From the Old World charm of Prague and the Czech Republic, our journey will include the UNESCO World Heritage site of Cesky-Krumlov and idyllic countryside of southern Bohemia; in Austria, we’ll follow the Danube River, where you can choose between gentle bike paths or venture into the nearby moderate hills where vineyards tempt. Our trip finishes in Vienna, one of Europe’s most important artistic centers. The 11 day tour includes two nights in Prague, with local guided walks at the beginning of the tour and two nights in Vienna at the end of the trip, each with local expert guided walks.
Prague, Czech Republic
Day 1+2
Tabor, Czechia
Day 3
Cesky-Krumlov
Day 4+5
Maria Taferl
Day 6
Weissenkirchen
Day 7+8
Vienna, Austria
Day 9+10+11
| Any start date between April 1 and October 31 |
|---|
Total Days
Arrive/Depart
Activity LevelModerate: 20-40+ miles daily.
TerrainCzech Republic has some hills; the Danube paths are mostly level along the river.
CostClassic Accommodation: US $3,750
Single Supplement: US $1,000
Luxe Accommodation: US $4,910
Single Supplement: US $1,250
Bike Rentals
Hybrid Bikes: US $500
Racing Bikes: US $600
E-Bikes: US $800
E-bikes are generally available but are on an ‘on request basis ‘ and will be confirmed on receipt of your booking registration. E-bikes provided are the best rentals available in the region. Our regular fleet of hybrid and race bikes are fun to ride and light and fast, but if having an e-bike will make your trip, we’ll do our best to provide. E-bike rentals are non-refundable.
| Destination | Austria, Czech Republic |
|---|---|
| Level | Moderate |
Getting There
The trip begins in Prague, Czech Republic, and ends in Vienna, Austria. We suggest that you fly into Prague’s Ruzyne Airport. You can return to Prague after the trip ends or fly out of Vienna. Consider our extensions in Prague and Vienna as both of these cities are worth spending additional time in.
Prague
Explore Prague with our City Guide, full of recommended sites, and a list of restaurants to choose between. Next day, a local guide will meet you at your hotel and take you for a 1/2 day guided walking tour. Prague is certainly one of the most beautiful cities in the world and a great to begin your trip.
Tabor
You will start with a quick train trip to Tabor. We suggest the 9:05 train that arrives in Tabor at 10:55. Your bikes will be waiting at the hotel. You will have various distance options as you explore the countryside here. Tabor is a Hussite village with Renaissance buildings and a beautiful historic center. If time permits, visit a labyrinthe of tunnels dating from the 15th century, used by defenders of the town. The Hotel Nautilus is a 4-star boutique hotel in the historical center.
Ride Distance: 25 up to 68 km, elevation gain up to 859 m.*
Cesky-Krumlov
You have the option to cycle all the way from Tabor to Cesky-Krumlov, or for those prefering a more moderate day, transfer first to Cesky-Budejovice, which has a fascinating center. Arrive to Cesky-Krumlov, the most exquisite town in the Czech Republic. Next day, ride south to Lake Lipno in Sumava National Park returning along the Vltava River. Back in Cesky-Krumlov, we have included a walking tour with a local historian including a visit to the castle of Krumlov Hrad. There are terrific restaurants to choose between here- we’ll share our favourites with you.
Ride Distance D4: 30 up to 95 km, elevation gain 360 up to 959 m.*
Ride Distance D5: 36 km, elevation gain 567 m or 42 km, gain 526 m.*
Marbach an der Donau
We will arrange a transfer from Cesky-Krumlov to Enns, the oldest city in Austria and situated on the Danube. From here, cycle downstream through the fertile Machland, crossing Europe’s oldest wooden bridge and the villages of Ardagger Markt, with its many museums and the pretty village of Grein. You’ll cross the Danube at Ybbs and at Marbach. Those wishing a longer ride, can challenge themselves with a loop to the village of Artstetten nearby.
Ride Distance: 77 km, elevation gain 841 m up to 114 km, gain 1200 m.*
Weissenkirchen/Durstein
Following the Danube east through the Wachau, a region of abbeys, churches and castles we’ll reach Melk Abbey, a magnificent Baroque building still used by Benedictine monks; the Classic trip stays at the Raffelsberger Hof, located in Weissenkirchen, and dates from 1574 and was renovated into a boutique hotel by the Anton family. The Luxe trip stays in Durnstein at the luxurious 4-star Hotel Richard Lowenherz.
