2025 Early Bird SaleFinal WeekSave Now
Duration
8 days
Activities
  • self guided cycle
Accommodation
  • 3 star family run hotels
Meals
  • 7 Breakfasts

Price

ON SALE

$1850 USD

Adult$1758USD

 
 

Overview

Trip Code: 3LC

Trip highlights


  • Cycling through four countries on the banks of Lake Constance
  • Experiencing the region's quintessential landscapes of rolling green meadows and snow capped mountains
  • Enjoying the scenic lakes including a boat trip on Lake Walen (Walensee)
  • Soaking up the hospitality of family run hotels

Discover three lakes: Lake Constance, Zurichsee and Walensee and enjoy the variety and similarities as you ride through four countries - Germany, Switzerland, Liechtenstein and Austria - from the banks of Lake Constance. From lively Constance to the high mountains of the Churfirsten, you will find there is a lot to see on this route, which is also easy to cycle. View the unfolding countryside at handlebar level from charming lakeside Constance to the frescoed, medieval towns of Stein Am Rhein and the picturesque Rheinfall waterfall near Schaffhausen. Visit cosmopolitan Zurich, cross Lake Walsensee by boat, take the train up to Appenzell to ride through typical Swiss mountain pasture scenery and cycle the length of Liechtenstein. At night stay in comfortable family run hotels to truly soak up the famous hospitality of the region

Trip Grading

moderate

More info about grading system

Traveller Rating

 

Make your own way to Constance and the joining hotel. On arrival we recommend taking the opportunity to visit the island of Mainau and wander through Constance’s old town or visit the aquariums in the Sea Life Centre and the Archaeological Museum.

Meals:  Nil

Following the side of Lake Constance, you pedal to Stein am Rhein with its frescoed, medieval houses. Switching several times between Germany and Switzerland you reach the canton's capital, Schaffhausen. The town, whose citizens competed with each other in building gables on their houses, is overlooked by Munot fort.

Meals:  B

After breakfast, it's a short cycle to the Rhine Falls, one of Europe's biggest waterfalls. You can get a boat (ticket included) right up close to the mighty roar of the water. Next, you follow the Glatt Valley, which takes you to Zurich, Switzerland's fascinating, cosmopolitan city. It unites tradition with modernity and its unspoiled historic quarter is very inviting, thanks to the many cafes and bars here. Note: From Zurich-Kloten Airport, you can shorten the cycle day by taking the S-Bahn (not included) from Rümlang station

Meals:  B

Today you cycle along the northern bank of Lake Zurich on the so-called 'golden coast' to Rapperswil. Take a break here and go up to the old castle, from where you'll have lovely views of Lake Zurich and the countryside. From Rapperswil, you cross the lake via the dam and then cycle along the opposite bank a little further to the small town of Lachen.

Meals:  B

The Linth Canal, an artificial waterway between Lake Zurich and Walensee lake, was built at the beginning of the 19th century to prevent flooding from the Linth and its tributaries. In Weesen you board a boat (ticket included) which takes you to Walenstadt. The Churfirsten peaks tower high above the impressive Walensee, which is perfect for swimming. After only a few kilometres you reach the valley of the Alpine Rhine, which you continue to follow to the Principality of Liechtenstein, where you will spend the night today.

Meals:  B

After cycling along the Rhine the next stage will be by cog railway up to Gais, which lies in Appenzell. On your way to St. Gallen you’ll be accompanied by the sound of bells from cows grazing in beautiful alpine pastures. The library of the collegiate church in St Gallen is one of the most important historical libraries in the world. Here, among the 160.000 books in the library, the oldest German book can be found.

Meals:  B

Enjoy the downhill stretch to Lake Constance as you make your way towards Arbon. Following the banks of the lake almost all the way, the trail leads you through apple orchards and the small towns of Arbon and Romanshorn back to Constance. This stretch is flat and easy to cycle, unless a strong westerly wind is blowing. You will frequently pass swimming spots where you can refresh yourself in the lovely cool waters of the lake.

Meals:  B

Your cycle trip concludes after breakfast. If you'd like to extend your stay in Constance, please ask for our rates.

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 will often consist of breads, spreads, yoghurt, cheese, cold meats, muesli, tea, coffee & juices (note this could vary with the different hotels and all items may not be available)
  • 7 nights accommodation in 3 star family run hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
  • 27 speed rental bike with pannier and handlebar bag (premium and e-bikes available for an additional supplement)
  • Luggage Transfer, 1 piece maximum 20kg, supplement applies for excess
  • Information pack including route notes and maps per room booked
  • Boat trip to the Rhine Falls Rock
  • Boat trip from Weesen to Walenstadt including bike
  • Train ride Altstätten to Gais including bike
  • Entrance to Rosgarten museum in Constance with coffee included
  • Emergency hotline

  • Travel to and from Constance
  • Meals not listed as included, drinks
  • Travel insurance - mandatory
  • Helmets, not available to rent or purchase
  • Premium or e-bike rental, supplement applies
  • 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
  • Additional trains not listed as included
  • Excess Luggage
  • Hotel taxes if applicable – payable directly to the hotel
  • Items of a personal nature

Bike information


Grading

moderate  

This moderate (3) grade trip involves 7 days cycling, usually along cycle paths and separate cycle routes. Short sections will be through main centres where you will encounter car traffic. The average distance is 25-70km/15.5 to 44mi per day, which should take between 3-6 hours and the route is characterised by rolling hills at times. You should prepare for the cycle in the months leading up to your trip with cycling, jogging and walking the best preparation. You need only carry your camera and water bottle etc as your luggage is transported for you between hotels. *For safety reasons, we highly recommend that cycle helmets are worn.


Departure dates

Daily from 1 Jun to 28 Sep, Sundays from 27 Apr - 25 May

Notes

Note:
2025: Mid season 18 - 24 May, 9 Jun - 4 Jul & 17 Aug - 6 Sep. High season 25 May - 8 Jun & 5 Jul - 16 Aug, supplement applies 2024: Mid season 18 Aug - 5 Oct, supplement applies

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

$1758USD

Options & Supplements*
  • Single SupplementUSD$400
*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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