At a Glance
Submerge in the thrill of a cycle through a thousand years of history, across Germany’s eastern borders and into Austria. Witness the beauty on this stretch of the Danube as you ride along a kaleidoscope of hilltop castles, quaint villages, picturesque vineyards and more on this 11 day cycling adventure from Passau to Vienna.
Your adventure begins in Passau, the Three Rivers City, for an overnight stay and time to explore the city at your own pace. The next morning, pedal to Obernzell famed for pottery and uncover the Keramicmuseum, a famous ceramics museum before crossing the border into Austria. Unearth the serene Donauschlinge Nature Reserve as you spend time absorbing its stunning views before heading to Ottensheim beach. Pedal alongside the Danube, and traverse Enns, the oldest city in Austria. ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- Luggage transfers between hotels
- High quality bikes (e-bike available at additional cost)
- All breakfasts
- 10 nights accommodation in 3-4 star hotels on a twin share basis (room upgrades available on request)
- Route directions and maps
Itinerary
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Making your own way from the airport, your adventure begins in the “City of Three Rivers,” Passau, a city with unfiltered aesthetics and religious pilgrimage. You’ll stay at the riverfront Hotel Residenz. Located in the heart of Passau, it embodies a tasteful ambience with attention to the tiniest details. Settle in and relieve stress from the travel by getting a therapeutic massage at the spa (at own expense) or rejuvenate in the sauna. This evening, explore the Old Town by night and meander through its historical streets. Indulge in a dinner affair where an array of restaurants boast local authentic cuisine. |
Hotel Residenz, Passau 
Breakfast |
TWO BIKING OPTIONS Before your adventure, a local representative welcomes and provides you with a bike along with a safety briefing. Cycle east to Obernzell, a municipality in the district of Passau famed for pottery, before stopping by Keramicmuseum in a riverside castle. As you cross into Austria, you may be tempted to eat lunch as you are sure to catch more than a whiff of the scent of wood smoke and grilled trout. On getting to Austria, you will discover that the valley is steeper and adorned with oak woods. You’ll stay at Hotel Donauschlinge, situated at the famed Schlogen Loop of the Danube River between Linz and Passau, making it an ideal point for our biking adventure. Once you get there, unwind in the pool before savouring dinner on the terrace with a view of passenger boats cruising past and glowing with fairy lights. |
Hotel Donauschlinge, Haibach ob der DonauBreakfast  |
Level 2, Approx. 27 km (17 miles), 2-3 hours biking Today, sight kingfishers on your visit to the Donauschlinge Nature Reserve. Pause and take in beautiful panoramas at the picnic tables that decorate the waterfront before you get to Aschach’s frescoed waterfront. Then, board the Liz ferry, or follow a footpath through reed swamps to Ottensheim beach for a swim. Catch the train here and arrive at your hotel for the day, Hotel Wolfinger. A 15th century convent, it is located on the main square in Linz, giving off that old-world allure. |
Hotel Wolfinger, LinzBreakfast |
Level 3, Approx. 61 km (38 miles), 3-5 hours biking Today’s route takes us away from the Danube to Austria’s oldest city, the 12th Century Enns. Later on, we pedal back to the Danube and continue to the stunning little village of Ardagger. On getting there, we settle into our family-style hotel, Hotel Schiffsmeisterhaus, situated 750 m from the Danube and set in a 16th-century building. Settle into your room and rest your body from the day’s journey. |
Hotel Schiffmeisterhaus, ArdaggerBreakfast |
Level 3, Approx. 55 km (34 miles), 3-5 hours biking Begin the day with a brief tour of the small charming town of Grein before pedaling through the fertile Danube Valley. Make a stop in Ybbs, home to a peculiar collection of penny-farthings, for lunch. Marvel at the hilltop twin towers of Maria Taferl and even Melk’s monastery as we pedal towards Margaret Ebner’s welcoming family hotel in Melk. The location of this 4-star hotel is impressive as it lies in the centre of Melk and offers panoramas of its abbey. Soothe your muscles with a spa treatment (at own expense) or take a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool. The rest of your day is yours to uncover the wonders of Melk. . |
