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Switzerland, Austria, Germany

River Rhine Cycle – Oberalp Pass to Basel

April, May, June, July, Aug, Sept, Oct£1399 pp

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Dates may vary in price due to demand throughout the season and are subject to changes from time to time. We recommend booking your trip well in advance to secure the best pricing available for your preferred dates.

If you don't see a date suitable, please call on +44 (0)17683 71289 to organise a custom date.

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SUMMARY

River Rhine Cycle – Oberalp Pass to Basel

No. of People: 1

PAYMENT

PAY TODAY £

TOTAL £999

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About this Adventure

Cycle from the source of the River Rhine in the high Alps to the Swiss city of Basel. Cycle alongside vineyards, lakes, and medieval castles as you follow the Rhine through small alpine villages and eventually larger towns as you approach Basel. The route is almost entirely flat after the descent from the Oberalp Pass, sticking mostly to cycle paths and quiet roads, this route is perfect for leisure cyclists.

 

Other versions available

Quick Facts

  • 8 days of self-guided cycling
  • 8 nights’ accommodation
  • 267-mile (430km) trip
  • Average daily distance 48 miles (77km)
  • Admire the changing landscapes as you cycle from high alpine passes to the magnificent Lake Constance
  • Ride through Switzerland, Austria, and Germany
  • 24hr telephone support during your cycle ride
  • GPX files and guide book provided

About & Details

The source of the River Rhine is Lake Tuma, near the Oberalp Pass in the high Alps of Switzerland. This trip follows the river from its source in the Alps to the Swiss city of Basel. Cycle from the summit of the Oberalp Pass through deep gorges and picturesque alpine villages before reaching the magnificent Lake Constance. Cycling is a great way to explore this region, passing through three different countries, it allows you to really take your time and experience the local culture. Sample the fine local delicacies at farms and vineyards, and discover some amazing wines and cheeses along the way.  We provide you with GPX files, a guidebook and take all the stress out of organising a cycling holiday, you just turn up and ride! This trip follows the upper section of the Rhine, we also offer trips along the full length of the river as it continues down through France into the Mediterranean.

Inclusions

  • 8 nights’ accommodation in good quality B&Bs or hotels with ensuite or private bathroom and breakfast
  • Fully planned out route with directions and daily distances
  • Preparation advice on fitness/gear before your ride
  • Expert local knowledge and 24 hour emergency assistance during your trip
Exclusions
  • Lunches and evening meals
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Personal insurance (for cancellation, accident, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of or damage to baggage and personal effects)
  • Bike and bike equipment. Please contact us for bike hire details
  • Bus transfer from Andermatt up the Furka Pass
  • Ferry from Meersberg to Konstanz
  • Transport to Andermatt from Basel.

Optional Extras

  • Single Room Supplement £90 per person per night (subject to availability)
  • Extra night in Andermatt prior to start (twin room, needs 2 people) £95 per person
  • Extra night in Andermatt prior to start (single room) £180 per person
  • Extra night in Basel at end of event (twin room, needs 2 people) £95 per person
  • Extra night in Basel at end of event (single room) £180 per person

Please select from Optional Extras at checkout.

Rest days

If you would like a rest day (or more!) included in your itinerary please get in touch with our team.

Supported trip

If you would like to organise a group event with van support please contact our team for availability.

Included in a supported trip:

  • Mechanical assistance
  • Navigation support
  • Snacks and drinks provided
  • Group first aid kit

Need a guide?

If you would like a guide to lead the way, then we are happy to help and can provide a qualified cycle leader, also trained in first aid.  Having a guide with you will not only take the stress out of navigation, but can also be a great asset in providing an insight into all things cycling.

Departures

We run the River Rhine Cycle – Oberalp Pass to Basel as a self-guided or fully supported event.

To book as a self-guided trip simply select the date in the calendar and follow the booking procedure.  You will then receive an automated confirmation and full details will follow from our office in due course.

If you would like to book as a fully supported trip and/or cycle leader please contact our team.

 

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Itinerary

  • Day 1 - Arrive in Andermatt

    Arrival at your accommodation and relax for the evening.

  • Day 2 - Oberalp Pass to Ilanz

    Start the day by catching the bus to the top of the Oberalp Pass, surrounded by high alpine peaks and magnificent mountain scenery. Cycle down the pass through Surselva, passing a string of Alpine villages. See the Rhine go from a small stream to a fast-flowing river as you cycle along and end the day.

