Bavarian Castles and Tyrol Valleys Tour
- From 869 € / pers.
- 7 days / 6 nights
- From 21/5 to 15/10
- Departure : all days
- Level : average
- Electric bike available
- Luggage transport incl.
Highlights
- Bavarian landscapes and villages straight out of a fairy tale
- The extravagant castles of Ludwig II: Neuschwanstein, Hohenschwangau and Linderhof
- The green Alpine valleys and lakes of Tyrol
- A route on quiet paths and roads, close to nature
- An itinerary in a mountainous environment but without steep slopes
Highlights :
- Bavarian landscapes and villages straight out of a fairy tale
- The extravagant castles of Ludwig II: Neuschwanstein, Hohenschwangau and Linderhof
- The green Alpine valleys and lakes of Tyrol
- A route on quiet paths and roads, close to nature
- A cycling journey in a mountainous environment but without steep slopes
From 869 € / pers.
- 7 days / 6 nights
- From May 21st to October 15th
- Departures : any day
- Level : intermediate
- Electric bike available
- Luggage transport included
BAVARIA AND TYROL
Bavaria and Tyrol have both gradually become favoured regions within their respective countries: this is where nature is at its most beautiful, traditions are most vibrant, and the well-preserved village architecture immerses visitors in a carefully cultivated nostalgia for the past. Fully aware of these distinctive characteristics that are a source of pride, local inhabitants often identify more readily as Bavarians or Tyroleans than as Germans or Austrians. These regions are, in many ways, true countries within a country.
In terms of nature, the vivid green of the meadows stretching as far as the eye can see, with the Alpine peaks as a backdrop, creates a truly enchanting setting. Dense fir forests — resilient to the region’s harsh winters — crystal-clear lakes, and the onion domes of Baroque church towers rising above the horizon complete the picture. At almost every moment, one could easily believe that this is where the word “idyllic” was invented!
It therefore comes as no surprise that the region also became a favoured retreat for monarchs: it was here that King Ludwig II of Bavaria decided to build his fantastical castles at the end of the 19th century, including the famous Neuschwanstein Castle, which inspired Sleeping Beauty’s castle. This intense aristocratic activity contributed to the region’s cultural effervescence, still evident today in the richness of its village architecture. Traditions have remained largely intact and, in summer, you may be lucky enough to attend a local village festival, where residents dress in their finest dirndls and lederhosen, ready to launch into lively dances after downing yet another one-litre stein of beer (apparently it’s good — so why not!).
All of this has made Bavaria and Tyrol major tourist destinations — in fact, they are the most visited regions in their respective countries. Needless to say, in summer some places and roads can become rather busy. Cycling fortunately offers the great advantage of often having the countryside to yourself, travelling along countless paths and small roads closed to traffic. It is undoubtedly one of the best ways to discover this region, where every view is a delight.
YOUR ITINERARY
Starting from Füssen — a charming medieval town easily accessible by train — this itinerary forms a 5-day loop. On the first day, the route gradually climbs into the Alpine pastures. The following day, you take a cable car to gain altitude effortlessly, allowing you to explore a sublime Alpine environment before descending through deep valleys surrounded by towering mountains and gradually returning to lower elevations. In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, take the day to reach the summit of the Zugspitze (nearly 3,000 m high — Germany’s highest peak!) by cog railway, then continue with a magnificent hike through the Partnach Gorge.
You then return to your bikes for the final two days, cycling through dense forests and summer pastures back to Füssen. Along the way, you will discover Lake Plansee, Linderhof Palace, Ettal Abbey, the many painted façades of the village of Oberammergau, and the truly surprising Wies Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
We also strongly recommend adding an extra day in Füssen, allowing you to visit Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau castles at a relaxed pace, or to enjoy one or two memorable hikes.
Gute Reise!
DAY-BY-DAY PROGRAMME
Day 1: Arrival in Füssen
Füssen is undoubtedly one of Bavaria’s most beautiful small towns, idyllically nestled between a lovely lake and the first foothills of the Alps. Its medieval streets with painted façades, elegant Baroque houses, wrought-iron hanging signs, the peal of church bells and retro-style cafés invite you to step back in time. Located just a few kilometres from the Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau castles, it has also become a major tourist destination. Its pedestrianised town centre is all the livelier for it — almost as if you were still in the Middle Ages!
NB: Visiting King Ludwig II’s castles takes several hours, so it is best to plan an additional night in Füssen at the end of your stay.
