Bicycle Berlin to Prague

June 19 to June 30, 2010

Germany & the Czech Republic

A cycling adventure that connects two of Europe’s most exciting and historical capitals. The Elbe River flows from the Czech Republic into Germany, through the large harbor city of Hamburg and empties into the North Sea. Our cycling route along the river will heighten your sense of the thousands of years of history that have unfolded on the banks of this major waterway. Savor the scenic beauty, customs and architectural jewels of this area that was once behind the iron curtain.

Each dinner in a village inn or traditional restaurant will vary in accordance with the region's customs. Homemade sausages, Schnitzel, rolladen, sauerbraten, spaetzle, venison, trout and countless desserts will all be part of the dining fare. Don't worry about gaining weight, as you'll have burned lots of calories and will deserve a hearty dinner.

Plan to arrive in Berlin no later than Saturday morning. If you have time, we suggest arriving a day early to explore this city that has been named the new capital of Germany.

Saturday, Berlin We will meet you at the airport and transfer you to our hotel. This morning we have a walking tour with our local guide. You’ll see many of the historic highlights of Berlin and gain a better understanding of why the city is so exciting today. The afternoon is at leisure to visit museums and enjoy a sidewalk café. Festive get-acquainted party and dinner tonight.

Sunday, Potsdam Morning walking tour of the Park Sans-Souci and the spectacular summer palace of Frederick the Great. Afternoon bike ride from Potsdam, along the lakeshore to Cecilienhof where Churchill, Truman and Stalin met in 1945 and decided Germany’s future.

Monday, Wittenberg A pleasant day of villages and pastures lead us to Wittenberg. It is here that Martin Luther launched the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century. On our walking tour we will learn more about the history and architecture of this UNESCO world heritage site.

Tuesday, Torgau We follow quiet country roads and bike routes through lovely countryside with small agricultural villages. Watch for the large cooperative farms from the Communist era. Torgau sits on the banks of the Elbe River. The historic town center has a monument for the WWII meeting of the US Army and the Soviet Union forces. You may wish to visit the Russian military cemetery and the brewery museum.

Wednesday, Meissen Cycle through agricultural fields, fruit orchards and vineyards with scenic views of the Elbe River. Meissen has a history dating back more than a thousand years and has been producing its famous china since the early 18th century.

Thursday & Friday, Dresden Morning tour of Meissen, with ample time to stop at the porcelain factory. Our cycling route to Dresden will follow the river, passing through the many small wine villages. Friday morning we have a walking tour of Dresden, a city that is considered one of the architectural and cultural treasures of the world. The Old Town is particularly impressive with the baroque cathedral and the newly completed Frauenkirch. There is free time for shopping and visiting museums. The Green Vault contains the impressive royal collection of silver, gold and the elaborate bejeweled painted figures.

Saturday, Bad Schandau Today we cycle through “Saxon Switzerland” with some of Germany’s most dramatic scenery. High sandstone cliffs and crags form a deep gorge through which the Elbe
River flows. The stone has been weathered and worn into a series of fantastic sculptured pillars, towers and arches. Konigstein Festung (Fortress) is the dominant landmark of the area and was once the most powerful fortification in Germany.

Sunday, Litomerice Ride through lovely agricultural countryside with small villages and woods. Midway into the route we cross over the border into the Czech Republic. Decin has long been the geographical gateway to Bohemia. It’s beautiful castle was formerly a Soviet Army barracks and is now under much needed restoration. It is possible to visit the castle’s Baroque rose garden, terraced into the north face of the rock.

Monday, Prague Continue cycling along the Elbe to its confluence with the Vltava River where Melnik Castle overlooks the valley. The Renaissance castle is visible for miles. Melnik lies in the heart of Bohemia’s wine growing region and its sunny vineyards produce the fruity Ludmila wine.

Tuesday, Prague This morning we have a sightseeing tour of “Prague the Golden”. The baroque splendor of the Czech capital has charmed musicians and poets for centuries with its beauty. We’ll visit Hradcany Castle and Charles Bridge with its beautiful baroque statues. Special farewell party and dinner.

Wednesday Transfer to Prague Airport or if you have time you may want to stay another day or two in this fascinating city.

Tour price: $4,195 per person, $685 single supplement
Tour date: June 19 to June 30, 2010 (12 days/11 nights)
Tour Leaders: Gerhard, Darlene & Tina

Tour cost includes:
Hotel accommodations for eleven nights, buffet breakfast each morning and ten dinners with wine or beer. Gratuities, taxes and service charges. Airport/hotel transfers. Historic walking tours with local guides and special wine tasting. Most of our hotels offer spa facilities to enjoy at the end of a biking day. The support vehicle transfers all luggage, offers mechanical assistance and limited spare parts, and provides a lift if a tour member should tire during the cycling day. It is equipped with a mobile phone and a small library of information on the areas that we visit. In addition to the support wagon, a small coach will also accompany the group on some days.

Daily biking distances:
Detailed maps and route sheets will be provided. On most days we’ll have three cycling options with average distances of 28, 35 and 51 miles. The majority of the standard cycling routes are on bike paths and designated bike routes. Because this region is still recovering from Communism, there will be occasional stretches of cobblestones, rough pavement and bits of hard packed dirt. Shortcuts will be available as well as the option of longer and more challenging rides.

Bike rentals:
Good quality bike rentals can be arranged at € 175 (Euro). All frames are hybrid style with upright handlebars and have a choice of men’s or women’s frame. They are equipped with Shimano components, 27 gears, rack, handlebar bag, odometer and a rear view mirror. If you prefer to use toe clips you must bring your own pedals. Should you choose to bring your own bike, details will be outlined in the pre-departure information packet.

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