Koblenz to Heidelberg

Koblenz to Heidelberg

Day 1: Embarkation in Koblenz
Day 2: Kobenz - St. Goar, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 3: St. Goar - Oberwesel | Oberwesel - Rüdesheim am Rhein, 15 mi. (25 km)
Day 4: Rüdesheim - Mainz, 22 mi. (35 km)
Day 5: Mainz - Worms, 34 mi. (55 km)
Day 6: Worms - Heidelberg, 28 mi. (45 km)
Day 7: Heidelberg, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 8: Disembarkation in Heidelberg

All distances are approximate. The itinerary is subject to change sometimes without prior notice.  Some waterways may be subject to occasional closures due to drought, storms, floods, canal or lock repairs, or other unforeseen circumstances that make navigation unsafe or impossible. The captain reserves the right to make any changes deemed necessary.

Day 1: Embarkation in Koblenz
Embarkation begins at 1:30 pm followed by a welcome meeting and bike assignment. Koblenz is a historic city in western Germany, known for its strategic location at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers. Its history dates back to Roman times and is reflected in landmarks such as the Deutsches Eck and the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. You will visit the castle and enjoy a cable car ride over the Rhine. Enjoy this cultural hub, surrounded by scenic beauty including vineyards and castles. 

Day 2: Kobenz - St. Goar, 25 mi. (40 km)
Following a hearty breakfast, your cycling adventure commences, leading you towards the timeless city of Boppard. Here, the Rhine River performs a breathtaking nearly 180-degree turn. Renowned for its towering vineyards, charming riverside promenades, and ancient Roman fortifications—among the oldest preserved in the Alps region—Boppard has always captivated visitors with its allure.

Your ultimate destination lies across the river in St. Goar, facing the legendary Loreley. To reach this iconic landmark, a combination of ferry and bus transport awaits. Upon arrival, a scenic hiking trail unveils the breathtaking beauty of the narrowest stretch of the enchanting Rhine Valley.

The Loreley Plateau bears the earliest signs of human settlement dating back approximately 600,000 years when it stood level with the Rhine. Throughout the Middle Ages, the Loreley, alongside the treacherous Binger Loch, gained notoriety as the most perilous section of the Rhine, claiming many vessels and lives. Legend has it that Saint Goar, nestled directly opposite the Loreley, dedicated himself to rescuing shipwrecked mariners and nursing them back to health, cementing his legacy as a protector of seafarers.

Day 3: St. Goar - Oberwesel | Oberwesel - Rüdesheim am Rhein, 15 mi. (25 km)
Your day begins as you navigate onboard along the captivating Lorelei, where the twinkling lights guide your ship upstream while alerting of passing vessels downstream.

Returning to the bike path, castles come into view as you pedal towards Ruedesheim. This historic town has been graced by Roman vineyards since ancient times! Take a leisurely stroll through the renowned “Drosselgasse,” famous for its vibrant music scene, and savor the delightful wines of this charming wine village. Though it spans only 144 m, this ancient alleyway boasts an astonishing 37,508 paving stones.

Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Asbach Center, a bastion of German brandy production since 1892. Not a fan of brandy? Fear not, as they also craft delectable chocolates sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Day 4: Rüdesheim - Mainz, 22 mi. (35 km)
Leaving the picturesque wine village behind, you will pedal onwards towards Mainz, nestled at the confluence of the Main and Rhine rivers. Like many settlements, Mainz traces its roots back to the Romans who established it as a military stronghold in the 1st century, later evolving into a prominent city within the Holy Roman Empire.

During the reign of Charlemagne (768-814), Mainz held a pivotal position within the vast Frankish Empire, emerging as a significant center both politically and religiously. It also holds a place in history as the birthplace of Johannes Gutenberg's revolutionary invention, the movable type printing press. In the early 1450s, Gutenberg produced the world's first books here, including the iconic Gutenberg Bible.

Despite enduring over 30 air raids during World War II, Mainz has shown resilience, with many of its historic structures painstakingly rebuilt in the aftermath of destruction. Today, Mainz stands as a testament to its rich heritage, blending ancient history with modern vitality.

Day 5: Mainz - Worms, 34 mi. (55 km)
Today features one of Northern Europe's oldest cities, once the capital of the Kingdom of the Burgundians in the early fifth century! Worms Cathedral stands as a magnificent testament to Romanesque architecture, showcasing the grandeur of the era.

Worms holds a unique place in history, renowned not only for its Catholic heritage but also for its vibrant Jewish community during the Middle Ages. This rich cultural tapestry has earned Worms, along with Speyer and Mainz, a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list, commemorating their significant contributions to European Jewish life. As we explore Worms, we'll delve into its storied past, where ancient history and religious diversity intertwine, creating a fascinating mosaic of traditions and legacies.

Day 6: Worms - Heidelberg, 28 mi. (45 km)
As you pass through Mannheim, you transition into the enchanting Neckar region! Your journey leads you to Heidelberg, one of Germany's most renowned and ancient cities. Perched atop the Königsstuhl (King’s Seat), the Gothic and Renaissance castle dominates the skyline, overlooking the esteemed German university. Ascend via funicular to delve into the depths of this red sandstone marvel, home to the world's largest wine barrel—crafted from the timber of 130 trees, boasting a staggering 58,500-gallon oak belly. Thankfully, Heidelberg emerged from World War II unscathed, its original architecture preserved. However, the castle has weathered its share of challenges over the centuries, enduring lightning strikes and partial plundering by French adversaries.

Heidelberg's legacy extends beyond its architectural splendor. It was here, in 1817, that former student Baron von Drais conceived the world's first bicycle—an artifact now housed in the Kurpfälzisches Museum. Delve deeper into the surrounding forest to discover the Thingstätte, a Nazi-era amphitheater commissioned by Joseph Goebbels for propaganda spectacles. To reach this hidden gem, cross the Old Bridge spanning the river, ascend the winding Schlangenweg (Snake Path), and follow the Philosophen Weg (Philosopher's Way)—a journey culminating in the ultimate sunset vista over Heidelberg.

Day 7: Heidelberg, 25 mi. (40 km)
Heidelberg captivates with its historic charm, natural beauty, academic prominence, and cultural events. The majestic castle (Schloss Heidelberg) sits majestically on a hill overlooking the city. A combination of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, you can take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding area, visit the castle ruins, and wander through the charming gardens. The Altstadt (Old Town) of Heidelberg is another highlight. It features narrow, winding streets with well-preserved medieval buildings, baroque-style houses, and traditional German timber-framed structures. The Hauptstrasse (Main Street) is the longest pedestrian shopping street in Europe and is filled with shops, cafés, and restaurants.

Day 8: Disembarkation in Heidelberg
Disembarkation after breakfast at approximately 9 am.

If you're looking for a different flavor, check out our entire list of tours & trips including hiking, biking, multi-adventure & more.

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