Bicycling the Black Forest to Lake Constance

Highlights: Welcome dinner, test ride

Welcome to Colmar! Take some time to explore the canals, museums, and great shopping this stunning city has to offer. Colmar has been a famous market and wine center since the 13th century. We’ll meet this afternoon for a bike fitting and enjoy a delicious Alsatian dinner together this evening.

Highlights: Freiburg

Freiburg is arguably one of Germany’s most beautiful cities with its impressive cathedral and colorful houses lining its streets. You will also find the old “Bächle,” an unusual system of gutters that run throughout its center. These Bächle were once used to provide water to fight fires and feed livestock. They have a constant flow of water diverted from the Dreisam River. During the summer, the running water provides a natural form of air conditioning and offers a pleasant sound of running water. It is said that if one accidentally falls or steps into a Bächle they will marry a Freiburger, or ‘Bobbele.’

Highlights: Guided walking tour of Freiburg

Enjoy Freiburg, shopping museums, strolling around or for those who really want to pedal and climb we have the perfect ride for you to tackle on your own, alternatively you can take the funicular up to the Shauinsland and enjoy the views and go for a hike. Or join us in a walking tour of town!

Highlights: Titisee, Schluchsee, Rothaus Brauerei with guided visit

Today’s ride takes you through stunning natural areas. Climb through the dense pine trees of the Black Forest up to the village of Titisee and enjoy the crystal clear waters of the Titisee and Schluchsee lakes. Or, if you’re in the mood to relax, jump on the Höllentalbahn – a train that passes through the impressive “Hell’s Valley.” No matter how you choose to get there, we will finish our day enjoying a guided visit of Germany’s highest brewery located right next our hotel in Rothaus. From our hotel you also have the option to take a 2 km hike to an isolated lake if you’re in the mood for a swim.

Highlights: Schlüchten gorge, Rheinfall, Schaffhause city of the orlies

This morning you’ll enjoy quiet roads descending through the stunning Schluenchten Gorge to the Rhein. This is actually referred to as the “Uping Rhein” since it’s still a small river and not the wide river most think of then they think of the Rhein. We will cycle right next to the breathtaking Rhein waterfall, supposedly the largest waterfall in Europe. If you’d like to stop by the Laufen Castle along the way you can overlook the falls for another stunning perspective. We will end our day in Schaffhausen, Switzerland. As you stroll through the “City of Bay Windows” enjoy this charming medieval town ornately decorated with oriel windows and extravagantly painted facades.

Highlights: Crossing Germany and Switzerland borders, Diessingen wooden bridge

Today you’ll weave across the German and Swiss border about seven times as you take in the fairy-tale scenery and medieval towns. When you arrive at the point where the Rhine River becomes Lake Constance you’ll feel like you’re traveling back in time as you cross the wooden bridge into Stein am Rhein. Famous for its Old Town and the well-preserved monastery of St. Georgen, this town’s scenic streets and colorful history are sure to delight.

Highlights: Insel Mainau – island of flowers, Constance

Bisected by the Rhine River, sidling up to the Swiss border and outlined by the Alps, Constance sits in one of the most idyllic settings you could dream of. Spared from WWII bombing, this town has the mark of Roman emperors, medieval traders and 15th century bishops – a delightful backdrop to the lively buzz brought on by today’s university culture. Today you can enjoy a loop ride along quaint roads and rolling hills between Überlingen and Gnaden. If you prefer a day off the bike, enjoy the town’s lakefront views as you stroll its tree-lined promenade or take a boat trip to the island of Meinau, or Flower Island, named for its spectacular flower gardens. We will enjoy our final dinner together tonight in the Dominikaner Beer Garden.

Highlights: Enjoy the city

Our tour ends after breakfast today. Enjoy the rest of your travels around Europe or have a safe trip home!