Three Lakes Cycle

Located on the banks of Lake Constance (Bodensee in German), the compact university town is an ideal starting point for your trip. On arrival make your way to the joining hotel where you will receive your route notes and maps. You can either collect your bike from our supplier which includes a fitting or (if requested) your bike can be delivered to the hotel, however no fitting provided. In the afternoon you can visit Mainau island or stroll through the old town of Constance. The aquariums in the Sea Life Centre and the Archaeological Museum are also recommended.

Following the side of Lake Constance, you pedal to Stein am Rhein with its frescoed, medieval houses. Switching several times between Germany and Switzerland you reach the canton's capital, Schaffhausen. The town, whose citizens competed with each other in building gables on their houses, is overlooked by Munot fort.

After breakfast, it's a short cycle to the Rhine Falls, one of Europe's biggest waterfalls. You can get a boat (ticket included) right up close to the mighty roar of the water. Next, you follow the Glatt Valley, which takes you to Zurich, Switzerland's fascinating, cosmopolitan city. It unites tradition with modernity and its unspoiled historic quarter is very inviting, thanks to the many cafes and bars here. Note: From Zurich-Kloten Airport, you can shorten the cycle day by taking the S-Bahn (not included) from Rümlang station

Today you cycle along the northern bank of Lake Zurich on the so-called 'golden coast' to Rapperswil. Take a break here and go up to the old castle, from where you'll have lovely views of Lake Zurich and the countryside. From Rapperswil, you cross the lake via the dam and then cycle along the opposite bank a little further to the small town of Lachen.

The Linth Canal, an artificial waterway between Lake Zurich and Walensee lake, was built at the beginning of the 19th century to prevent flooding from the Linth and its tributaries. In Weesen you board a boat (ticket included) which takes you to Walenstadt. The Churfirsten peaks tower high above the impressive Walensee, which is perfect for swimming. After only a few kilometres you reach the valley of the Alpine Rhine, which you continue to follow to the Principality of Liechtenstein, where you will spend the night today.

After cycling along the Rhine the next stage will be by cog railway up to Gais, which lies in Appenzell. On your way to St. Gallen you’ll be accompanied by the sound of bells from cows grazing in beautiful alpine pastures. The library of the collegiate church in St Gallen is one of the most important historical libraries in the world. Here, among the 160.000 books in the library, the oldest German book can be found.

Enjoy the downhill stretch to Lake Constance as you make your way towards Arbon. Following the banks of the lake almost all the way, the trail leads you through apple orchards and the small towns of Arbon and Romanshorn back to Constance. This stretch is flat and easy to cycle, unless a strong westerly wind is blowing. You will frequently pass swimming spots where you can refresh yourself in the lovely cool waters of the lake.