Highlights & Hinterland
Cycling through Austria, Switzerland, and Germany offers a truly diverse and enchanting experience, and the Lake Constance region is no exception. As you embark on this guided bike tour, you'll discover the hidden gems and lesser-known treasures of this picturesque area. Away from the hustle and bustle of the main tourist routes, you'll immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the hinterland, where every turn reveals a new panorama of natural splendor. From lush forest paths to vibrant orchards and rolling vineyards, each landscape exudes its own charm and allure. Quaint villages and hamlets dot the countryside, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of local life. Nestled in the foothills of the Alps, this region is steeped in history and culture, with architectural marvels and historical sites waiting to be explored.
Throughout your journey, you'll be treated to the finest accommodations the region has to offer, ensuring a comfortable and rejuvenating stay. Whether you're admiring the views from a charming inn or indulging in the luxury of a lakeside hotel, each accommodation promises a memorable experience.
As you pedal through this timeless landscape, you'll find yourself inspired by the same beauty that captivated artists and poets throughout the ages. With each pedal stroke, you'll forge a deeper connection with the natural world, leaving behind the stresses of modern life and embracing the tranquility of the countryside. Welcome to a journey of discovery, where every moment is a testament to the enduring allure of Lake Constance and its surrounding region.
Highlights
- Natural and low- traffic bike routes on quiet forest and meadow paths
- Lovely boutique accommodations
- Historic seaside towns of Überlingen, Meersburg, Lindau, and Constance
- World cultural heritage St. Gallen and Reichenau Island
- Bioreserve of the Rhine delta
- Bregenzer Ache
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ITINERARY
- Day 1: Arrival in Überlingen
- Day 2: Rokoko and Prälatenweg, 22 mi. (35 km)
- Day 3: Morning transfer to Markdorf | Markdorf - Lindau, 32 mi. (51 km)
- Day 4: Lindau - St. Gallen, 20 mi. (32 km)
- Day 5: St. Gallen monastery district - Gottlieben, 23 or 28 mi. (37- 44 km)
- Day 6: Reichenau - Stein am Rhein, 22 mi. (36 km)
- Day 7: Stein am Rhein - Überlingen, 14 mi. (22 km)
PRIVATE TRIP
Experience the Freedom of Bespoke Travel. Imagine all the possibilities, and let us bring them to life. With our bespoke travel option, you have the power to design your perfect cycling adventure. Whether it's for a group of friends, a couple, or a family, we can customize our bike tours to suit your preferences. You decide who joins you, how and when you want to travel, and where you want to explore. Our Experience Designer will work closely with you to craft a personalized itinerary, infused with insider knowledge, local connections, and a touch of magic. This tour can be booked as offered, but we can also change tour details for your group on request. Additional overnight stays are also possible, as is a different route. We can also adapt the hotel category to your wishes.
Ready to start planning? Before we begin, we'd love to hear more about your vision. Get in touch today to begin your bespoke cycling adventure: Info@terranova-touristik.de | +49-69693054.
Day 1: Arrival in Überlingen
Your journey begins with a warm welcome at the Parkhotel St. Leonhard, perched high above Überlingen, offering breathtaking views of Lake Constance. Upon arrival, you'll have the opportunity to settle into your room, where comfort and luxury await. With panoramic vistas stretching across the lake, you'll feel a sense of serenity and tranquility envelop you.
At 4:00 p.m., your knowledgeable tour guide will meet you in the hotel lobby, ready to whisk you away to the heart of Überlingen for a guided tour of this historic imperial city. As you stroll through its medieval streets, you'll be transported back in time, marveling at the well-preserved architecture and ancient landmarks that tell the story of Überlingen's rich heritage.
The city's mighty gates and walls, hewn from the surrounding rock, stand as a testament to its medieval past, while Gothic stair gables and the grand cathedral of St. Nicholas beckon with their timeless beauty. Admire the intricate woodcarvings by Jörg Zürn, including the sacrament house and high altar, housed within the cathedral's walls.
After your insightful tour, you'll return to the Parkhotel St. Leonhard for a delightful dinner, served either in the hotel's elegant dining room or on the scenic terrace overlooking the lake. Indulge in exquisite cuisine crafted from the finest local ingredients, accompanied by the gentle breeze and panoramic views of Überlingen below. As the day draws to a close, retire to your comfortable accommodations, where restful sleep awaits amidst the tranquil surroundings. With its modern amenities and scenic location, the Parkhotel St. Leonhard offers the perfect retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation before or after your cycling adventure.
