Eifel, Moselle and Rhine: Aachen - Koblenz

It's worth arriving in Aachen early, as the cathedral city has a lot to offer. Aachen Cathedral—the first German building to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978—impresses with its unique architecture and history. A leisurely stroll through the old town also allows you to discover the historic town hall and the modern city museum. And a must for connoisseurs: the famous Aachen Printen, which are a real taste experience far beyond the Christmas season.

Leave the bustling city of Aachen behind and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature on the Vennbahn, one of the longest railway cycle paths in Europe. After just a few kilometers, the hustle and bustle of the city will be forgotten. Your route takes you back and forth across the border between Germany and Belgium, sometimes here, sometimes there. You will be accompanied by wide open landscapes and regional delicacies: whether hearty Döppekooche, crispy Belgian waffles, or golden fries – culinary delights are guaranteed. Refreshed and inspired, you will cycle on towards Monschau, a charming town that delights with its half-timbered houses and historic flair.

Today you will cycle through one of the most impressive natural landscapes in Central Europe – the High Fens. The high moorland landscape inspires with its unspoiled nature, quiet expanses, and magnificent views. From the narrow streets of Monschau, the gently ascending path leads through moors, heathland, and stream valleys to the idyllic Lake Bütgenbach – perfect for a short break. Full of new energy, you leave the lake shore behind and follow old railway lines through wooded hills and along quiet streams. Highlights of this stage include Lake Kronenburg and the Vulkaneifel, as well as the day's destination, the spa town of Gerolstein – picturesquely situated beneath the imposing Gerolstein Dolomites, it is the ideal end to an eventful stage.

The striking rock formation “Munterley” offers impressive views over Gerolstein and the Kyll Valley. In the morning, follow the Kyll Cycle Route through narrow valleys and picturesque villages such as Kyllburg and St. Thomas. In the Bitburg region, the brewery town of Bitburg awaits you with the “Bitte ein Bit” experience world – ideal for a lunch break.

Now you are spoiled for choice:
The shorter route takes you downhill through the idyllic Kyll Valley to the Moselle and on to Trier, the city of the Romans – where numerous buildings are waiting to be discovered.
If you opt for the longer route, follow the Nims, Prüm, and Sauer cycle paths through a landscape shaped by rivers to the Moselle. The last few kilometers take you to Germany's oldest city, Trier. 

Today you will begin exploring the Moselle: the ruins of Villa Rustica, numerous vineyard-covered wineries, and Neumagen-Dhron, Germany's oldest wine-growing village, are just a few of the highlights of today's stage along the Moselle. Countless cafes, wine taverns, and wine bars invite you to take a leisurely break before continuing on to Bernkastel-Kues. There you can enjoy the historic market square, the heart of the town. Centuries-old half-timbered houses, the Renaissance town hall, and the almost legendary Spitzhäuschen are waiting to be discovered.

Continuing along the banks of the Moselle, you cycle leisurely through the wine villages of Zeltingen and Traben-Trarbach, where you can admire the impressive Art Nouveau and Belle Époque architecture. After a short break, your route takes you along the right and left banks of the Moselle to Enkirch, known for its charming half-timbered architecture. At Bullay, marvel at the unique two-story steel bridge for rail and road traffic. Continue on to the small but romantic town of Beilstein, often referred to as “Rothenburg on the Moselle,” with its narrow streets and picturesque market square. At the end of the day, you will reach your destination, Treis-Karden.

Do you still have energy and strength reserves? Then reward yourself with a worthwhile detour (+ approx. 4 km) to the medieval Eltz Castle, one of the most beautiful and best-preserved castles in Germany. Afterwards, cycle through the historic wine village of Kobern-Gondorf and on through picturesque Winningen, one of the most beautiful villages in Germany. Follow the slowly widening Moselle valley towards the mouth of the Rhine. At the Deutsches Eck, you can enjoy an impressive view of the Rhine valley.
In the late afternoon, you return your rented bikes and can collect your luggage at our partner hotel in Koblenz. 
Would you like to explore the sights of Koblenz in more detail?
Then we recommend booking an extra night at the end of your cycling tour.