Self-Guided Vineyards and Villages of Alsace in Luxury Bike Tour
Go beyond postcard perfect scenery and immerse yourself in the authentic spirit of Alsace, where tradition, history, and charm shape everyday life. The route reveals a fascinating mix of Roman, Gothic, and Baroque architecture, alongside museums housing exceptional cultural treasures. You will pass through the forested landscapes of the Vosges Mountains, the unique peat bogs of the Ried, and sun-drenched vineyards that define the region’s character.
Throughout the journey, you will experience the warmth and hospitality of the Alsatian people, the vibrancy of age-old traditions, and a cuisine known for its generosity and rich flavors. The distinctive aromas and tastes of Alsatian wines further enhance the experience, creating a true sense of place. Altogether, this tour paints a vivid picture of a region where life is savored, inviting you to discover one of France’s most delightful corners by bicycle.
Self-Guided
premiere hotels
Strasbourg
Strasbourg
easy to moderate
47 km / 29 mi
6
Min. 2, Max. 12
Strasbourg Airport (SXB)
Strasbourg Airport (SXB)
Highlights

Iconic Alsace Wine Route
Cycle through rolling vineyards and fairytale villages such as Eguisheim, Riquewihr, and Kaysersberg, at the heart of Alsace’s celebrated wine region.

Cultural and Natural Wonders of Alsace
Discover a remarkable blend of Roman, Gothic, and Baroque architecture, scenic canal paths, the Vosges forests, and the peaceful landscapes of the Ried.

Luxury Accommodations
Stay in carefully selected 4 or 5-star hotels, combining elegant comfort, refined hospitality, wellness facilities, and exceptional locations for a truly premium Alsace journey.
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.
| Day | Place | premiere Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Strasbourg | Régent Petite France (5-star) | |||
| DAY 2 | Sélestat area | Hôtel des Berges Illhaeusern (5-star) | B | 55 km / 34 mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Colmar | La Maison Des Têtes Hotel (5-star) | B | 50 km / 31 mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Guebwiller | Les Violette (4-star) | B | 35 km / 22 mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Riquewihr | Le chambard (5-star) | B | 50 km / 31 mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Obernai | Les 5 Terres (5-star) | B | 50 km / 31 mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Strasbourg | B | 40 km / 25 mi | cycling |
Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Strasbourg
Reach Strasbourg and settle into your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to wander through the city, admire its impressive Gothic cathedral, and explore the old quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll along the picturesque canals, cross charming bridges, and admire the colorful half-timbered houses that line the streets.
Stop at local cafés or bakeries to sample Alsatian treats like tarte flambée or freshly baked pastries. In the evening, enjoy a relaxed dinner at a traditional restaurant and soak in the lively yet historic atmosphere of this European cultural hub.

Day 2: Sélestat area
Depart from Strasbourg and cycle along the scenic Rhône–Rhine Canal towards Sélestat. This charming town is renowned for its rich historical character and well-preserved old buildings that reflect centuries of architectural heritage. Wander through cobbled streets, admire the timber-framed houses, and visit notable landmarks such as the Humanist Library and the Collegiate Church of Saint George.
Take time to enjoy local cafés or bakeries, sampling regional specialties, and capture the beauty of Sélestat’s historic squares and colorful façades. The peaceful canals and surrounding countryside offer perfect spots for photography and a leisurely pause before continuing your journey.


Day 3: Colmar
Begin the day with a visit to the elegant Baroque Abbey of Ebersmunster, admiring its intricate architecture and richly decorated interiors. Continue your ride through the charming villages of the Ried region, a picturesque landscape shaped by the Ill and Rhine rivers, where the numerous canals support diverse plant and animal life.
Along the way, pause to explore quaint streets, local markets, or small cafés tucked in these idyllic villages. Following the waterways, you will reach Colmar, a cultural gem celebrated for its beautifully preserved historic center, colorful half-timbered houses, and scenic canals.


Day 4: Guebwiller
Enjoy a relaxed morning in Colmar to further explore this enchanting city. A highlight is the renowned Issenheim Altarpiece, an exceptional masterpiece of Rhenish Renaissance art housed in the Unterlinden Museum, alongside numerous other notable collections. Stroll through the charming streets, admire the half-timbered houses, and perhaps stop at a café to savor local pastries or a glass of Alsace wine.
Later, cycle onward to Guebwiller, a picturesque wine-growing village nestled at the foothills of the Grand Ballon, where rolling vineyards and scenic landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for a leisurely afternoon.


