The Rhine Cycle Route - Mike Wells

Embark on an extraordinary cycling journey along the Rhine Cycle Route (EuroVelo 15), one of Europe’s most scenic and accessible long-distance trails. Spanning 1,368 km (850 miles) from the Swiss Alps to the North Sea, the route follows the majestic Rhine River through Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, Germany, France, and the Netherlands. With diverse landscapes, historic landmarks, and smooth, well-marked paths, it offers an unforgettable adventure for cyclists of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or new to touring, this comprehensive Cicerone guidebook leads you from the Rhine’s alpine source to the North Sea, dividing the adventure into 27 manageable daily stages. Discover dramatic mountain scenery, the romantic castles of the Middle Rhine Valley, vibrant cities like Basel, Strasbourg, and Cologne, and the peaceful waterways of the Netherlands, offering a rich tapestry of Europe’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. The Cicerone guidebook follows the renowned Rhine Cycle Route (EuroVelo 15), tracing the Rhine River from its alpine source in Switzerland to the North Sea, passing through iconic destinations such as Lake Constance (Bodensee), Basel, Strasbourg, Speyer, the UNESCO-listed Rhine Gorge, Koblenz, Cologne (Köln), Arnhem, and Rotterdam. Experience cycling highlights including the spectacular Rhine Falls near Schaffhausen, the legendary Loreley Rock, the scenic Rheingau wine region, the historic castles and vineyards of the Middle Rhine Valley between Mainz and Cologne, and the traditional windmills of Kinderdijk near Dordrecht. Benefit from comprehensive daily stage descriptions, easy-to-read maps, total distances, elevation profiles, up-to-date cycling conditions, and downloadable GPX tracks, making planning and navigation along the Rhine Cycle Route effortless. Choose from suggested 14-day, 21-day, or month-long cycling itineraries, with expert tips on customising your Rhine bike adventure and connecting seamlessly to the Moselle Cycle Route at Koblenz. Find curated recommendations for cyclist-friendly hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, and essential services conveniently located in picturesque towns and vibrant cities along the entire EuroVelo 15 route. Get invaluable guidance on bicycle preparation, packing essentials, cross-border travel between Switzerland, Germany, France, and the Netherlands, and seasonal tips to ensure an enjoyable and successful Rhine River cycling holiday from start to finish. Plan your Rhine Cycle Route adventure with confidence and experience an unforgettable European adventure with this definitive guidebook.