BAVARIAN GEMUTLICHKEIT

If you share with us the backroads and villages of southern Germany and Austria at a pace no faster than the pumping of a pedal, we will become part of a world that is impossible to witness from behind a car's window glass. Towering castles, forests, vineyards and riversides will become familiar and memorable. Ancient city walls barely visible under centuries of moss, watchtowers, half-timbered medieval houses, and plush golden palaces will all contribute to our sojourn through time and history.

Each dinner in a small remote village inn or traditional restaurant will vary in accordance with the region's customs. Homemade sausages and sauerkraut, Wiener Schnitzel (veal), Rolladen, Sauerbraten, Spaetzle (homemade noodles), venison, trout, and countless desserts will all be part of the dining fare. Beer is usually locally brewed and almost every district grows its own wine. Don't worry about gaining weight, as you'll have burned lots of calories and deserve to enjoy a hearty dinner.

Plan to arrive at Frankfurt Airport no later than Saturday morning.

Saturday, Heidelberg. A great town to explore. The pink sandstone castle looks down from its vantage point in the green woods of the hillside. Visit the many museums, 14th Century University, unique shops and outdoor markets. Get-acquainted party tonight followed by a special welcome dinner.

Sunday, Eberbach. The Neckar River valley with its gingerbread villages leads us to our next destination. Along the way we will visit the small walled village of Dilsberg. Best pastries at the Cafe Victoria in Eberbach.

Monday, Bad Wimpfen. Another day winding through the castle-dotted countryside of the Neckar Valley. Bad Wimpfen will quickly capture your imagination as you wander the narrow lanes of this ancient town with its beautiful 13th century half-timbered houses and fortress.

Tuesday, Ohringen. Today we follow the snake-like Jagst River past terraced vineyards to Jagsthausen with its castle, museum and Fairytale Park. Our hotel in Ohringen is located next to the town gate and not far from the 15th century abbey.

Wednesday & Thursday, Rothenburg. Cycle through medieval villages lost in time with ancient town gates and high gabled houses. The magic of Rothenburg can be felt from a distance as you catch your first glimpse of the town wall, towers and church steeples. Narrow cobblestone streets lead the way to our hotel. Our local guide will take us on a walking tour of this magical town.

Friday, Weissenburg. The banks of the Woernitz River take us through farmland spotted with wooded areas and castles. Much of Weissenburg's architecture dates back to the 16th century.

Saturday, Neuburg. Today we follow the twisting course of the Altmuehl River through Germany's largest nature park. Castles appear to be part of the rock face, set amidst bizarre geological formations.

Sunday, Freising. A leisurely day of cycling through hop fields and small agricultural villages. Lunch stop at Scheyern Monastery, built in 1120. Today the monastery is well known for the excellent beer brewed on the premises and served in the beer garden.

Monday & Tuesday, Munich. A short and easy ride brings us to Munich in time for lunch. A bike path along the Isar River leads us into the Englischer Garten Park, just three blocks from our hotel. In the afternoon it will quickly become apparent why this city is so well known for its culture and gaiety. The fun loving locals look upon the pursuit of pleasure as a full-time calling. Tuesday morning we take a walking tour of the city's historic area. Free time to explore and rest in one of the tree-shaded beer gardens, visit the Alte Pinakothek, the Deutsches Museum of science and industry and Nymphenburg Castle.

Wednesday, Wasserburg. Kilometer after kilometer of silent forest and villages with distinctive onion-topped Baroque churches and homes with elaborately painted facades. Wasserburg owes its existence to the salt trade on the Inn River during the Middle Ages.

Thursday & Friday, Salzburg. Our final day of cycling is past numerous lakes, including the Chiemsee, Bavaria's largest. The ride on to Salzburg is quite flat, with Alps towering in the near distance. Friday morning our local guide takes us on a walking tour to discover the "City of Princes." You will soon realize what a rich heritage of architectural splendor has been handed down by the prince bishops. Farewell dinner in a 300 year-old castle.

Saturday. After breakfast we'll take you to Salzburg's airport or train station.

Tour date: You pick the date -- 15 days/14 nights.
Tour Leaders: Gerhard Meng & assistant
Tour price: $4,295 per person based on a group of 14 to 16 people.
In order to offer the lowest possible price, the trips are priced according to the number of participants on the tour. The cost will be lower with more people in the group, and the cost will increase if there are fewer people. Price can also be reduced if you wish fewer meals or other services included. The standard of hotels you choose will also change the price.
Price was last up-dated on November 11, 2009. Subject to change.

Includes all breakfasts and eleven dinners.
What else is included in the tour price? 

On most days we’ll have three cycling options with average distances of 29, 36 and 70miles. Shortcuts will be available and every day we’ll also have the option of longer and more challenging bike rides.

Good quality bike rentals can be arranged at approximately $27 per day. All frames are “hybrid” style with upright handlebars and have a choice of men’s or women’s frame. Designed in France, they are equipped with Shimano components. All have 27 gears and come equipped with a water bottle, bell, lock, pump, handlebar pack, rear rack and patch

Top