Hotel Zur Post, MelkBreakfast |
Today, you will be in awe of iconic monasteries and castles this region is known for. Melk’s gigantic Benedictine monastery was rebuilt in 1683, and the interior is just as awe-inspiring as the countryside vistas from the rooftop terrace. For the day’s trip, pedal to Schloss Schallaburg (8 km return), an exceptional Renaissance castles north of the Alps, where you can take a walk in the spectacular rose gardens and enjoy celebrated cultural exhibitions. |
Hotel Zur PostBreakfast, Dinner |
Level 2, Approx. 39 km (24 miles), 2-3 hours biking Begin the day by cycling along the UNESCO Wachau Valley, a string of villages and vineyards anchored by beautiful churches along the north bank. Each village has its allure, especially Durnstein, where Richard the Lionheart was held for ransom in the rocky hilltop castle. Devour with your eyes the statuette, Venus of Willendorf, dating back to 23,000 BC. After that, arrive in Krems for a relaxing haven in Steigenberger Hotel, encompassed by surrounding vineyards. It also features walking and cycling trails at close quarters, perfect for your free time while here. Relax with a refreshing dip in one of the two pools before preparing for a candlelit dinner on the terrace, which offers a view over the River Danube. |
Steigenberger Hotel & Spa, KremsBreakfast, Dinner |
Today, is yours to make your own adventures to explore the historic city of Krems. A town that houses some of the most stunning historic centres in Europe and is saturated with attractions, from the Wine Museum in a restored Dominican monastery to the 13th-century abbey that displays paintings of Martin Johann Schmidt. You can cycle out to Schloss Grafenegg (14 km away), a sculpture-encrusted Gothic castle seated on 85 acres of parkland, ideal for picnics. For those in pursue of a pampering session can simply unwind in the outdoor or indoor pool. Alternatively, rejuvenate at its spectacular 3,000 m² spa area spa spread over 3 levels complete with saunas, a salt-water steam bath and relaxation room with an open fireplace. |
Steigenberger Hotel & Spa, Krems Breakfast, Dinner |
Level 2, Approx. 41 km (25 miles), 2-3 hours biking Coast down the river to one of the oldest cities in Austria, Tulln, the “Town of Roses”. Explore the Roman museum saturated with artefacts before dining out amidst the fountains, statutes, and ornate buildings that decorate the pretty centre before heading back to your waterfront hotel. You’ll stay at a boutique 4-star hotel situated on the banks of the River Danube right next to the Egon Scholer Museum. Everything about the hotel, from the location, to the services and experience is unique. |
Hotel Nibelungenhoft, TullnBreakfast |
Level 2, Approx. 22 km (14 miles), 2-3 hours biking Freewheel down the last stretch, and spare some minutes to enjoy lunch in imperial Klosterneuburg. Then pedal along Danube Island before you continue to your hotel in the heart of the city, Hotel Austria. Spend the rest of your day exploring the romantic and charming city of Vienna. Meander its quaint cobbled streets in the Old Town and uncover historic landmarks such as the beautiful St. Stephen’s Cathedral. This evening, savour a delicious dinner out in Vienna’s bustling centre, which is astonishingly floodlit at night! |
Hotel Austria, ViennaBreakfast |
Savour one last breakfast, a perfect time to reflect on your incredible journey before you bid farewell and make your own arrangements for your onward travel. Alternatively, airport transfers can be arranged at an additional cost, please contact us. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
NoneBreakfastDates & Prices
Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
More Info
- The departure point is Passau
- The finish point is Vienna
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Passau. The closest international airport is Linz Airport and is 108 km from the center of Passau. Other major airports are Salzburg International Airport, 134km and Munich International Airport which is 166km from Passau.
- Airport transfers are not included. Joining location starts in your accommodation in Passau making your own arrangements there. Alternatively, airport transfers can be arranged at an additional cost, please contact us.
