Mediterranean Bike & Boat SaleView Trips
Duration
5 days
Activities
  • self guided cycle
Accommodation
  • 4 nights in 3 star hotels
  • Optional upgrade available
Meals
  • 4 Breakfasts

Price

$1090USD

 
 

Overview

Trip Code: AB5

Trip highlights


  • Cycling through the heart of the Alsatian vineyards
  • Exploring the authentic villages which are full of historical intrigue
  • Experiencing the timelessness of the Vosges landscape
  • Enjoying the culinary specialties and sampling some of the many excellent wines in local ‘caves’

One of the most picturesque regions of France, Alsace is also one of the most cycle-friendly. Designated bike paths and quiet country backroads provide a perfect passage along France's oldest wine route, passing Hansel and Gretel style houses overlooked by imposing medieval castles. Winding through the region's most beautiful villages and charming landscapes, this short ride along the must-see highlights of the Alsace Wine Route is a great option for those short on time. The route takes you to some of the key cities including delightful Strasbourg, home to the EU Parliament, as well as Obernai and Colmar, where you will witness the most delightful examples of traditional half-timbered Alsatian architecture. There is plenty of opportunity to get out of the saddle to explore their cobblestone streets and marvel at the impressive Romanesque and Baroque churches. As you ride through undulating farmland, orchards and vineyards the gastronomic delights are plentiful with the German influence on the regional cuisine providing a culinary experience found nowhere else in the country. The unusual and stunning 'balloons' or round topped hills will provide some challenge on the bike but you will be rewarded with beautiful vistas. This itinerary soaks up the relaxed and jovial atmosphere along the Alsace Wine Route, which can only be described as a wine-lovers' wonderland.

Trip Grading

introductory to moderate

More info about grading system

Traveller Rating

 

Arrive in the university town of Strasbourg and settle into the hotel. Strasbourg is the capital of Alsace and home to some great museums which are worth visiting. The old city is dominated by the Cathedral made of pink sandstone from the Vosges. Stroll through the narrow paved cobbled streets and see the beautiful half-timbered houses with painted plasterwork, stone gateways and intimate courtyards. You can also find some interesting churches, restaurants and shops and the city has a number of covered bridges which cross the Ill River. We can assist with booking pre-tour accommodation on request.

Meals:  Nil

Your bikes will be available this morning from the bike shop, a short walk from the hotel. The Canal de la Bruche once served to transport wine from the vineyards to Strasbourg and today a cycle path runs along it. Ride from the inner city to Molsheim with some great cycling in the shadow of the Vosges. The route to the town of Obernai leads you through charming villages, past beautiful castles and winding vineyards to the beginning of the 'Route des Vins'. In Obernai you'll find medieval streets lined with the classic half-timbered houses of the region. Enjoy delicious Alsatian cuisine in one of the many restaurants in charming Obernai. 165m/541ft ascent, 119m/390ft descent

Meals:  B

The cycle path takes you through famous vineyards and their wine-growing villages, which are among the most beautiful in Alsace: Mittelbergheim, Andlau, Itterswiller, Dambach-la-Ville and Ribeauville, with opportunities to sample wines. Continue to the medieval town of Riquewihr, listed as one of 'Les Plus Beaux Villages de France' (most beautiful villages of France), in the heart of the Alsace wine region. The combination of beautiful architecture and world famous wines has given Riquewihr the nickname 'The Pearl of Alsace'. Overnight in Riquewihr. 419m/1375ft ascent, 319m/1047 descent

Meals:  B

Today there are more vines and beautiful wine-growing villages. You will visit beautiful Turckheim, a walled and fortified town. Take the time to walk through the streets lined with half-timbered houses. Continue cycling through scenic wine villages including Kaysersberg and end your ride in Colmar. You can make this cycling day more challenging by adding an extra loop through the area which takes you past five local castles. Colmar is situated in the heart of the Alsace plain and near to the foothills of the Vosges. Its old town is worth exploring, with its narrow cobbled streets flanked by sixteenth and seventeenth century half-timbered houses. Colmar is the birthplace of F.A. Bartholdi, the sculptor best known for designing New York's Statue of Liberty. Overnight in Colmar. 196m/643ft ascent, 286m/938ft descent

Meals:  B

The trip concludes after breakfast. We can assist with booking extra nights on request.

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

  • 4 breakfasts – continental breakfasts are served and usually consist of breads, jams, cheese, occasionally eggs and meats, coffee, tea and juices.
  • 4 nights in 3 star hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities (upgrade to 3-4 star hotels - supplement applies)
  • Digital information pack including smartphone app with maps, roadbook and GPS Tracks
  • Luggage Transfer, 1 piece maximum 20kg, supplement applies for excess
  • Hybrid rental bike, equipped with panniers, pump, helmet, anti-theft device & repair kit (e-bike available on request - supplement applies)
  • Tourist tax
  • Emergency hotline

  • Travel to Strasbourg and from Colmar
  • Meals not listed as included, drinks
  • Travel insurance - mandatory
  • Guide – this is a self guided cycling holiday
  • A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
  • Entrance fees not listed as included
  • Transfers not listed as included
  • Transfers by taxi or public transport if you need to skip a stage
  • Excess luggage
  • Handlebar phone holder – we recommend bringing your own to follow the route more easily using the app
  • Printed documents are available - additional cost applies. Must be requested and will be provided locally at the joining hotel. Please ask our consultant for details.
  • Items of a personal nature

Bike information


Grading

introductory to moderate  

Grade 2 - daily cycles of between 36-49km / 22-30.5mi on mainly flat terrain. Days 3 and 4 will involve some hill ascents and descents. You will ride mainly on cycle paths, on minor agricultural tarred roads or on little secondary roads without much traffic. The accent is on keeping a relaxed pace to take in all of the attractions, with time to stop and take photos. You will need a reasonable level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure. It is considered suitable for fit beginners and children (children’s bikes and trailers available on request). If you are not used to cycling then we recommend that you include as much cycling on roads in your pre trip training. This is to get used to cars passing you at times and will be invaluable practise for when you are entering and leaving towns and cities when on the trip.


Departure dates

Daily from 1 Apr to 31 Oct

Want to organise a private group?

Fundraising events, sporting groups, family treats; learn how you can organise a Private Group from just 6 travellers.

Priceper person from

$1090USD

Options & Supplements*
  • Discount for triple share rooms (pp)USD$-89
  • E-Bike supplementUSD$80
  • Upgrade Supplement 3-4 star hotelsUSD$90
  • Single Supplement - 3-4 star hotelsUSD$270
  • Single Supplement - 3 star hotelsUSD$300
  • Solo Traveller Supplement - 3-4 star hotelsUSD$520
  • Solo Traveller Supplement - 3 star hotelsUSD$540
*Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews


Why travel with us

Making Europe Affordable

We offer different levels of accommodation and comfort so that even the most budget conscious can treat themselves to active holidays on Europe's most celebrated tracks and trails. Our trips are great value for money because you only pay for what you want.  

Self-Guided Specialists

Our wide range of self-guided itineraries embody the UTracks philosophy of exploring Europe your way. We handle the logistics so all that's left for you to do is enjoy exploring Europe at your own pace. Most depart daily with a minimum of two people, meaning maximum flexibility.

Our Wide Range

With close to 400 trips in almost 50 countries, including the largest range of bike & boat holidays in Europe, we're confident that we can organise an Alps walk, Camino de Santiago or Via Francigena experience, Food Lovers' trip or a tour in a lesser-known pocket of Europe that you will love. 

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