Day 2: Füssen – Reutte – Ehrenberg Fortress – Ehrwald
39 km |
+490 m | ⏱︎ 2h56
Following the course of the turbulent River Lech, you leave the town and gradually gain altitude. After just a few kilometres, you cross the Austrian border and enter the Tyrol, a name that immediately evokes green pastures set within a bucolic mountain landscape — exactly what awaits you.
After passing through the charming town of Reutte, you leave the Lech Valley and enter a narrower Alpine valley. At the point where the valley narrows most, the ruined Ehrenberg Fortress stands guard atop a rocky outcrop. A short walk allows you to reach it and enjoy the superb views from the site. The route then continues through a valley flanked by increasingly steep mountains until you reach the village of Ehrwald, nestled at the foot of imposing mountain massifs.
🚲 Long option (59 km | Ascent: 710 m | ⏱︎ 4h18)
The first part of the route takes you past three rather picturesque lakes, although the initial climb is a little steeper. After the town of Pfronten, you enter the scenic Vils Valley before rejoining the standard route shortly after crossing the border.
Day 3: Ehrwald – Garmisch-Partenkirchen
63 km |
+590 m | ⏱︎ 4h34
A short climb awaits before reaching the cable car, which then lifts you nearly 400 m higher. You continue your journey at around 1,500 m altitude, where the vegetation becomes much sparser and the scenery truly magnificent. Just under 2 km further on, a 7 km return detour to Lake Seebensee is highly recommended. Nestled at 1,657 m amid sheer rocky cliffs, the lake is breathtaking. Only a few larches still grow at this altitude. From there, it is almost entirely downhill to your destination, nearly 1,000 m lower.
The track descends gently until it reaches the Leutasch Valley, where you cycle through meadows and forests surrounded by vertiginous mountain massifs.
You then cross back into Germany and reach the charming town of Mittenwald, famous for its beautifully painted historic façades. Goethe himself described the village as a “living picture book”.
You continue across picturesque Alpine pastures to reach the equally stunning Lake Geroldsee, before finally arriving in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, a town that hosted the 1936 Winter Olympic Games under Nazi Germany and still retains its enormous ski jumps.
Accommodation for 2 nights.
Day 4: Zugspitze summit + excursions around Garmisch-Partenkirchen
If the sky is clear, the highlight is undoubtedly the ascent of the Zugspitze, which at 2,962 m is Germany’s highest peak. A cog railway takes you almost to the summit. Back at the bottom, you will still have a good half-day to enjoy as you wish: a hike through the magnificent Partnach Gorge, an outing towards the summit known as Wank, a pleasant cycle ride through the Loisach Valley from Eschenlöhe (17 km, after taking the train there), or even a session on a summer toboggan run. You will be spoilt for choice. You will find all the details and practical information of those activities in the roadbook.
Day 5: Garmisch-Partenkirchen – Oberammergau
58 km |
+580 m | ⏱︎ 4h33
After wandering past traditional wooden barns set among photogenic pastures framed by high mountains, you ride up the wild Naidernach Valley to reach Lake Plansee, crossing the Austrian border along the way. After re-entering Germany, you arrive at Linderhof Palace, undoubtedly the most interesting of King Ludwig II’s castles. Set in a magnificent mountain landscape, it is above all the interior that impresses: a great admirer of Louis XIV, the Sun King, Ludwig II wanted his palace to evoke the opulence of Versailles. The result is an interior lavishly adorned with every imaginable decoration, reflecting the Bavarian king’s vivid imagination and passion.
A few kilometres further on, you visit the Ettal Abbey, where the richness of the paintings inside the dome bears witness to its former importance as a pilgrimage centre. You finally reach Oberammergau, a village famous for its many painted façades.
Day 6: Ettal – Füssen
50 km |
+360 m | ⏱︎ 3h34
Today’s ride takes you through a landscape alternating between forests, pastures and small rural villages. The highlight of the day will probably be the Wies Church, whose vast silhouette seems to rise out of nowhere. Nestled in a green setting, its 18th-century interior is even more impressive and earned the church its UNESCO listing as “the most perfect expression of Bavarian Rococo — exuberant, joyful and colourful”.
A few pastures further on, Lake Forggensee brightens the scenery in turn. With the Alpine ridges and Neuschwanstein Castle as a backdrop, it is hard to imagine a finer setting. By the end of the day, you reach Füssen once again — the loop is complete.