Day 2: Rokoko and Prälatenweg | 22 mi. (35 km)
After a hearty breakfast, you'll find the bikes eagerly awaiting you next to the hotel, ready to embark on today's cycling adventure. Setting off from the Parkhotel St. Leonhard, you'll begin with a leisurely descent followed by gently undulating terrain, guiding you along forested paths and verdant meadows that offer stunning vistas of Lake Constance. En route to Meersburg, a picturesque medieval town ensconced amidst steep vineyards, you'll pause at Birnau, a magnificent Rococo church that epitomizes the beauty of the Lake Constance landscape. From the church's balustrade, you'll be treated to sweeping panoramic views of the tranquil lake below, a sight to behold.
Meersburg itself exudes romance, with its quaint alleys and historic houses leading up to the commanding presence of the town's castle. Renowned artists, including poet Annette von Droste-Hülshof, have long been inspired by the charm of Meersburg and its idyllic surroundings. After exploring Meersburg at your own pace and enjoying a leisurely lunch, you'll resume your cycling journey towards Salem, once a flourishing Cistercian monastery. Along the way, you'll traverse fields, forests, and meadows, encountering the undisturbed beauty of the landscape shaped by glacial hills known as "drumlins." As you pedal onward, you'll follow in the footsteps of monks and priests who once traversed this very path, journeying from Salem Monastery to Birnau to conduct mass. Upon reaching Salem's monastery complex, now home to a prestigious boarding school, you'll have the opportunity to join a brief tour or simply indulge in a relaxing coffee break amidst the serene surroundings. Afterwards, you'll be transferred back to Überlingen, where you'll return to the welcoming embrace of the Parkhotel St. Leonhard. Here, against the backdrop of the shimmering lake and verdant hills, you'll savor a delicious dinner, reflecting on the day's adventures as you prepare for another restful night in this idyllic setting.
Day 3: Morning transfer to Markdorf | Markdorf - Lindau, 32 mi. (51 km )
After a short morning transfer of 22 km, your cycling adventure commences in the charming town of Markdorf. From here, you'll follow a lesser-known route that winds through quaint villages, verdant farmlands, and tranquil forests, offering a glimpse into the idyllic countryside. As you pedal onward, the landscape gradually descends towards the shores of Lake Constance, leading you to Wasserburg, aptly named for its historic peninsula rising majestically from the water. The iconic silhouette of Wasserburg, crowned by the baroque onion dome of St. George's Church, serves as a picturesque landmark against the backdrop of the lake. Continuing your journey towards Lindau, you'll delight in a traffic-free route that guides you to the very doorstep of your hotel at Lindau harbor. Here, you'll be greeted by the iconic port entrance adorned with a lighthouse and regal lions, a quintessential postcard motif of Lake Constance.
With the evening at your leisure, you'll have ample time to explore Lindau's harbor promenade, soak in the breathtaking alpine vistas, and dine at your leisure. Your accommodation for the night awaits at the Lindauer Hof, a charming family-run hotel nestled on the picturesque island of Lindau. Offering comfortable amenities and boasting a 4-star rating, the Lindauer Hof provides the perfect retreat after a day of exploration. Indulge in a leisurely stroll along the waterfront or unwind in the hotel's beautiful conservatory restaurant, where you can savor delectable cuisine while taking in panoramic views of the lake.
Day 4: Lindau - St. Gallen | 20 mi. (32 km)
Before embarking on your cycling journey, take the opportunity to explore the medieval wonders of Lindau on a guided tour. Delve into the city's rich history and architectural treasures as you wander through its charming alleys and streets adorned with arches. Marvel at the magnificently painted town hall, crowned with stepped gables, and admire the ornate churches that dot the landscape.
Lindau's bustling port, the largest in Bavaria, beckons with its iconic entrance, guarded by a towering lighthouse and a majestic stone lion. After immersing yourself in Lindau's medieval splendor, your cycling adventure continues as you cross the German-Austrian border en route to Bregenz. Pedal along winding paths near the shoreline, traversing natural landscapes and idyllic settings along the Bregenzer Ache. Your journey culminates at Rohrspitz, a biodiverse nature reserve nestled between two arms of the Rhine. Here, amidst a sanctuary teeming with migratory birds and vibrant flora and fauna, you'll experience the serene beauty of this wilderness. Upon passing the Swiss customs station, you'll arrive in Rheineck before reaching St. Gallen, situated in the crossroads of Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Liechtenstein. Opt for a short train ride or bus transfer to the hilltop town of St. Gallen, where your modern and comfortable accommodation awaits at Hotel Einstein.
