Trip code: C07BL 4.3 (3 reviews)
Self-guided cycling
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2+
Moderate plus
14.0Kg CO2e
Printed route
directions
Optional
e-bike hire
Prepare for an exhilarating self-guided cycling trip through the heart of Upper Bavaria, where each day promises excitement and discovery. Pedal along meandering paths through emerald meadows and by the shimmering lakes set against a backdrop of majestic mountains. Traverse routes that lead you to the very pages of German history, where you'll uncover the secrets of kings at Neuschwanstein Castle which translates to 'New Swan Stone' which inspired Walt Disney's Sleeping Beauty's Castle.
Explore the charming town of Hohenschwangau, tracing the footsteps of ancient Romans along the legendary Via Claudia Augusta. Your journey takes you to the famous Andechs Abbey, where Baroque grandeur meets the art of brewing. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of secluded lakes and marvel at the UNESCO-listed Pilgrimage Church of Wies, an architectural marvel nestled in nature.
Embrace the thrill of sailing on Lake Ammersee's tranquil waters aboard a vintage paddle steamer and follow the trail of the Romantic Road to the historic city of Augsburg. Delve into the town's medieval canals and marvel at the ingenious Water Management System, a testament to human engineering brilliance, recognised by UNESCO.
Delight in simple, traditional Bavarian cuisine during your cycling journey. Experience the hearty schweinshaxe, a slow-roasted whole pork knuckle marinated to perfection. Satisfy your sweet cravings with Kaiserschmarrn, caramelised fluffy pancakes enriched with raisins and seasonal fruits. For a beverage with a twist try German sweet sparkling wine, known as sekt, as you toast to your memorable journey.
Retreat to carefully selected 3-star hotels, offering comfort, welcoming Bavarian hospitality, and easy access to local wonders. Unravel the tapestry of the region's history, nature, and castles on this thrilling cycling holiday, where every moment is an adventure waiting to unfold.
And if you find yourself craving more adventure, consider extending your trip to the vibrant Bavarian capital, Munich. Immerse yourself in the postcard-like charm of the old town, explore the mystical Baroque wonders of Nymphenburg Palace, or marvel at the grandeur of Fraunkirche cathedral. Munich's worldwide fame is well-deserved, thanks to its stunning medieval architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Arrive at your hotel in the historic city of Augsburg, founded in 15 B.C. on the orders of Emperor Augustus.
You stay at Selected hotels.
Hotels, Bavaria
You will stay in a selection of 3 star hotels. The hotels are chosen for their excellent facilities and proximity to the relevant local sites as well as their welcoming Bavarian hospitality. All rooms have en suite facilities.
Extra nights can be booked in Augsburg.
From Augsburg cycle through traditional Bavarian villages, surrounded by lush meadows, before reaching the shores of Lake Ammersee. Relax by the lakeside or enjoy a boat trip on a paddle steamer before continuing to Lake Worthsee.
Today you will pedal along Lakes Worthsee and Pilsensee to Andechs Abbey - famed for its Baroque church and brewery! Enjoy swimming opportunities along the way at Lakes Ammersee, Staffelsee and Riegsee before arriving in the artist's town of Murnau.
Cycle from village to village in the foothills of the Bavarian Alps. Visit the UNESCO listed Pilgrimage Church of Wies, a beautifully preserved oval church and a masterpiece of Bavarian Rococo before continuing to the pretty town of Fussen.
In the morning visit King Ludwig's fairytale castles, Hohenschwangau and Neuschwanstein, before cycling along the scenic Via Claudia Augusta to Schongau. The town has a long history of settlement and is surrounded by fortified walls built in the Middle Ages.
Today your route follows the course of the River Lech with many attractions to visit en route to Landsberg. Take in St Michael's Basilica in Altenstadt, the Abodiacum Roman Museum in Epfach and the pilgrim church in Vilgertshofen.
Explore the medieval city centre of Landsberg am Lech with its historic city hall and the Gothic Bavarian Gate. Your cycle route takes you via Kaufering am Lech, to Konigsbrunn, enjoying 11km on the best-preserved section of the Via Claudia. Continue to Augsburg with its famous social housing complex from the year 1516.
Leave Augsburg
If you'd like to extend your trip with extra hotel nights we recommend: Hotel Opera, Munich.
The Hotel Opera is situated in the Lehel district of Munich, the area has a village feel to it, but is just a 15 minute walk to the main centre of Munich and a 20 minute walk to the Englischer Garten, Munich's huge leafy park.
The hotel has a wonderful Romanesque facade, and the building itself dates back to the 19th century, damaged in the war the building was bought in 1968 by the present owners who took 8 years to painstakingly restore and renovate the building.
Today's hotel is a nice mix of modern and old, with lovely airy rooms and and a relaxing tranquil garden patio. Rooms have all mod cons and some come with balconies, the hotel also owns a couple of superb restaurants close by.
Breakfast is served at your table with a choice of cold meats and cheeses or croissants and fruit and the option to order freshly cooked eggs.
Please call for prices and details
These tour only prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from NZ$504.
Twin-bedded rooms in German resorts are normally one large base with two mattresses/duvets. Separate twin beds are rare and cannot be guaranteed.
Call now to speak to our specialist team at 0044 1606 720199 or email us at sales@headwater.com for enquiries or to book your trip.
Self-guided cycling
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2+
Moderate plus
14.0Kg CO2e
Printed route
directions
Optional
e-bike hire