🚲 Long option (56 km | Ascent: 450 m | ⏱︎ 3h47)
The longer option does not include any additional highlights, but as the scenery remains just as enjoyable, it allows you to extend the pleasure one last time before the end of your journey.
Day 7: End of the trip
End of your Tyrolean–Bavarian adventure after breakfast. You may choose to add an extra night to visit Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau castles, or to enjoy further hiking in the surrounding mountains.
ACCOMMODATION
Whatever comfort category you choose, we favour authentic, human-scale accommodation that conveys comfort, friendliness and well-being. We also make every effort to ensure they are well located: easily accessible by bike and, whenever possible, close to amenities and points of interest.
AVAILABLE COMFORT CATEGORIES
2–3 ★ hotels or guesthouses
Simple yet welcoming accommodation, chosen for its hospitality and location.
Carefully selected 3 ★ hotels or equivalent B&Bs
A selection of addresses combining modern comfort and authenticity.
High-comfort 4 ★ hotels
Elegant accommodation combining refinement, comfort and high-end services.
Photos are provided as examples to illustrate the type of accommodation in each category.
Always included:
- Breakfast
- Private bathroom
- Secure bike storage
- Restaurant within walking distance
- Convenient location
CHOOSING YOUR BIKE
Whether you choose a rental bike or bring your own, it is essential to have a bike that is suited both to the route and to your personal needs.
RENTAL BIKES
We offer high-quality trekking bikes and/or electric bikes, fully equipped with all essential accessories. Equipment for children is also available.
Trekking bikes
Versatile bikes with at least 21 gears, making them ideal for tackling climbs without excessive effort.
Electric bikes (e-bikes)
Bikes equipped with a battery of at least 500 Wh. You can rely on a range of at least 70 kilometres with excellent riding comfort.
Child trailers
The route is also suitable for child bike trailers, which we also offer for hire.
Children’s bikes
For children who have not yet reached adult height, children’s bikes can be hired. Several sizes are available.
Tag-along bikes
If your child no longer fits in a trailer, a “tag-along” bike can be attached to the back of an adult bike.
Photos shown for information purposes only. Bikes subject to availability.
Included accessories:
- Smartphone holder (1 per bike)
- Waterproof rear pannier (1 per bike)
- Lock
- Repair kit
- Helmet(s) on request
IF YOU BRING YOUR OWN BIKE
Before departure, check your bike thoroughly: brakes, tyres, cassette, derailleur, chain…
You may be far from assistance in the event of a mechanical issue!
Which bikes are suitable?
- Trekking bike
- Mountain bike
- Gravel bike
- Electric bike with good battery range
- Road bike
- City bike
💡 As the itinerary includes many sections of compact gravel, avoid tyres that are too narrow or too smooth. Mountain bike tyres are not necessary either.
DIFFICULTY LEVEL
Our trips prioritise discovery and relaxation over physical effort.
We therefore aim to adjust the length of each stage according to the terrain, the type of paths and points of interest, so that each day remains balanced, enjoyable and open to spontaneity.
On some days, a longer option is available, which you can decide to take on the day itself. These variants do not skip any must-see highlights.
STAGE LENGTH:
STANDARD ℹ️
➡️ Overall average of 40 to 60 km/day
➡️ Around 3 to 4 hours of cycling per day – max. 5
➡️ A pace suitable for most riders, combining enjoyable cycling with discoveries along the way
GRADIENT:
MODERATE ℹ️
➡️ Overall average ascent: between +200 and +600 m/day
➡️ Generally gentle and accessible terrain, with some hillier sections that may include steeper climbs. Gentle gradients, often on greenways, can also be longer.
If you take the longer option whenever possible, the average ascent increases to 585 m/day, with a maximum of 710 m in a single day.
⚡ To fully enjoy the route, even on climbs, you may opt for an electric bike.
TYPE OF PATHS:
The route is fairly evenly split between quiet country roads with little or no traffic and cycle paths on compact gravel, well away from cars. A few short sections run alongside main roads, but always on a separate cycle path. Only the 16 km section between Plansee and Linderhof may experience slightly higher traffic in peak season, but nothing problematic.
In terms of surface, the route alternates between tarmac roads and well-maintained compact gravel paths, which do not require suspension or mountain bike tyres. As gravel sections make up a significant part of the route, those bringing their own bikes should ensure they are fitted with mixed (hybrid) tyres, as overly smooth tyres are not ideal for this type of terrain.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
⏱️ DURATION
7 days and 6 nights, including arrival and departure days. 4 days of cycling and one day of hiking or cycling in the Alps halfway through the trip.