    Distance – 32 miles (51km) Climb – 675 feet (205m)

  • Day 3 - Ilanz to Chur

    Leaving Ilanz and climb steadily towards the village of Versam and descend to a superb vantage point high above the gorge of Ruinaulta. Cycling on to cross the river at Tamins before reaching the medieval city of Chur.

    Distance – 22 miles (35km) Climb – 1,700 feet (518m)

  • Day 4 - Chur to Buchs

    Keeping the river close, climb gently to the Maienfeld Hills; this area of vineyards and alpine meadows is often called “Heidiland”, the setting for the children’s novel Heidi. Cycle along the Rhine through a deep valley, with high mountains to the east and west. Passing through Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein, and on to the busy town of Buchs. Try the flat cakes, a local speciality.

    Distance – 30 miles (48km) Climb – 950feet (290m)

  • Day 5 - Buchs to Bregenz

    Leaving the high mountains behind continue following the Rhine to the Austrian border and the town of St Margretten. Cycling on to the Rheindelta, where the river meets Bodensee (Lake Constance) and carry on to the lakeside resort of Bregenz.

    Distance – 34 miles (55km) Climb 100 feet (30m) 

  • Day 6 - Bregenz to Konstanz

    Cycling around the north side of the lake, following the lake shore. Pass through several resort towns and villages, including the picturesque medieval port of Lindau and small city of Friedrichshafen. Upon reaching Meersburg, take the ferry across Bodensee to the town of Konstanz.

    Distance – 35 miles (56km) Climb – 700 feet (214m)

  • Day 7 - Konstanz to Schaffhausen

    Start by following the Untersee arm of Bodensee. Crossing the river at the charming walled town of Stein am Rhein. Cycling through forested hills and on to the Swiss city of Schaffhausen. Today can be taken as a rest day with the option of hopping on a ferry running between Konstanz and Schaffhausen.

    Distance – 35 miles (56km) Climb – 1,275 feet (389m)

  • Day 8 - Schaffhausen to Waldshut

    Following the Swiss side of the Rhine, passing continental Europe’s largest waterfall and continue cycling along the river through a range of wooded hills. Riding mostly along a small plateau overlooking the river, occasionally dropping down to the riverbank before reaching the town of Waldshut.

    Distance – 37 miles (60km) Climb – 1,650 feet (502m)

  • Day 9 - Waldshut to Basel

    The final day starts by following the north bank of the Rhine, passing through a number of attractive medieval towns before cycling back into Switzerland at Bad Sackingen. Reach the historic city of Basel, and the end of your epic trip!

    Distance – 42 miles (68km) Climb – 1125 feet (343m)

Notes:

This is a typical itinerary and a guide only. It can be subject to change dependent upon viability, course members’ fitness, and weather conditions or for any other reason. Mileage is approximate.

The Route
Reviews

Find some of the reviews our wonderful customers have left for us below, or read them all here!

Heather Parr
3 months ago

Maximum Adventure exceeded expectations, planning a trip for me last minute and off season through the glorious Lake District. The hotels were top rate, as was the food and my daily gluten free sandwich. Nathalie got the route guide sent to me in a couple of days and the baggage service was impeccable. It was the only tour guide company that responded immediately to my last minute request. Looking forward to more adventures with your company!!!

Chris Evans
3 months ago

David and I walked the Speyside Way in September 2023 and very much enjoyed the adventure. Maximum Adventure Ltd organised our nightly accommodation and uplifting of our luggage in a seamless manner, which made the whole trip so easy with no stress. This is the second time that I have personally used Maximum Adventures Ltd and I would recommend them to others as they offer a friendly and efficient service.

Göte Fredriksson
4 months ago

We realy appreciated the tour we did on Hadrians Wall path in May.Beautiful scenery, decent weather, god arrangements including lodging, transport, bagagehandling etc. We came well prepared . In this preparation Maximum adventures gave us great support, as we are coming from abroad with no knowledge of conditions on the path. We had great BnBs and could concentrate on de daily walks that gave us great pleasure.Thank you England and Hadrians Wall path for your friendly reception and well mantained walking path.Thank you Maximum Adventures for your good service.We would love to come back in the future.

Jerry Kashinski
4 months ago

Maximum Adventure did a great job for us. With less than a month's notice, it set up an itinerary, lodging and luggage porterage for a walk from Carlisle to Newcastle, England along Hadrian's Wall. The lodging was fantastic, as was the itinerary and support during the walk. We'd definitely use Maximum Adventure again and would recommend them without reservation!

