Bicycling Secret Bavaria Plus! the Austrian Alps

We gather today in Würzburg, a historic medieval center (dating back as early as the 7th century) that sits on the banks of the Main River. Come a day early to explore the exquisite Baroque palace, churches and gardens dating to the 18th century. After fitting bikes this afternoon we’ll gather for introductions and dinner together.

Our ride today takes us through the hills of central Germany to the medieval town of Mergentheim. In the early 20th century the name was changed to Bad Mergentheim in honor of the discovery, a century before, of natural mineral springs in the area. Today the village is dominated by the castle complex on the edge of the historic town. Take time this afternoon to explore this wonderfully preserved medieval town. Our hotel tonight has one of the best restaurants in the city so be sure to save your appetite for dinner.

Distance: 58km (36mi) | Gain: 499m (1637ft) | Terrain | Day level: 2.5

Today we continue through the rolling hills of central Germany to the medieval village of Rothenburg. Perched high above the meanders of the Tauber River, Rothenburg looks perfectly preserved but the town center surrounded by its 14th and 15th century walls was rebuilt after WWII. This afternoon we will visit a special cellar with a beautiful collection of rare varietals. After which we’ll continue our wine education and meet one of the last vintners in Rothenburg, who just so happens to own our hotel.

Distance: 50km (31mi) | Gain: 557m (1827ft) | Terrain | Day level: 1.5

Take your time to enjoy this fabulous medieval city and the views it offers of the Tauber valley. For those who want some cycling we have a relaxing ride towards Bad Windsheim, another opportunity to explore Bavaria’s picturesque countryside. We’ll suggest a fascinating open-air museum which will transport you to the last 700 years of Franconian life. After the ride, there is still plenty of time to enjoy the market center and the streets lined with Gothic and half-timber houses, and take a tour on the walls of the city, or explore them on your own.

Distance: 68km (43mi) | Gain: 733m (2404ft) | Terrain | Day level: 2.5

We ride over undulating farmlands from one fairy tale village to another today. In contrast to Rothenburg on the Tauber, Dinkelsbühl is indeed nearly perfectly preserved from the middle ages. As early as the 11th century, the town was a major center at the intersection of two medieval trade routes. Tonight is another opportunity to enjoy the rewards of a good handcrafted German kitchen at our top rated hotel restaurant.

Distance: 45km (28mi) | Gain: 433m (1420ft) | Terrain | Day level: 2.0

The landscape changes today as we pedal across the 12-17 mile wide, nearly circular Ries Basin. Unlike most of the areas we bike, which are a mixture of forests and farmlands, the geology of this area doesn’t allow rich forest lands. We are back in the “typical” landscape of Bavaria as we approach historic Donauwörth on the banks of the Danube, western Europe’s longest river.

Distance: 73km (46mi) | Gain: 552m (1811ft) | Terrain | Day level: 2.0

Our ride today takes us up the Lech River valley to Augsburg, which was founded by the Roman emperor Augustus in 15 BC. As you might expect, there is plenty to see here this afternoon. We will visit the award-winning Riegele Brauerei brewery and taste some of their modern beers before a traditional Bavarian dinner.

Distance: 67km (42mi) | Gain: 443m (1453ft) | Terrain | Day level: 2.0

As we bicycle from Augsburg to Landsberg we are back in the forests and farmlands, which are densely settled with small villages and hamlets all along the way. Under the Holy Roman Empire in the medieval period, Landsberg was a fortified border town separating the duchy of Swabia from that of Bavaria. Historic walls, towers and gates define the architecture of the community, including one of the best town gates in Germany, the “Bavarian Gate.”

Distance: 54km (34mi) | Gain: 369m (1210ft) | Terrain | Day level: 1.5

Today we continue to parallel the Lech River and the ancient Claudia Augusta Way, which eventually became the medieval trade route that gave its name to the “Romantic Way.” Our destination is Füssen. The town sits near King Ludwig’s most famous castle, Neuschwanstein, at the foot of the Austrian Alps.

Distance: 76km (47mi) | Gain: 705m (2312ft) | Terrain | Day level: 2.0

The “faux” medieval Neuschwanstein Castle was built by mad King Ludwig in the late 19th century and is one of the most famous attractions in southern Germany. A predecessor and inspiration for the Disney-style castles that have captured the imagination of children for a century and a half. We’ll pedal or walk to the castle for a 35 minute guided visit. After our visit we’ll cross the border into Austria to Heiterwang, or nearby Reutte.

Distance: 39km (24mi) | Gain: 576m (1889ft) | Terrain | Day level: 2.5

If you are headed home, the Munich airport is 3 1/2 hours away by train. Gute Reise!