📅 POSSIBLE START DATES
Every day from 21 May to 15 October
🗺️ TYPE OF ROUTE
Loop itinerary. At the end of the route, you return to your original starting point.
📍 START AND END POINT
Start of the trip: Füssen
End of the trip: Füssen
🌦️ WHEN TO GO?
Weather conditions are generally favourable from May to October.
The region has a fairly pronounced continental climate: to the north, the Baltic Sea is around 700 km away, while to the south the Adriatic Sea is closer, but its moderating influence is largely blocked by the Alpine barrier between the two. Winters are therefore quite harsh and snowy, and it is advisable to wait until late April for snow to have melted on higher roads. Summer can be very hot in the lowlands, but the relative altitude of this itinerary fortunately helps to moderate temperatures.
🍽️ MEALS
Breakfasts are included.
Lunches and dinners are at your discretion.
During the day, you can eat in local restaurants (you will find recommendations in our roadbook) or enjoy a picnic using supplies from local shops.
For dinner, you will always find several restaurants within walking distance of your accommodation… unless the hotel itself already has one!
🧳 LUGGAGE TRANSFER
Your luggage is transported from one accommodation to the next by one of our service providers. During cycling stages, you only carry what you need for the day. A pannier is provided with rental bikes.
If you prefer to carry your luggage in side panniers, you will benefit from a price reduction.
🚩 GETTING THERE
BY TRAIN
From Paris or Geneva, allow 7 to 8 hours of travel time, and around 9.5 hours from Brussels. The journey can be made with just two connections from these cities if you are flexible with departure times.
From Strasbourg, the journey can even be completed within half a day.
BY CAR
On arrival, you can park your car at your hotel for the duration of your stay. Expect to pay around €10–15 per night, depending on the hotel booked.
For the remainder of your trip, you can park your car for €8/day at the bike hire company’s car park for the entire duration of your stay, whether or not you hire a bike. It is located just outside the town centre. Further details can be found in the roadbook.
💡 There is no free parking in Füssen or its immediate surroundings. In addition to the hire company’s car park, other paid car parks are available on the outskirts (from €5/day), but it is advisable to check in advance whether any events (festivals, markets, etc.) are taking place there during your stay. Further information on parking options can be found on the municipality’s website.
BY PLANE
The nearest airports are Augsburg and Munich. From Augsburg or Munich main station, allow around 2 hours by train to reach Füssen.
📑 TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
To help you make the most of your adventure, we provide several practical and easy-to-use resources:
A roadbook (A5 booklet) written by us, including:
- Practical information
- A detailed route description
- All necessary tourist information
- Restaurant recommendations
- Places to stock up on supplies
- Cultural insights and anecdotes
- A list of bike repair shops located near the route
A route map
Our navigation app (with your GPS tracks)
- Easy-to-use app (a short tutorial will be sent if needed)
- Satellite navigation (works in airplane mode)
- Custom tracks between each accommodation
- Voice guidance
📞 INDEPENDENCE AND SUPPORT
You travel independently (unguided), with telephone assistance available 7 days a week in case of any issues.
🛡️ INSURANCE
To ensure reimbursement of costs in the event of trip cancellation or issues on site, you may take out cancellation insurance (CAP Explorer Cancellation) or assistance insurance (CAP Explorer Assistance). Find out more about insurance options.
🎒 WHAT TO BRING
A helmet, lock, repair kit, phone holder and waterproof rear pannier form the basic equipment. If you have hired a bike, these are included (helmets are available on request only).
For added comfort, we also recommend bringing the following specific accessories:
Waterproof overtrousers
Lightweight, waterproof, windproof and easy to put on, they protect against rain, road spray and mud. Some models include gaiters that also cover shoes.
External battery (power bank)
Useful for recharging your phone during lunch breaks: navigation is energy-intensive, even in airplane mode.
Expect to pay €10–20.
Padded cycling shorts or gel saddle cover
Padded shorts improve comfort by absorbing shocks and reducing friction on longer rides. Alternatively, opt for a padded saddle cover.
Water bottle
More practical and sustainable than disposable bottles. Some models keep drinks cool for several hours thanks to insulated double walls.
Buff / neck warmer / beanie
Outside the summer months, mornings can be cool and you will be glad you brought them along!
