

Cabins

MV SWISS CROWN

Standard Cabin

Main deck outward facing cabin with a double bed that can be separated to make two single beds. Windows do not open. Cabins have shower/WC, hairdryer, SAT TV, safe, nespresso coffee maker and individually adjustable air conditioning.

MV SWISS CROWN

Comfort Cabin

Middle deck outward facing cabin with a double bed that can be separated to make two single beds. Windows can be opened. Cabins have shower/WC, hairdryer, SAT TV, safe, nesprsso coffee maker and individually adjustable air conditioning.

MV SWISS CROWN

Superior Cabin

Upper deck outward facing cabin with a balcony and opening window. A double bed that can be separated to make two single beds. Cabins have shower/WC, hairdryer, SAT TV, safe, nespresso coffee maker and individually adjustable air conditioning.

MV SWISS CROWN

Minisuite

Middle deck outward facing cabin with a double bed that can be separated to make two single beds. Windows can be opened. Cabins have shower/WC, hairdryer, SAT TV, safe, coffee maker, minibar and individually adjustable air conditioning.

Bike information

Rental Bike

During the trip you will be provided with a 21 or 24 speed bike with handbrakes. You will also receive a pannier to carry your gear for the day, along with a handlebar bag, bike computer, lock and repair kit (per cabin). Helmet rental is not included - please bring your own well-fitted helmet, or they are available for purchase or rent (additional cost applies - must be pre-booked).

Electric Bike

A limited number of electric bikes are available for an additional supplement. These must be requested at the time of booking or in advance. Our specially made 8-speed KTM or Flyer models increase your pedaling power 3 fold and allows cyclists of different athletic conditions to book a bike tour together.

Suitability

introductory to moderate

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 11.3in), as are bike seats (max 18kg/39lb 10.93137oz) and trailers (2 children, maximum 40kg/88lb 2.95oz), and tag-a-long bikes (minimum height is 120cm/3ft 11.3in). *For safety reasons, we insist that cycle helmets be included as a compulsory item on your equipment list.

Departure dates


Notes

M
Mid Season
H
High Season
1
Optional Guided cycle package available on these dates (supplement applies). Other dates are possible on request, for a minimum of 10 participants. For inclusions, please see the trip notes.
Note:
Mid season is 1 - 31 May and 1 Jul to 31 Aug. High season is 1 Jun - 30 Jun and 1 Sep - 30 Sep - supplement applies
Note:
Compulsory Fuel Surcharge may apply - payable locally
Note:
Base price is based on a standard twin share cabin on main deck. Please contact our office for prices on the range of cabins and deck levels available. It is possible to bring your own bike however a a supplement applies - please contact our office for details.

Priceper person from

£1185GBP

Options & Supplements*
  • Helmet rentalGBP£15
  • E-bike supplementGBP£90
  • Mid season supplement - Single standard cabin main deckGBP£150
  • Comfort cabin middle deck upgrade supplementGBP£170
  • Guided Cycle PackageGBP£190
  • Minisuite cabin middle deck upgrade supplement ppGBP£270
  • High season supplement - Single standard cabin main deckGBP£300
  • Superior cabin upper deck upgrade supplement ppGBP£360
  • Single use of cabin Supp - main deck standard - season supp appliesGBP£450
  • child under 13 (sharing main deck cabin with one adult) - season supp appliesGBP£850
*Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews

Why travel with us

Personal Experience

We've been walking and cycling the planet for over four decades and are passionate about delivering exceptional service. Combined, we’ve travelled to virtually every corner of Europe, and are eager to share the many benefits of travelling on foot or by bike.

Great Value & Quality

Our well priced trips offer great value for money. Included in your package are comprehensive route notes, maps & guide books along with bag transfers and locally run accommodation. We take the stress out of organising your holiday.

Self-Guided Specialists

We have been operating active self guided holidays since 1973. We handle all the necessary logistics so that you can relax and explore your destination at your own pace. Many of our tours depart daily, giving you even greater flexibility.

Videos

Explore the Danube River from Passau to Budapest on a Bike and Barge Tour | UTracks

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