Bike Tour through Franconia

Your bike tour through Franconia begins in Rothenburg, situated in the Tauber Valley. You find lean towers, flower-clad timber-frame houses and imposing ancient defence facilities. Rothenburg’s well-preserved historic centre, with its intricate alleys, is regarded as the archetypal medieval German town and is particularly popular with tourists. Pre-booked rental bikes are ready for you at the hotel.

The Tauber guides you today, until you cross a ridge of mountains comfortably along the old Gaubahn line. Then it's a great free-wheel down into the Main valley to Ochsenfurt. The town hall clock shows not only the time but also the phases of the moon. Make sure you don't end up in the Fool's House on your visit.

By bike is the best way to become acquainted with the romantic Main valley. The elegant town of Würzburg is perfect for a break. The all-enthroning castle was rebuilt with incredible attention to detail after being seriously damaged during the Second World War. Your route takes you on through vineyards to Gemünden. A little wine-tasting should not go amiss to let the evening come to a pleasant close.

You cycle along the banks of the Main today, first to Rothenfels, a small town with a castle worth a visit. Wertheim, today's destination amidst green wooded slopes, is situated where Main and Tauber meet. It is watched over by the ruins of old Steinburg castle. The trek up is worth it as at the top of the old walls you get a wonderful view of the countryside you've been cycling through.

Say goodbye to the Main and follow the Tauber upstream. Ancient grape varieties are being rediscovered in the vineyards by passionate winegrowers and brought back to life. You’ll reach the picturesque little town of Tauberbischofsheim, also known as the Fencing Town. The journey continues to Bad Mergentheim. The local castle, which was once a fortress, now houses the Museum of the Teutonic Order, which explores the history of the Order in great detail from the 12th century onwards.

The final stage takes you back to Rothenburg, mostly along the River Tauber. As you will have noticed on the day of your arrival, the town is brimming with historic buildings and sites. The Town Hall is particularly worth mentioning – it is one of the most beautiful in southern Germany. A stroll to the Plönlein, Rothenburg’s landmark, is also well worth it. The fork in the road, with the two towers of the old city wall, is one of the town’s most popular photo opportunities.

After breakfast, your bike tour through franconia ends. We are happy to extend your stay in Rothenburg ob der Tauber with an extra night.