Internationale groepsreis Highlights of Lake Constance by Bike

After arriving at your hotel, a historic coaching inn, in the centre of Bregenz where you can explore the ancient cobbled streets of the old town.

Today you'll cycle west along Lake Constance's southern shore before crossing the mighty Rhine delta that straddles the border between Austria and Switzerland. It's an area of great natural beauty and a refuge for wildlife - be sure to keep your eyes peeled for kingfishers in the reeds. Your final stretch takes you around the lake to historic Arbon where you'll find pretty half-timbered houses and a 16th century castle.

There are two routes today - if opting for the shorter route you can take the train to Guettingen this morning. Otherwise, you'll pedal clockwise around the lake and pass waterfront villages affording lots of panoramic sun terraces for coffee stops and lunch. In the afternoon, you coast effortlessly between sleepy harbours before arriving in medieval Stein am Rhein. 

After freewheeling east this morning, you'll soon cross the border to enter Germany. In the Hornstaad Nature Reserve you may spot cormorant and red-crested pochard. Cycling along the Gnadensee you'll soon reach the UNESCO Heritage Site of Klosterinsel Reichenau, the first populated area on Lake Constance and home to an impressive 8th century Benedictine abbey. It's then on to the unofficial regional capital, Konstanz. 

Today you can spend the day exploring the narrow streets of Konstanz: visit the Altstadt, Munster and the lively centre crammed with quirky shops and museums. Alternatively, you can hop on a boat (payable locally) to visit Mainau Island's palace and landscaped rose gardens. If you take your bike, you can pedal back at leisure along traffic-free lakeside cycle paths. 

Pedal through oak forest this morning to catch the 15-minute ferry ride (included) to fairytale Meersburg - built on a steep vineyard right by the lake, it boasts twin castles and many museums. It's a perfect place to stop for lunch! Then, pedalling south, it's a gentle cycle into Friedrichshafen. 

Today you head to lovely Lindau, a stunning island village surrounded by cobalt blue waters with long-distance views of razor-edged peaks across the lake. En route you cycle past the pretty village of Langenargen and through peaceful vineyards and cherry orchards. After lunching in an idyllic setting near the lake, a final push alongside the lake takes you back down to Bregenz. Time permitting, you could take the cable car up Pfander mountain (1,064m), for a fantastic vista of your entire route, giving you a real sense of achievement! 

The tour ends in Bregenz after breakfast.