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Europe

Alpine Rhine Cycle

All content by World Expeditions

7 days (Konstanz)

Destinations visited: Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, Germany

  • introductory to moderate

from
USD$1,390

A spectacular cycle through four countries from the Grisons in Switzerland to Lake Constance in Germany

The Grisons, or Graubünden as they are referred to by the Swiss, are known for the fabled ski resorts of St Moritz and Klosters and are considered by many as Switzerlands most beautiful region with a multitude of lakes, valleys and snow capped mountain peaks. The Rhine river has its source in the Grisons, connecting its mountains to Lake Constance over 100km away. Travelling alongside the Rhine and Lake Constance, this diverse cycle adventure from Switzerland, passes through Liechtenstein and Austria before returning to Constance in Germany. The relaxed itinerary offers the flexibility to explore the gorges of the Grissons on foot, cycle to winegrowers villages to sample the local specialties, visit the Museum of Art in Liechtenstein, and climb up to a castle for a picture postcard view. In the evenings your hosts serve you regional cuisine and ensure you have a comfortable stay after the days cycle.

Highlights

  • Following the Rhine from its source in Switzerland through Liechtenstein, to the Austrian German border area at Lake Constance
  • Experiencing the incredible Viamala Gorge and the ruin of Aulta
  • A visit to the winegrowing villages of Zizers or Maienfeld
  • Soaking up the hospitality of family run hotels

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive Constance (Konstanz)

After arriving in Constance and check-in, take the chance to visit Mainau island or enjoy a walk through the old town of Constance. The European church convention chaired by the German Kaiser Sigismund which fundamentally changed the Latin church, met here from 1414-1418 in the cathedral and the council building. The most famous victim, the Czech reformer Jan Hus, was executed there in 1415. The aquarium in the Sea Life Center and the Archaeological Museum are also recommended. Overnight stay in Constance.

Day 2 Train to Chur, the gateway to the Grisons, Switzerland

You can either enjoy the morning on Lake Constance and then take the train to the starting point of your cycling trip or you can leave straight away after breakfast and can spend the afternoon getting to know the region where the different sections of the Rhine converge. Whatever you decide to do we will transport your bikes and luggage, which will be waiting for you in Chur in the afternoon. You will be enchanted by the romantic atmosphere of the ancient city and the Bischofsburg Castle. Overnight stay in Chur.

Day 3 Train to Disentis and cycle the Rhaeto-Romanic Alpen Way (60km)

To start off the day you take a train to Disentis from where you begin your cycle along the Vorder Rhine through the Rhaeto-Romanic Alpen Valley. You can cycle above the famous Rhine ravine Ruin Aulta or you can enjoy the view of the ravine by taking a short train trip (price not included). Overnight stay in Chur.

Day 4 Cycle from Chur to the Liechtenstein town of Triesenberg (45km)

The cycle route first takes you along the Rhine before entering the hilly vineyards of the Bünder Herrschaft countryside and its charming villages. Pinot Noir and the extremely rare Completer wine can be purchased here, before Liechtenstein and its Gutenberg castle bid you welcome. You are picked up in Triesen and taken to your hotel, which is located at a lofty height of 900m. You can enjoy wonderful views over the Rhine Valley.

Day 5 Cycle via the Austrian town of Hohenems to Lake Constance and Rorschach (67km)

Discover Vaduz by the city train. It's worth visiting the highly respected art museum and the very well-sorted wine cellars of the Prince of Liechtenstein. The Rhine soon take you out of Liechtenstein and via the Austrian town of Hohenems, a town with a rich Jewish history. The Jewish quarter and the museum tell of the blooming development which was brutally ended. Cycling alongside the “New” Rhine you will reach the delta, an important nature conservation area, and then continue on along the shores of Lake Constance to the Swiss town of Rorschach where you have an overnight stay.

Day 6 Cycle through the Swiss canton of Thurgau to Constance in Germany (40km)

The cycle route takes you through the Swiss canton (state) of Thurgau today mainly alongside the lakeshore. This canton is also known as “Cider India” due to its many orchards and its relative remoteness. Enjoy a coffee with a view of the lake in one of the many cafés. Overnight stay in Constance.

Day 7 Trip concludes

After breakfast your cycling holiday will come to an end. We would be more than happy to extend your stay in the Lake Constance region.

Additional Information

Inclusions

  • 6 breakfasts, 6 dinners (does not include drinks) - Continental breakfasts are served and will often consist of breads, spreads, yoghurt, cheese, cold meats, muesli, tea, coffee & juices (note this will change with the different hotels and all items may not be available). Dinner will consist of three courses which may include some local specialties
  • 6 nights accommodation in 3 to 4 star hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities. Note: high season is from 3 May to 31 August and a supplement applies
  • 7 or 21 speed rental bike or tandem (electronic bikes available for an additional supplement)
  • Luggage transfer (max 20kg per piece)
  • Train from Constance SBB to Chur excluding bike, train from Chur to Disentis including bike
  • Bike transfer from Constance to Chur
  • Entrance to Rosgartenmuseum including a coffee
  • Information pack including route notes and maps
  • Emergency hotline
Alpine Rhine Cycle

Group Size Min

Group Size Max

Accommodation Summary

Equipment Required

Bike helmet (bring your own), wet weather gear, sunscreen, jogging shoes and sun hat. A comprehensive packing list is provided in the pre departure information provided on booking.

What You Carry

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Book this trip with World Expeditions on their site

from
USD$1,390