24 Trips to Explore in 2024See the List
Duration
8 days
Activities
  • self guided cycle
Accommodation
  • 7 nights in 3 and 4 star hotels
Meals
  • 7 Breakfasts

Price

$1520USD

 
 

Overview

Trip Code: ABB

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 the Rhine, passing Hansel and Gretel style houses overlooked by imposing medieval castles. There is plenty of opportunity to explore the cobblestone streets of quaint villages and marvel at the impressive Romanesque and Baroque churches. Gastronomic delights are plentiful in this corner of France and you can sample some of the Alsace's finest produce as you travel through undulating farmland, orchards and vineyards. The unusual and stunning 'balloons' or round topped hills provide beautiful vistas of the Alsatian region. This itinerary soaks up the relaxed and jovial atmosphere of what can only be described as a wine-lovers' wonderland.

Trip Grading

moderate

More info about grading system

Traveller Rating

 

Arrive in the University and port town of Strasbourg and your 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 out of pink sandstone from the Vosges. There are many interesting narrow streets where you can find some interesting churches, restaurants and shops and the city has a number of covered bridges which cross the Ill River.

Meals:  Nil

The Canal de la Bruche was once a transport route for wine from the wine-growing areas to the capital. Today the cycle path runs along this canal from Strasbourg to Molsheim, along the wine route. It continues past the 12th century Romanesque church at Rosheim to Obernai. Wine sampling is the theme of the day interspersed with some great cycling in the shadow of the Vosges. Overnight Obernai region.

Meals:  B

The cycle path runs through the famous vineyards and their wine-growing villages, which are among the most beautiful in Alsace: Barr, Andlau, Itterswiller, Dambach-la-Ville and Bergheim or Ribeauville. The route takes you past these villages with opportunities to sample wines, as you head towards the Middle Ages town of Riquewihr (or surrounds). Route Notes - 2 hard climbs, route mainly on dedicated cycle paths through vineyards.

Meals:  B

Continue your journey on the Wine Route, at the foot of the Vosges Mountains. Today you will discover charming villages famous for the region's great wines. Among them, Eguisheim and Kaysersberg were each recently voted "Favourite Village of the French". You will stop in Colmar, capital of Alsace wines. Do not miss a walk in its well-preserved historic centre and visit the Unterlinden Museum, which houses the Issenheim Altarpiece, a masterpiece of Western art. Colmar is the birthplace of F.A. Bartholdi famous for the Statue of Liberty of New York (1866). Route Notes - a hilly route with a few hard but short climbs (2 of 1km/0.6mi each, 1 of 500m from Wintzenheim to Wettolsheim). 1.5km/1mi of the route is on a good dirt road.

Meals:  B

Today you can enjoy a rest day, exploring the pretty town of Colmar, or if you're feeling energetic you can explore the surrounding area by bike. From Colmar you head south along the Alsace Wine Route, passing its typical villages. From Guebwiller, cycle to Bollwiller and take the train or continue to Ungersheim, until the Ecomusee d’Alsace. From there, the cycle path guides you directly to Mulhouse. Return to Colmar by train. (Train ticket costs are not included). Route Notes - little hilly until Guebwiller, then flat terrain to either Bollwiller or Mulhouse. Optional longer cycle route (same night stop) - additional loop tour Colmar-Munster return +40km/25m

Meals:  B

Today you head east to Neuf-Brisach, then continue towards the south to reach the small village of Ottmarsheim with its 12th century church. Next you enter the Hardt’s forest then continue cycling along the Rhone-Rhine canal to reach Mulhouse. After enjoying the historic town centre of Mulhouse, you have a choice of numerous museums to visit this afternoon. Route Notes - flat route mainly on dedicated cycle paths, approx 7km on secondary roads) Optional longer cycle route (same night stop) - additional loop +30km/18.75mi, altitude difference +141m

Meals:  B

Continue to follow the Rhone-Rhine Canal by the EuroVelo route 6 to Illfurth then cross the peaceful Sundgau region in the south of Alsace, characterised by its beautiful half-timbered houses. The city of Basel is located where the borders of Germany, France and Switzerland meet. Although the main city is in Switzerland, some of the suburbs are in France and Germany. With a large number of theatres and museums (including the world renowned Fine Arts Museum), the city is a centre of culture. Route Notes - flat or gently undulating (30km/18.5mi), largely on cycle paths but also on low traffic roads.

Meals:  B

Trip concludes in Basel after breakfast. There are regular direct trains (1hr 20mins travel time) if you need to return to Strasbourg (fare not included).

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

  • 7 breakfasts – continental breakfasts are served and usually consist of breads, jams, cheese, occasionally eggs and meats, coffee, tea and juices.
  • 7 nights in 3 and 4 star hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
  • Luggage transfer, 1 piece max 20kg per person, supplement applies for excess
  • Information pack including map and route notes per room booked, navigational app and GPS tracks available
  • 21 speed rental bike, equipped with panniers, pump, anti-theft device & repair kit (electric bike available on request - supplement applies)
  • Bike insurance
  • Emergency hotline

  • Travel to Strasbourg and from Basel
  • Meals not listed as included, drinks
  • Helmet - rental is not available, please bring your own helmet
  • Travel insurance
  • Guide – this is a self guided cycling holiday
  • A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
  • Entrance fees
  • Transfers not listed as included
  • Transfers by taxi or public transport if you need to skip a stage
  • Train tickets for cycling options on day 5
  • Hotel taxes may apply - these are payable locally and range from €1-3 per person per night
  • Bike repairs
  • We recommend bringing a handlebar phone holder – to follow the route more easily using the app

Bike information


Grading

moderate  

The cycle is moderate (3) grade with daily cycles of between 39 and 65km (24.5 and 40mi), or you can choose the more challenging 'sports' option should you want longer rides (between 75 and 111km/46.5 and 69mi) between the same towns. The terrain mainly flat or gently undulating, with days 3, 4 and 7 involving some steeper ascents and descents. You will ride mainly on cycle paths, on minor agricultural tarred roads or on small 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 good level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure. It is considered suitable for fit beginners and children aged 12 and over who are used to pedalling on hills and over time. 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

Thursday, Friday and Saturday 30 Mar to 5 Oct

Notes

M
Mid Season
H
High Season
Note:
Mid season 13 Apr - 31 May and 28 Sep - 5 Oct. High season 01 Jun - 27 Sep, supplement applies
Note:
Basel Art Fair is 13-16 June 2024, trip is on request at this busy time

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

$1520USD

Options & Supplements*
  • Electric Bike SupplementUSD$210
  • Single SupplementUSD$520
*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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