The Danube Cycling Holiday

Brigach und Breg bringen die Donau zuweg is the phrase people say here meaning that the Brigach and Breg rivers jointly form the river Danube. The Romans considered the spring in the parkland of Castle Fürstenberg to be the start of the Danube. The castle, in the style of the Belle Epoque, is an impressive testimony to Fürstenberg Family’s former significance. Reserved rental bicycles are parked at the hotel ready for you.

This section takes you through the Baar region. In Immendingen you can visit a natural wonder ‒ the Danube Sinkhole. This is where the river disappears for the majority of the year. Instead of flowing to the Black Sea, part of the Danube flows via the Aachtopf into Lake Constance and the Rhine. Behind Tuttlingen, the valley narrows and you reach Beuron with its well-known Benedictine Monastery.

Today, you follow the Danube through the wonderful countryside that has evolved in this valley over the course of the years. The over 100 m high chalkstone rocks, which are crowned by the occasional castle or ruin, line your route. Via Sigmaringen with its majestic Hohenzollern Palace you cycle to Obermarchtal on the Upper Swabian Baroque road.

You cycle along the Danube until you reach Ehingen, then you follow the valley of the ancient Danube. In Blaubeuren you find the mystical Blautopf, a strong carstic spring, close to the monastery. The beautiful Lau, a mythical mermaid, is said to inhabit the spring. The tower of Ulm Minster can already be seen from afar. Around it you will find the shopping area. The fishing district still emanates medieval flair.

The stage leads along the Danube Cycle Route to Donauwörth. The villages are mainly located somewhat off the beaten track on hills protected from the river floodwaters. Those who wish can take a break in one of the well maintained villages. In Donauwörth a former important trade route crosses over the Danube. The majestic town houses testify to the historical significance of the town.

Today you will be moving on swiftly. You soon reach the foothills of the Franconian Alb mountains, which liven up the route as you cycle along this gently undulating section of the tour. It’s worth taking a look at Neuburg’s old town, for example the court church or the town theatre. Ingolstadt has a wonderful medieval flair and is known all over the world as the town where Audi manufactures its cars. Visit the Mobile Museum or wander through the historic city centre.

The tour leads mainly directly through the Danube floodplains alongside the river. Near Bad Gögging you reach the ancient Roman cultural landscape, in Weltenburg the famous monastery and the majestic Danube Gorge. You continue on along the Danube, crossing over from the left to right banks Regensburg, the best preserved large German town which has recently been declared a UNESCO world heritage site.

The athletic ascent to the Walhalla memorial, which Ludwig I opened in 1842, is certainly worthwhile. Your journey then continues along the Danube, which carves its path through the open plain in wide riverbends. Cycle through the Gäuboden region via Straubing, before reaching Deggendorf, the gate to the Bavarian Forest national park. In the evening, go for a stroll through the charming historical town centre, which is an absolute must-see.

After the challenging stages of the previous days, you easily master today’s route. Cycling via Vilsholfen, you will soon reach Passau, the city of three rivers. Explore the rivers Danube, Inn and Ilz from a boat, and let the evening come to a relaxing close on a stroll through the historic city centre. The Veste Oberhaus fortress, which towers above the city, is also worth a visit!

You will have covered around 600 km on your bike from Donaueschingen to Passau – a true accomplishment. If you would like to stay a little longer, we’d be happy to extend your Danube cycling holiday. There is much to see in Passau!