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The Rhine River flows from high in the Swiss Alps through five countries and the majestic Lake Constance, to reach a vast delta in the Netherlands. This relaxed pace cycle based on board the MS Switzerland includes some of the most beautiful sections of the river between Koblenz and Worms. Starting in either Koblenz, located at the meeting point of the Rhine and Moselle rivers or Mainz with its half timbered houses, take in the classic scenery as you gently pedal past majestic vineyards and mystic castle ruins. After your day cycling and visiting the sights, your comfortable floating hotel provides the fabulous advantage of only having to pack and unpack once. The journey by bike and on board the boat takes you through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Middle Rhine Valley with its picturesque small towns, coloured half-timbered gable buildings and legendary castles. Short cycle tours through the idyllic landscape and plenty of time to discover each town, make this journey a particularly good option for first time cycle tourists.
Germany
Koblenz or Mainz
Mainz or Koblenz
99kg of CO2-e PP per day
(695kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
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Day 1
Arrive Koblenz
On arrival in Koblenz, make your way to the dock to board the MS Switzerland - embarkation is from 4pm. Located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers, Koblenz has been an important defence centre for the region over its more than 2000 year history. Its impressive fortifications are still in good condition today and it’s worth exploring these, as well as the old town with its ancient churches and winding streets.
Meals: D
Day 2
Cycle to Boppard (23km/14mi)
In the morning you begin cycling to Boppard. Enjoy the panoramic view of the unforgettable Upper Middle Rhine Valley (or Rhine Gorge) a UNESCO World Heritage site. Cycle alongside the river, surrounded by vineyards and castle ruins. + 40m/131ft - 38m/124ft
Meals: B,L,D
Day 3
Cycle to Oberwesel (20km/12.5mi)
From Boppard, you cycle along the Rhine to Oberwesel. On this short stage you'll pass by many scenic viewpoints from where you can enjoy the varied landscape. From the banks of the river, the many fortresses and the legendary Loreley cliff offer a picturesque backdrop all along the way. + 139m/456ft, - 72m/236ft
Day 4
Cycle to Rüdesheim / Bingen (25km/15mi)
The cycle today takes you from Oberwesel past slate cliffs and through dense forests to sights including the Pfalzgrafenstein Castle near Kaub and the Niederwald Monument. Today's destination is the wine town of Bingen, and Rudesheim across the river. Here we suggest that you visit the world-famous Drosselgasse. + 70m/229ft, -62m/203ft
Day 5
Cycle to the delightful town of Mainz (30km/19mi)
On this stretch, the Rhine River again shows all of its beauty. Ride past Eltville am Rhein, where the Electoral Castle is well worth a visit. Continue to Mainz, home to numerous impressive buildings. You may want to visit St Martin's Cathedral, one of the proud imperial cathedrals in Germany, or the Electoral Palace. Lined with beautiful half-timbered buildings and wine taverns, pretty narrow lanes and marvellous squares like the Augustinerstraße and the Kirschgarten Square, a stroll through the Old Town is highly recommended. + 45m/147ft, - 40m/131ft
Day 6
Continue cycle to Nierstein (17-26km/12-16mi), cruise to Worms
A short stage allowing lots of time to take it slowly and absorb the beautiful views. Directly alongside the Rhine, you cycle on the well-paved Rhine Cycle Route to Nierstein. With almost 1.000 hectares of vineyard surface area, Nierstein is the biggest wine-growing municipality on the Rhine. You may also want to visit the historic Old Town with its medieval market square and the noble houses. In the afternoon, enjoy the boat tour from Nierstein to Worms. + 16m/52ft, -15m/49ft
Day 7
Cycle to Nierstein, cruise to Mainz (37km/24mi)
Today's cycle begins from Worms, the city of the Nibelungs. Following the banks of the Rhine, you will have again the possibility to fall for the charms of the vineyards and to enjoy the scenery along the river. Coming from the south, you cycle towards Nierstein, also referred to as the Riesling City. In the evening, cruise to Mainz for your last night on board. 37m/121ft, -40m/131ft
Day 8
Trip concludes Mainz
Trip concludes after breakfast with disembarkation at 9:00am.
Meals: B
Arrive Mainz
On arrival in Mainz, make your way to the dock to board the MS Switzerland - embarkation is from 4pm. Time permitting, you can visit the old town of Mainz, with its lovely alleys and public squares.
