Rhine Valley Bike & Barge

On arrival in Koblenz, make your way to the dock to board the MS Olympia - embarkation is from 4pm. Located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers, Koblenz has been an important defence centre for the region over its more than 2000 year history. Its impressive fortifications are still in good condition today and it’s worth exploring these, as well as the old town with its ancient churches and winding streets.

In the morning you begin cycling to Boppard. Enjoy the panoramic view of the unforgettable Upper Middle Rhine Valley (or Rhine Gorge) a UNESCO World Heritage site. Cycle alongside the river, surrounded by vineyards and castle ruins. + 40m/131ft - 38m/124ft

From Boppard, you cycle along the Rhine to Oberwesel. On this short stage you'll pass by many scenic viewpoints from where you can enjoy the varied landscape. From the banks of the river, the many fortresses and the legendary Loreley cliff offer a picturesque backdrop all along the way. + 139m/456ft, - 72m/236ft

The cycle today takes you from Oberwesel past slate cliffs and through dense forests to sights including the Pfalzgrafenstein Castle near Kaub and the Niederwald Monument. Today's destination is the wine town of Bingen, and Rudesheim across the river. Here we suggest that you visit the world-famous Drosselgasse. + 70m/229ft, -62m/203ft

On this stretch, the Rhine River again shows all of its beauty. Ride past Eltville am Rhein, where the Electoral Castle is well worth a visit. Continue to Mainz, home to numerous impressive buildings. You may want to visit St Martin's Cathedral, one of the proud imperial cathedrals in Germany, or the Electoral Palace. Lined with beautiful half-timbered buildings and wine taverns, pretty narrow lanes and marvellous squares like the Augustinerstraße and the Kirschgarten Square, a stroll through the Old Town is highly recommended. + 45m/147ft, - 40m/131ft

A short stage allowing lots of time to take it slowly and absorb the beautiful views. Directly alongside the Rhine, you cycle on the well-paved Rhine Cycle Route to Nierstein. With almost 1.000 hectares of vineyard surface area, Nierstein is the biggest wine-growing municipality on the Rhine. You may also want to visit the historic Old Town with its medieval market square and the noble houses. In the afternoon, enjoy the boat tour from Nierstein to Worms. + 16m/52ft, -15m/49ft

Today's cycle begins from Worms, the city of the Nibelungs. Following the banks of the Rhine, you will have again the possibility to fall for the charms of the vineyards and to enjoy the scenery along the river. Coming from the south, you cycle towards Nierstein, also referred to as the Riesling City. In the evening, cruise to Mainz for your last night on board. 37m/121ft, -40m/131ft