Day 5: Riquewihr
Ride along the famous Alsace Wine Route, celebrated for its breathtaking scenery and vibrant wine towns shaped by generations of passionate winemakers. Skirting the base of the Vosges Mountains, the journey passes through postcard-perfect villages that define the reputation of Alsatian wines, including Eguisheim, Turckheim, Kaysersberg, and finally Riquewihr. Along the way, enjoy sweeping vineyard views, colorful half-timbered houses, and flower-lined streets.
Take time to pause at local wine cellars for tastings or conversations with welcoming vintners. The gentle cycling terrain and ever-changing landscapes make this stretch one of the most memorable highlights of the journey.


Day 6: Obernai
Continuing along the Alsace Wine Route, you will pass through picturesque villages such as Hunawihr, Ribeauvillé, Bergheim, and Andlau, home to an impressive Romanesque abbey. Each stop reveals charming streets, historic wine cellars, and centuries-old traditions deeply rooted in the region’s culture.
The route concludes in Obernai or Barr, both known for their welcoming atmosphere and well-preserved historic centers. Along the way, take time to explore the villages’ natural heritage, cultural landmarks, and traditional crafts, offering an authentic glimpse into Alsatian life. Rolling vineyards, scenic viewpoints, and quiet country roads make this day a perfect blend of nature and culture.


Day 7: Strasbourg
In Rosheim, visit the Church of Saints Peter and Paul, a fine example of Alsatian Romanesque design. Passing through Molsheim, you will connect to the Bruche Canal cycling path, which guides you smoothly back into the center of Strasbourg.
Returning to this vibrant European city, known for its lifestyle and cuisine, marks a fitting end to the journey, with departure or the option to extend your stay.

Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Accommodation
Each hotel has been thoughtfully selected to ensure an exceptional and memorable experience for guests. Should the listed hotel be unavailable, we will ensure an alternative of similar quality.

Sofitel Strasbourg Grande Île (5-star)
The hotel combines elegant contemporary design with local culture, featuring comfortable rooms, refined French cuisine, an urban vineyard garden, and exceptional hospitality.

Hôtel des Berges Illhaeusern (5-star)
Guests can enjoy refined daily breakfasts in serene settings whether in their room, on the terrace, in the garden or even on the river alongside access to a spa, outdoor pool and a top gastronomic experience nearby

L'Esquisse Hotel (5-star)
L'Esquisse Hôtel & Spa is a 5-star boutique hotel in the heart of Colmar’s historic centre, set in a peaceful green setting near the Champ de Mars, offering refined rooms and suites with elegant, contemporary design.

Les Violette (4-star)
The hotel also features a large wellness area with extensive spa facilities and a restaurant serving refined cuisine in a tranquil garden atmosphere.

Le chambard (5-star)
Le Chambard is a luxurious 5-star Relais & Châteaux hotel in the charming village of Kaysersberg, blending refined elegance with warm, personalized hospitality. The hotel features beautifully styled rooms, a relaxing spa, and a Michelin-starred restaurant, making it a perfect base to explore Alsace’s wine region and heritage.

Les 5 Terres (5-star)
Les 5 Terres Hôtel & Spa is a distinguished 5-star property in Barr, located on the Alsace Wine Route, offering elegant accommodation with vineyard views and contemporary comfort. Guests can enjoy a soothing spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and refined dining for a truly indulgent stay in the heart of Alsace.
Dates and Prices
Book with Confidence: For scheduled group departures, your 20% deposit is fully refundable until 60 days before departure. Solo travellers booking 120+ days in advance can avoid a mandatory Single Supplement. See terms & conditions.
Single Supplement
From US $1,750
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $250
Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?
Open your date as a join-in tour or customize further as a private one.
Essential Info
Inclusions
LODGING
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
Luggage Transfer
Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
Exclusions
Airport pickup
We recommend to book direclty from airport.
Airport drop
We recommend to book direclty from your last hotel.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
Bikes
A great ride begins with a great bike. Our tours typically include the models listed below, though in some cases—due to height or availability constraints—we may provide an equivalent alternative.