Cycle to Nierstein (17-26km/12-16mi), cruise to Worms
A short cycle leg with lots of time to indulge. Follow the Rhine Cycle Route with its well-paved cycle ways directly alongside the river to Nierstein. With almost 1,000 hectares of vineyards, Nierstein is home to the largest wine-growing community on the Rhine. Visit the historic Old Town with its medieval market square and the noble houses. In the afternoon, enjoy the boat tour from Nierstein to Worms. +16m/52ft, -15m/49ft
Cycle Worms to Nierstein, cruise to Mainz (37km/24mi)
Today's cycling stage begins from Worms, the city of the Nibelungs. Riding along the banks of the Rhine, you can again enjoy the charm of the vineyards and the scenery along the river. Coming from the south, you cycle towards Nierstein, also referred to as the Riesling City. From there, re-board the boat and cruise to Mainz. +37m/121ft, -40m/131ft
Cycle Mainz to Rüdesheim (32km/19.9mi)
On this stretch, the Rhine again shows its beauty. The picturesque landscape features stunning Rhine islands, towering slate cliffs, and flourishing vineyards, particularly in the vicinity of Rüdesheim. During your bike excursion, journey through Eltville with its electoral castle and Oestrich-Winkel, where a historic wine loading crane stands as a distinctive landmark, until you reach Rüdesheim. Here, we recommend exploring the Drosselgasse. +61m/200ft, -66m/216ft
Cycle to Oberwesel (26km/16.1mi)
Cycle from Rüdesheim in the morning, pedalling past dense forests and scenic vineyards, tracing the course of the Rhine. Along the way you'll encounter landmarks such as the Niederwald Monument and Pfalzgrafenstein Castle, before reaching today's destination, Oberwesel. +45m/147ft, -53m/173ft
Continue cycling to Boppard (20km/12.4mi)
From Oberwesel, set out on a short ride along the Rhine towards Boppard. There are numerous scenic vantage points, allowing you to appreciate the varied landscape. From the banks of the river, the many fortresses and the legendary Loreley cliff offer a picturesque backdrop all along the route. +124m/406ft, -125m/410ft
Cycle from Boppard to Koblenz (22km/13.7mi)
On your last cycling day, ride from Boppard to Koblenz, where the Moselle River converges with the Rhine. As you make your way, pass by notable landmarks including the Marksburg Castle in Braubach and Stolzenfels Castle. Conclude your day at the Deutsche Eck, also known as the German Corner, or extend your ride to the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, where you can relish the panoramic view of the city of Koblenz. +62m/203ft, -65m/213ft
Departure from Koblenz
After breakfast, disembarkation until 09:00 am.
What's included
What's not included
Main Deck
All cabins boast en-suite bathroom, hair dryer, telephone, TV, individual air conditioning/heating, fridge and safe.
On the Main Deck, the cabins have a large panoramic window which cannot be opened.
Limited number of single and double cabins available on both decks.
Upper Deck
2-bed-cabins (approx. 11m2) with panoramic windows which can be opened.
* four 2-bed-cabins of bigger size at the stern of the ship (upper rear: engine and generator noise when ship is in motion and in locks, approx. 12m2, three of them feature twin beds)
*two single cabins (approx. 9m2).
Bicycles provided are 7 speed touring bikes with bike rack, panniers and repair kit and handbrake and/or backpedal brake. Helmet rental is not included but they are mandatory on all bike tours, so you will need to bring your own well-fitted helmet. A limited number of helmets are available for purchase onboard - eur45 per helmet, cash only, brand: UVEX I-VO.
An electric bike is available on request. A supplement applies, see below.
Electric bikes, or e-bikes, are designed to make cycling easier. The pedaling ‘boost’ provided by an e-bike opens up more options, allowing people of different fitness levels to cycle together or for cyclists to take on routes they may otherwise consider too tough for their current fitness capabilities. Please note that e-bikes are heavier than normal bikes and given the higher speed possible, should only be ridden by confident cyclists. Minimum age for e-bike rental is 12 years and a minimum height requirement is 148cm / 4ft10in. Unisex frame.
GRADE 1 - This trip involves 6 days cycling of between 17km and 46km/10.5 to 28.5mi per day usually along paved cycle paths across generally flat terrain. Distances provided daily are provided as a guide only and may change according to the location of the boat. In and out of the cities there will be some light traffic. You need only carry your camera/rain gear and water bottle. Your luggage remains on the boat. For this reason the trip is graded introductory and is considered suitable for beginners. There is not an age restriction for children on this trip however travellers should be aware that there is no program for children and no small bicycles on board, you will need to bring your own bicycle, and be responsible for them at all times. *For safety reasons, we insist that cycle helmets be included as a compulsory item on your equipment list.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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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 cycle
hotel, inns
8Days
Introductory to Moderate
barge
Introductory
guided cycle
9Days