Nestled close to the old town, Hotel Einstein offers four-star luxury behind a classical facade. After settling in, indulge in a delectable dinner and unwind in the hotel's inviting ambiance. With its prime location, you'll have the perfect opportunity for an evening stroll through the nearby old town, soaking in the timeless charm of St. Gallen Cathedral and its historic monastery district.
Day 5: St. Gallen monastery district - Gottlieben | 23 or 28 mi. (37 or 44 km)
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of St. Gallen's history, from its medieval origins to its modern-day prosperity. Begin your day with a guided tour of the city's illustrious landmarks, including the towering monastery, cathedral, and the renowned abbey library, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the exquisite works of art by Anton Feuchtmayer as you explore the architectural wonders of this ancient city.
After the tour, your guide will lead you to a hillside residential area on the outskirts of St. Gallen, where your bikes await. Embark on an undulating route that winds its way down to the tranquil lakeshore, offering scenic vistas along the way. For a particularly hilly section, your guides offer a transfer, but adventurous cyclists can choose to pedal the distance for an extra challenge. As you approach the lakeside, you'll cycle along agricultural paths and quaint streets, soaking in the serene beauty of the landscape. Your journey culminates in Gottlieben, a charming village nestled along the Seerhein, the waterway connecting Lake Constance and Untersee. Explore the picturesque streets adorned with 17th-century half-timbered houses, and marvel at the historic Bishop's Castle, a true highlight of the area. Retreat to the historic Hotel Die Krone, a lovingly restored 300-year-old building that exudes charm and character. Indulge in a delightful dinner at the hotel restaurant, where you'll savor delicious cuisine amidst a cozy ambiance. With its idyllic location on the banks of the Seerhein, Hotel Die Krone offers a romantic retreat, perfect for experiencing unforgettable sunsets over Lake Constance. Each room boasts a unique historical floor plan, adding to the hotel's distinctive charm and allure.
Day 6: Reichenau - Stein am Rhein | 23 mi. (36 km)
Embark on a journey to discover the enchanting island of Reichenau, renowned for its fertile soil and ancient Romanesque churches. Board a boat to reach this verdant paradise, where you'll explore lush gardens and visit historic monasteries steeped in religious and horticultural significance. Delve into the legacy of German abbot Walahfrid, a theologian, scholar, and masterful gardener who once resided in Reichenau, leaving behind a renowned herb garden that continues to thrive to this day. After your exploration of Reichenau, sail back across the tranquil waters of the Untersee to Allensbach, a village renowned for its prestigious opinion research institute. From here, embark on a scenic cycling route through woodland paths, offering breathtaking views of the lake below. Descend to the lakeshore and continue your journey to Stein am Rhein, a Swiss town renowned for its picturesque half-timbered houses adorned with vibrant frescoes. Lose yourself in the timeless beauty of this charming locale, reminiscent of a postcard-perfect scene. Conclude your day with a memorable dinner at the hotel restaurant, savoring delicious cuisine as you reflect on your adventures along the shores of Lake Constance. Retreat to the comfort of Hotel Porto Sofie in Gottlieben, where you'll enjoy a restful night's sleep, surrounded by the tranquil ambiance of this idyllic lakeside setting.
Day 7: Gottlieben - Überlingen | 13 mi. (22 km)
As your journey around Lake Constance draws to a close, embark on your final cycling adventure, tracing the scenic shores back to Constance. Pedal along a beautiful bike path that winds its way through the historic council city, where the famous Council of Constance convened from 1414 to 1418, leaving an indelible mark on medieval history. Explore the city's rich heritage on a guided tour, immersing yourself in its storied past and architectural treasures. Continuing your journey, cycle through elegant residential neighborhoods towards the tranquil southern banks of Lake Überlingen. Follow a serene and picturesque bike path that leads you to the charming town of Wallhausen, where you'll find a small port awaiting your arrival. Board a ferry bound for Überlingen, offering a delightful opportunity to savor the stunning lake views one last time.
In 2020, the ferry is scheduled to depart daily at 1:42 pm, allowing you to plan your onward travel accordingly. For returning guests, a convenient transfer will be provided to transport you back to the Parkhotel St. Leonhard, where you can reminisce about your Lake Constance adventure. Alternatively, if you're departing from Constance, arrangements can be made for a transfer to the train station, ensuring a seamless conclusion to your unforgettable journey around this picturesque lake.