PRICES 2026
The price is calculated based on a room for 2 people. All prices are per person and subject to availability of the requested room type.| Package | Standard category | Comfort category | Prestige category | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low season | Mid season | High season | Low season | Mid season | High season | Low season | Mid season | High season | |
| Double / twin room | €869 | €919 | €989 | €989 | €1,049 | €1,129 | €1,239 | €1,309 | €1,409 |
| Single room supplement | + €330 | + €350 | + €370 | + €330 | + €350 | + €370 | + €330 | + €350 | + €370 |
| Children discounts (sharing a room with 2 full-paying adults) |
0–3 years: −80% | 4–11 years: −40% | 12–17 years: −30% | ||||||||
| Group discounts | 6–11 people: −10% | 12+ people: −15% | ||||||||
| Extra nights (optional) |
Standard category | Comfort category | Prestige category | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low season | Mid season | High season | Low season | Mid season | High season | Low season | Mid season | High season | ||
| Garmisch-Partenkirchen | Double / twin room | €80 | €80 | €90 | €110 | €110 | €120 | €140 | €140 | €150 |
| Single room | €155 | €155 | €175 | €185 | €185 | €205 | €230 | €230 | €260 | |
| Füssen | Double / twin room | €80 | €85 | €90 | €110 | €120 | €130 | €140 | €150 | €160 |
| Single room | €155 | €160 | €170 | €185 | €195 | €205 | €230 | €240 | €260 | |
- Low season: 24/09 – 15/10
- Mid season: 21/05 – 30/06 & 01/09 – 23/09
- High season: 01/07 – 31/08
| BIKE HIRE (equipment included) | |
|---|---|
| Electric bike | €225 |
| Trekking bike | €145 |
| Children’s bike (under 12) | €125 |
| Child trailer | €100 |
| Single-wheel tag-along bike | €100 |
THE BASE PRICE INCLUDES
- Hotel or guesthouse accommodation in the chosen comfort category
- Breakfast at each accommodation
- Cable car ticket (Day 3)
- Luggage transfer between accommodations
- A detailed roadbook (A5 booklet + PDF), created by us during our reconnaissance trip
- GPS tracks for the route via our navigation app
- GPS tracks for the hike in the Partnach Gorge (via our app)
- A route map
- Luggage tags
- Telephone assistance 7 days a week
- Tourist taxes
- Booking fees
OPTIONS
- Rental bike(s)
- Single room supplement
- Additional night(s) in Füssen and/or Garmisch-Partenkirchen
- Optional insurance: cancellation and/or assistance
THE PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE
- Travel to and from Füssen
- Meals not mentioned above
- Bike supplement for the cable car (stage 2) – payable locally (approx. €3/bike)
- Entrance fees to tourist sites and personal expenses
- Anything not listed under “THE BASE PRICE INCLUDES”
SPECIAL CASES
- If you carry your own luggage, a discount applies (see booking form). An additional pannier is provided if you hire a bike.
- Solo travellers: a logistical supplement applies in addition to the single room supplement.
REVIEWS
Geneviève, 60“Another excellent cycling holiday organised by CyclOdyssées, this time in Bavaria/Tyrol combining sport and culture. Breathtaking landscapes discovered thanks to a very well-designed itinerary. Plenty of time planned for essential visits to castles, churches and remarkable monuments.” June 2025
Patrick, 59
“After cycling the Loire, we explored Bavaria and Tyrol by bike. Fantastic scenery, car-free roads and paths. Lovely hotels. Perfect organisation. No unpleasant surprises (except the German railways :-)).” May 2025
Marie-Claire and Philippe, 63 and 62
“A magnificent week cycling between Bavaria and Tyrol. Thank you for the excellent planning and organisation of this trip by Cyclodyssées. Perfect timing, excellent hotels, top-quality rental bikes, a very well-prepared roadbook and a user-friendly GPS app. Among all our cycling holidays, you are right at the top. Thank you. We wholeheartedly recommend it. A beautiful route through idyllic landscapes, on quiet cycle paths. Riding e-bikes allowed us to fully enjoy the variety of this tour, the suggested hikes (we are, after all, in the Alps) and the visits (we are also in the land of King Ludwig II’s castles). Cycling is the ideal way to discover this welcoming and bucolic region. We are already looking at your other tours.” August 2024
Manon and Sylvain, 53 and 62
“We did the Bavaria–Tyrol itinerary last July 2023 and everything was perfect! The choice of hotels, routes, recommendations and sightseeing advice… what outstanding organisation! Regular follow-up to ensure everything was going well. We are delighted and highly recommend this agency!” July 2023
View all reviews or leave us a review here. View all reviews or leave us a review.