Cycling Holiday along Altmühl and Danube

Your cycling holiday along the Altmühl and Danube riversbegins in Rothenburg, nestled in the scenic Tauber Valley. Here, you will encounter slender towers, charming timber-framed houses adorned with vibrant flowers, and impressive ancient defensive structures. Rothenburg's remarkably preserved historic centre, with its maze of narrow alleys, is considered the quintessential medieval German town and is a favourite among tourists. Pre-booked rental bicycles will be awaiting you at the hotel.

Today you can opt for a diversion to the source of the Altmühl before taking a first break in Colmberg. The mighty, well-preserved castle towers over the town – the climb is steep, but worth it! Then continue on to the margravial seat of Ansbach. Visit the princely crypt here or take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque orangery in Ansbach's courtyard garden.

Cycle through lush fields and meadows towards Lake Altmühlsee, a perfect destination for sailing, surfing, and swimming. Countless sun-drenched spots and beaches offer inviting places to pause and relax. Upon reaching Gunzenhausen, you will find yourself in the heart of the Franconian Lake District. The historic marketplace is framed by striking Baroque buildings. Continue your journey through picturesque rural landscapes as you make your way to today's destination.

Beyond Treuchtlingen, the Altmühl Valley narrows as the river has carved its way deep into the Jurassic rock. The Twelve Apostles, a striking group of rock formations, stand as one of the valley's most remarkable natural landmarks. In Pappenheim, you will encounter the imposing castle from which the town takes its name, one of Bavaria's most significant medieval castle ruins. Continue along the winding course of the Altmühl River to your next destination: Eichstätt, a charming episcopal see and baroque town.

After breakfast, take the opportunity to enjoy a leisurely stroll through Eichstätt. The town, the principal settlement in the Altmühl Valley, owes much of its baroque charm to the skilled Graubünden master builders who reconstructed it following the devastation of the Thirty Years' War. From here, today's stage of your cycling holiday along the Altmühl and Danube river will lead you through picturesque nature parks and fragrant juniper heaths. You will also pass the impressive Kipfenberg Castle. Your journey concludes in the serene and picturesque village of Kinding-Enkering, nestled at the confluence of the Anlauter, Schwarzach, and Altmühl rivers.

Before you mount your bike once more, take the time to visit a truly unique building in Kinding: the Kirchenburg. This fortified church, dating back to the 14th century, stands as a testament to the town's rich history. From Beilngries, you will cycle the final stretch along the Altmühl River, which ultimately flows into the Main-Danube Canal at Dietfurt. Known as the Chinese Town, Dietfurt draws its name from a local legend, which is reflected in a fountain situated in front of the market square. Your journey concludes in the peaceful town of Riedenburg here three majestic castles stand sentinel.

An exciting stage awaits you today on your cycling holiday along the Danube and Altmühl river valleys. Just before reaching Kelheim, you will encounter Schulerloch, a 420-metre-long stalactite cave that offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of stalactites and stalagmites. Kelheim is also home to Bavaria’s oldest still-operating wheat beer brewery. From there, continue via Saal and Bad Abbach, a charming town situated at the northernmost point of the Danube, known for its picturesque old town. Your journey culminates in Regensburg, a city steeped in history and culture.

We highly recommend taking your first break at Walhalla, located near Donaustauf. From there, the route continues along the Danube to Castle Wörth, where you can enjoy stunning views over the Gäuboden, often referred to as Bavaria’s granary, and one of the largest loess regions in southern Germany. Today's journey concludes in the historic town of Straubing, which boasts Celtic and Roman origins. The town’s iconic tower stands as a striking landmark, symbolising its rich history.

Today you first cycle through Bogen, which became known when a statue of the pregnant Madonna was found here in 1104. The Church of the Assumption on Bogenberg is the oldest pilgrimage church of the Madonna in Bavaria. The tour takes you on through Pfelling and Mariaposching to the Benedictine Abbey in Metten. Deggendorf is your destination today. Gothic and baroque styles characterise the unusual pear-shaped site of the old town.

This stage leads you to the charming historic town of Vilshofen, renowned primarily for the Ash Wednesday speeches delivered here by Franz Josef Strauß, the former chairman of the CSU political party. From Vilshofen, you will soon reach your destination: Passau, the "three-rivers town" and former diocese. Explore the confluence of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers by boat, and conclude your day with a leisurely stroll through the historic city centre or a visit to the imposing Veste Oberhaus fortress.

After breakfast, your cycling holiday along the Altmühl and Danube rivers comes to a close, and you will either return home or head back to Rothenburg. Should you wish to extend your journey, we would be delighted to assist in adding extra days to your cycling vacation.