Next day, our cycling route continues to Durnstein, with the romantically-situated ruins of Durnstein castle above town. England’s King Richard the Lionhearted was held hostage for a king’s ransom in the castle in the 12th cenutury. In Krems, visit the Weinstadt Museum, in a restored 13th century Dominican monastery, and for those interested in more wine knowledge (and tastings), the Winzer Krems, a prominent winery. The short option loops back to the hotel and the moderate ride continues on to Tulln, the ‘flower town’ on the Danube.
Ride Distance D7: 42 km, elevation gain 280 m or 62 km, gain 871 m.*
Ride Distance D8: 20 km, elevation gain 91 m or 38 km, gain 428 m.*
Vienna
Transfer to Krems for train connections into Vienna. We will arrange a guide to meet you and take you on walking tours on your second day in Vienna- there is so much to see, but having a local guide is the way to be sure not to miss anything. You will also have our City Guide to Vienna to provide historical information on recommendations for dining etc.
Onward travel.
*Distance and elevation gains may vary depending on hotels chosen for specific departure.
This 4-star hotel is a stand-out design hotel, with contemporary, hip décor. The breakfast is amazing (probably the best we’ve had in Czech) and the location, steps to the historical district and Charles bridge make it convenient.
This 4-star boutique hotel was renovated from a former townhouse and is located on the central plaza of Tabor, with comfortable rooms and an exquisite restaurant. Frommers notes, "Easily the most stylish and comfortable hotel in town."
This hotel is one of the highest-rated by guests in CK; this charming family owned hotel is in a quiet location in the historical center of town. Frommers notes, "As you gaze at the river and the castle on the opposite bank, you'll wonder why anyone would choose to stay elsewhere." If you prefer to stay at Hotel Zlaty Andel, this is an option, but its drawbacks are that it is on the main square and noise can be an issue.
This family-owned business hotel offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside. Its restaurant serves homemade cuisine along with local wines. All rooms are spacious and equipped with quality wooden furniture.
Built in 1574, this property was renovated by the Anton family and now is a treasure of antiques. With just 15 rooms, it is intimate and boasts a location overlooking the Danube, and is walking distance to great restaurants in Weissenkirchen.
This 3-star hotel has a great design, is eco-conscious with friendly and helpful staff. It is 5-10 minute walk to the Westbanhof train station, which takes you quickly anywhere you need to get to.
This NY Times recommended 4-star hotel is unique with contemporary design and luxurious amenities. Wenceslas Square, Municipal Hall, and Old Town Square are within walking distance.
The Grand Hotel Bohemia is also an option at the Luxe level (no sur-charge).
This 4-star boutique hotel was renovated from a former townhouse and is located on the central plaza of Tabor, with comfortable rooms and an exquisite restaurant. Frommers notes, "Easily the most stylish and comfortable hotel in town."
We have stayed in every hotel in CK and this is our favourite 4-star hotel. It's got a fabulous location and the superior rooms are comfortable and the service is excellent. The restaurant here, Le Jardin is one of the best in the city.
This 4-star hotel is located in the village of Maria Taferl, with views of the Danube. The restaurant here is excellent and there is a pool and spa facilities. Panorama Room booked when available.
This 4-star hotel located in Durnstein on the banks of the Danube has large guest rooms, and a lovely, heated swimming pool and beautiful cloister gardens. “The ambiance is one of a dignified hunting lodge, with heavy furniture, and trophies on the walls. The bedrooms are pleasantly spacious, modern in their décor, and comfortably appointed.” (Karen Brown Guides)
As you can see by our hotel choices, we have a soft spot for design hotels, where light contemporary replaces heavy traditionalism. The Beletage demonstrates this handsomely with its take on creating a special place for guests.
Tour Reviews
“We had the best trip ever- loved every minute”
“All in all, we had a terrific time and we sure appreciated the itinerary and accommodations. The bikes were simply fantastic, and since I have never ridden a bike like that before, the ones at home are looking pretty poor. They were a good experience, especially for me, who has trouble keeping up with (my husband) George! Our Area Manager was wonderful and incredibly helpful and on top of what we were doing. He was also really encouraging. A good rep for your company.”
“We have a 13 year history with Randonnee due to high quality service, great organization of trips and excellent bicycles. Beautiful countries. Very good bike routes and trails with easy cycling along the Danube. Walking tours of Prague and Vienna provided so much historical information and both guides were excellent! Great places to stay – very unique accommodations. Our Area Manager gave us lots of time and information.”
“This is our 3rd trip with your company, and you are great. We recommended you to and brought friends with us, and they loved it too. Beautiful area. Great local support.”
“It was a wonderful trip. Your company took care of everything and was available when we needed you. The bikes were very comfortable, high quality and well maintained. Our Travel Advisor and Area Manager were both delightful and very helpful. Randonnee was a pleasure to work with and we’ll definitely recommend and book again.”
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