Cycling the Moselle Valley, Trier to Koblenz
Day 1, Sunday: Transfer to Trier - Germany's oldest city
You will be met at the airport or railway station (depending on your arrangements) and transferred to the hotel in the heart of Trier. Founded by the Romans around 16 B.C., Trier is a city steeped in history. Many Roman structures are still standing and open to visitors, including the impressive Porta Nigra city gate, the Imperial Baths and the amphitheatre, to name just a few.
In the evening, we gather at a local restaurant where meet your fellow cyclists and have the chance to sample the region’s wines for the first time.
Day 2, Monday: Cycling along the rivers Moselle and Saar to Saarburg
After collecting your bicycle in the morning, you are set for today’s leisurely ride along the Moselle. The flat route upstream takes us between the river and the vineyards, leading to the charming town of Saarburg. The place is best known for its picturesque waterfall in the town centre, surrounded by quaint shops and cosy cafés - perfect for a relaxing break.
Having cycled for a total of 21 miles today, we take the train back to Trier. Alternatively, hop on your bicycle and return home independently: Simply follow the cycle path by the river for about 13 miles downstream.
Once back at the hotel, we get ready for dinner at one of the finest restaurants in Trier.
(21 miles/33 km + 13 miles/21 km optional, picnic included)
Day 3, Tuesday: The capital of the Roman Empire
After a restful night, we begin the day with a guided walking tour, exploring Trier’s rich and fascinating history. Known as one of Germany’s oldest cities, Trier was a bustling metropolis in Roman times and even served as the capital of the Western Roman Empire in the 4th century. You will have some spare time around mid-day: Continue exploring the city at your own pace and grab lunch on the way back to the hotel. There are plenty of options to refuel and unwind.
In the early afternoon, we’ll set off on our bicycles, covering around 21 miles. The scenic route follows the Moselle downstream. We again pass picturesque vineyards, before arriving at the next hotel. We’ll round off the day with a dinner, enjoying good food and great company.
(21 miles/34 km, lunch on your own today)
Day 4, Wednesday: From grapevine to medicine
Today’s route once again takes us through charming villages and along vineyards reaching as far as the eye can see. We pass renowned hillsides such as Trittenheimer Apotheke and Wehlener Sonnenuhr, highly esteemed by wine enthusiasts around the world.
By early afternoon, we arrive in Bernkastel-Kues for a guided tour through its history. We stroll past chocolate-box architecture while hearing fascinating stories and amusing local legends. One such tale involves the Doctorwein, a wine from a small hillside above the town. Since 1620, this special wine has been said to cure the ill and bring joy to the healthy..
The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy as you wish. Visit the ruins of Landshut Castle, wander the picturesque old town or search for your own bottle of the legendary Doctorwein.
(19 miles/30 km, picnic included)
Day 5, Thursday: A black cat along the way
From Bernkastel-Kues, we follow the Moselle as it meanders the land on its way to Zell. The town is famous for its vineyard, called Zell’s Black Cat. The story behind the name dates back to 1863, when three merchants struggled to decide which cask of wine to purchase. The tasting went on and on, until the winegrower’s black cat suddenly jumped onto one of the casks, arched its back, and hissed at anyone who came near. Seeing this as a sign, the merchants made their choice - and a legendary name was born. Today, 80% of the wine from this vineyard is sold outside Germany.
(25 miles/40 km, picnic included)
Day 6, Friday: The secret below the soil
On our final day of cycling, we have 23 miles ahead of us, passing vineyard after vineyard along the way. As we near Cochem, Reichsburg Castle comes into view, greeting us from high above the town. The castle, destroyed in a 17th-century war, was rebuilt 200 years later by a wealthy businessman and is now open to visitors.
However, we bypass the castle and venture somewhere even more intriguing - a hidden treasure beneath the earth. Behind doors one only gets to see on theatre screens, lies a place steeped in recent world history.
An hour later, back in the daylight, we make our way to meet the coach that will take us to our hotel in Koblenz. The day concludes with another dinner at a traditional restaurant, the perfect end to an eventful journey.
(23 miles/37 km, picnic included)
Day 7, Saturday: Shuttle service to the airport
Sadly, it is time to depart. We have to say "Good bye", but we really hope to see you again one day. Our shuttle service will get you to the train station or nearby airport of your choice.
You may also extend your stay in Koblenz for a day or two. Situated pleasantly at the confluence of Moselle and Rhine, the city offers numerous options to explore the places up- and downstream. Don’t hesitate asking us for additional information.
Next:
- Learn about included services & costs
- See for travel options & departure dates
- Read reviews from previous guests
- Get an overview over this cycle tour
- Get more detailed information about this holiday in your mailbox