Fiona Reilly
5 months ago

I was part of a climb on 23/09, didn't think I would make ut, but I did. The descent was a different story.. I got jelly legs and lost my confidence. If it wasn't for James, my Sherpa would never have made it. Can't thank him enough, Will, met you briefly.Both of them were very knowledgeable, we had the most amazing views at the summit...the pain is still worth it and

Tom Graham
5 months ago

I walked the West Highland Way with my dad and brother. The organisation was excellent by Samantha. Itinerary and instructions were clear and all the bookings and luggage transfers went smoothly. As a result we were able to ensure the fantastic walk and not worry about anything. I would happily recommend Maximum Adventure to others.

Sarah Bracken
5 months ago

Absolutely brilliant guide - knowledgeable, interesting and humorous in addition to looking after our safety so well - making sure we ate and suggesting when to layer up! Would highly recommend!

Diana Straub
6 months ago

We just got home from our 8-days Hadrian's Wall hike and we just loved it!Everything was perfectly organized!We had great B&Bs and hotels with very friendly, welcoming and helpful staff. Our favorite was the Dacre House with Clare. But then again, all were great!The luggage was always at the day's destination, no matter how early we got to the accommodation.The description of how to get to the accommodations were clear and precise.The road map and the guide book were waiting for us as we got to the first B&B and were very helpful and interestingThanks, Maximum Adventure!

Kristin Hentschel
6 months ago

Praise for the West Highland Hike and the Maximum Adventure planners, esp. our planner Samantha. Great experience in every regard.

Simon Bradish
6 months ago

Booked for the 3 UK Peaks adventure, it was organised perfectly and everything when to plan. Accommodation was good, transport excellent, our guide (Patrick) brilliant, so cannot fault the trip and adventure. I personally expected too much from myself and was unable to fully summit as this adventure is not for beginners, I climbed Kilimanjaro in 2003 when I was 42 and twenty years later, although relatively fit, my endurance didn't last. So I did a half summit for Ben Nevis & Scafell, thanks to Patrick for letting go back down on my own, it was brilliant. With Snowdon, a half summit is tricky as you can't descend the way you go up, so I decided to do some hiking in the area while the rest of the group did the climb. I took a chance and went to the ticket office and managed to get a single return ticket up to the summit of Snowdon at 9am which returned down by 11.30am. I was hoping to see my group on top and spring a surprise but the weather was terrible. I highly recommend the trip but make sure you are fit enough otherwise as there is an emphasis on time, so a slow walk up is going to slow everyone down and really delay the trip. Have Fun, Simon Bradish

Charity Information

How to take part for Charity

To do this challenge for a charity there is a non-refundable registration fee, payable to Maximum Adventure at the time of booking. You can then choose between the two different options below.

Self-Funding

Pay a registration fee at the time of booking then the balance due 10-weeks before departure. With the self-funding option, you personally cover the full cost of the challenge. This option means that there is no minimum sponsorship target due, but we encourage you to raise as much money as you can for the charity.

Minimum Sponsorship Pledge

Pay a registration fee at the time of booking and confirm with your charity their minimum fundraising requirements for the balance. This will typically be double the cost of the adventure, less the registration fee. With the minimum sponsorship pledge option, you must submit 80% of your fundraising target to the charity 10 weeks before the departure date.

More Information

For more details of how fundraising works please read our step by step guide here or contact us for help.

Maximum Adventure work with lots of charities to offer our events as fundraising opportunities.  You can find our Charity Events from the ‘Menu’ in the corner of your screen or from our homepage.  If your chosen charity is not listed, please contact us and we will be happy to approach them on your behalf.

Why book with us

We know you have a choice of companies providing trips for your next adventures. Here are some of the reasons you should choose to travel with Maximum Adventure:

  • We are an established adventure travel business
  • We have been trading since 2002
  • We are financially protected in accordance with the 1992 travel regulation
  • Knowledgeable and available office staff
  • Qualified leaders and guides with ascents ranging from Ben Nevis to Mount Everest
  • All activities are risk assessed
  • We will provide you with the best service available
  • We are aware this is your holiday/your challenge and will do our best to make it an enjoyable and rewarding experience
  • We have many repeat clients stretching back over a number of years
20+ years adventure organisation experience
Full liability & financial protection
Leading provider of high quality adventure challenges
Great team of staff to support you

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