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The water was a blend of olive, blue-grey and dark-sea green. I watched as three rivers flowed gently into one.
Cycling the Danube
The Inn River from the south and the Ilz River from the north merged together into the spectacular watercourse of the Danube, the second-longest river in Europe.
We started off in Passau, a town in Lower Bavaria, Germany. Our aim was to cycle the course of the Danube for 300km until we reached Vienna – almost across the top of Austria.
Cycle stop by the Danube
For six days, we rode through evergreen Austrian forests surrounded by picturesque, steep-sided valleys. The magnificent Melk Abbey shone gold in the sun above us and the harrowing presence of Mauthausen Memorial was unforgettable.
Self-guided cycling in Austria is truly brilliant for beginners – our riverside route was flat and undemanding on our legs, and clear directions and good signposting left us free to enjoy the scenery instead of hours puzzling over maps.
St. Charles’ church, Vienna
Absorb the history on route with the beautiful abbeys, imposing castles and sobering concentration camps on route. Finish the trip in Vienna, the resident city of the Habsburg dynasty and a resplendent, lavish display of architectural prowess.
Local Produce
Dining in Austria
With our inclusive wine tasting, you can sample locally sourced wine served with local breads and charcuterie.
The Danube bike path passes through Wachau, a picturesque landscape with a 2,000 year history of producing fine wines.
On the banks of the Danube
The Danube Cycle Path is one of the most famous cycle routes in Europe.
Take a look at our Cycling trips along the Danube below.