Germany and Austria enjoy a moderate climate with summertime temperatures that are usually quite comfortable. However, both countries are prone to variable weather, particularly in the Alps where mountain weather can quickly turn and temperatures can drop significantly at any time.
The biking level on this trip is rated Level 1 Leisurely.
Level 1: Leisurely
If you can ride a bike and enjoy gentle exercise, these trips are an ideal introduction to a cycling adventure. No routes are entirely flat, so expect some short climbs and descents. Maximum daily height gain is approximately 985ft (300m). The average daily distance is 12mi to 25mi (40km to 70km); on rare occasions, you may cycle up to 32mi (50km). Longer days are often optional.
Level 3: Moderate
You need to be in good health and reasonably fit. Moderate trips are ideal for occasional/weekend cyclists or fitter riders looking for a more relaxed adventure. Off-road trips do not require experience. Expect average daily distances between 25mi and 43mi (40km and 70km); on rare occasions, you may cycle up to 62mi (100km).
Level 5: Challenging
Fitness is vital. Challenging trips require confidence in your ability and physical condition. They are equivalent to an extended period of cycling at home. Mountain biking experience is essential for Challenging off-road trips, as they will involve some technical riding. Expect average daily distances between 31mi and 56mi (50km and 90km); on rare occasions, you may cycle up to 75mi (120km).
Level 7: Tough
Experience of the trip’s cycling style is essential, with long days on the saddle and tougher terrain both on- and off-road. You need complete confidence in your fitness and technical ability to cope with difficult or steep terrains, rough surfaces and longer distances. Tough trips are ideal if you’re looking to test yourself. Expect average daily distances between 50mi and 62mi (80km and 100km); on rare occasions, you may cycle up to 100mi (160km).
Split grades
Where a trip falls between two grades, we use an intermediate or ‘split’ grade, for example, Level 2 (Leisurely/Moderate).
Much of the cycling is on the old river towpath which is now lovely, flat and surfaced; previously up to 60 horses strained to drag heavy cargo boats upstream against the powerful current! Today, dozens of farms and cafes offer waterfront lunch stops as you cycle between sun-baked villages and wayside stalls piled high with apples, peaches and plums. Most cycling days are completely flexible, as local boat and train services are excellent, cheap and cater brilliantly to cyclists.
As this is a self-guided holiday there is no group and no leader. A local representative is on hand to assist you and will meet you at the beginning of the week to go through the route notes and point out particular places of interest. Your luggage is transferred and route directions and maps are provided. Please note: the luggage transfers included in this tour are subject to a minimum of 2 people (in total) booked on the departure. A supplement (payable in advance) to cover these transfers and sole occupancy of a room will apply if only 1 person travelling on a departure date.
Essential Equipment
- Waterproofs
- Warm jumper/fleece
- Suncream
- Water bottle (1 litre) you will be able to refill each day at the accommodation
- Please note that cycling helmets are compulsory in Austria for all customers under 12 yrs. As we are unable to provide these, we strongly recommend that you bring your own.
Extra bike accessories
You may like to bring your own pedals and saddle (excluding the seat post) or gel saddle cover to fit to the hire bikes. We encourage this, if it is your preference. However, please note that you are responsible for your own equipment, and removing your saddle/pedals at the end of the trip. We cannot guarantee the return of any bike parts left behind.
Recommended Clothing
Padded cycling shorts (with loose ‘over-shorts’ where recommended), breathable clothing, and a lightweight waterproof/windproof top. Shoes with relatively stiff soles are better for biking, but are not essential unless you are cycling long distances. Most people want to carry certain items with them during the day while cycling, for this we recommend a large bum bag (fanny pack) or small close-fitting daysack.
E-bike upgrade
Electric bikes are available on this trip at an additional cost. Please contact us to book.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 90 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 90 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 90 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 90 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. The tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The walks take place in very special wilderness settings. The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a walk with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the walk has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any walk up to 60 days prior to departure if a minimum of 4 walkers are unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the walk or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.