KTM Macina Cross 720 or similar
Included in your trip price

Velo de Ville SEB 890 or similar
Available at a surcharge
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival and Departure
The tour begins and ends in Strasbourg, a city that is exceptionally well connected by high-speed rail.
The most convenient way is to fly to Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) airport and take a direct train to Strasbourg.
Direct TGV trains run from inside the airport to Strasbourg
Travel time: ~2 hours
No need to enter Paris city
Frankfurt International Airport (FRA) is also very popular for long-haul arrivals. It has direct ICE/TGV train connections to Strasbourg
Travel time: ~2–2.5 hours
Zurich Airport (ZRH) is another smaller but efficient option.
Direct or 1-change trains
Travel time: ~2.5 hours
This option offers the best balance of flight availability, comfort, and simplicity, especially after a long-haul journey.
Strasbourg also has a small international airport, and it is possible to fly directly to Strasbourg Airport (SXB). However, the airport offers limited international flights (mostly European connections), and often requires a connection via Paris, Amsterdam, or Frankfurt
Convenient if timings align, but usually more expensive and less flexible
From SXB airport, you can take 10-minute train ride to Strasbourg city center or taxi (~15 minutes)
Weather
Alsace experiences a distinct rhythm of seasons, each offering a unique charm to travelers. The winter months from January to March are considered off-season, with cooler temperatures and a quieter atmosphere, making it less ideal for cycling or outdoor exploration.
April marks a mixed season, as the region begins to warm, with temperatures ranging between 18°C and 25°C, and spring blooms adding color to the landscape. May is classified as a good month, offering pleasantly warm conditions, perfect for sightseeing and enjoying the vineyards.
June, July, and August is the best season, with temperatures averaging 25°C and occasionally exceeding 35°C during heat waves, providing long sunny days ideal for outdoor adventures. September is again a good month, with temperatures between 18°C and 25°C, offering a comfortable climate and fewer crowds.
October is a mixed month, with similar temperatures and the added beauty of autumnal colors in the forests and vineyards.
Finally, November and December return to off-season, with cooler weather and a tranquil ambiance, making it a peaceful period to explore Alsace’s towns and cultural sites without the summer crowds.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Offseason
April
Mixed
May
Good
June
Best
July
Best
August
Best
September
Good
October
Mixed
November
Offseason
December
Offseason
Best
Good
Mixed
Offseason
What to Pack
Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.
Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear
- Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
- Padded cycling shorts.
- Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
- Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
- Synthetic cycling socks.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
- Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
- Rain jacket or windbreaker.
- Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).
Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.
Clothing
- Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
- Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
- Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
- Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
- Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.
Other Necessities
- Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Plug socket adaptor.
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.
Pro Tips
- Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
- Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
- Pack light to leave room for shopping.
Luggage
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Visa Information
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Insurance
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
Is proof of medical insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
A self-guided bike tour allows you to explore independently using our detailed app-based navigation and pre-arranged logistics. We provide route notes via app, luggage transfers, hotel bookings, and emergency phone support. There is no local guide riding with you, so you manage your own navigation and basic bike upkeep.
For self-guided tours, the fitting process is designed to be simple and flexible while ensuring you start with a bike that suits your measurements.
Before Your Tour
When you book, we ask for your height. This allows our local partners to select the correct frame size and prepare the bike in advance so it’s close to your ideal fit when you arrive.
At the Start of the Tour
The setup experience varies by destination:
-
In some locations, you may receive an in-person handover with basic adjustments made by the local partner.
-
In others, especially in more remote regions, you may receive a bike that is pre-set based on the measurements you provided.
All self-guided bikes include basic tools, so you can make simple adjustments such as raising or lowering the saddle yourself.
During the Tour
You can adjust the bike as you ride using the provided tools. If anything feels off and you need assistance, our local partners are reachable and will support you as promptly as the location allows.
What to Expect
The self-guided bike fit is practical and rider-adjustable. It ensures:
- You start with the correct frame size
- You can fine-tune your comfort easily
- You have the flexibility to adjust as needed along the route
It’s not an in-depth professional fitting, but it’s perfectly suited for multi-day touring comfort.
We provide an app-based navigation system that includes all your daily routes, points of interest, and important trip notes. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we’ll share your login details before your trip.
Yes. Once the routes are downloaded, the app works completely offline, so you don’t need mobile data while riding. You can even use it in airplane mode, which helps conserve your phone’s battery.
To extend battery life further, we recommend reducing screen brightness and carrying a small power bank for longer days on the trail.
A mobile holder is not provided. Since you’ll be using your phone for navigation, we strongly recommend bringing your own sturdy, handlebar-mounted mobile holder to ensure a safe and comfortable riding experience.
We do not provide GPX files separately. All routes are available within our navigation app, which is the most reliable and up-to-date source for your trip. Once you receive the login details for the navigation app — generally shared about one month before your departure — you can explore the routes and, if needed, also download the GPX files directly from the app for use with your personal Garmin or GPS device. We recommend getting familiar with the app and its features before your tour starts to ensure a smooth experience on the road.
For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tools to help them fix such minor issues. The exact contents of the kit depend on the type of bike, terrain and other factors, and will be communicated to you closer to your date of departure. However, usually such a kit includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. In some cases, the kit may only include a pump or a repair foam.
Self-guided riders are expected to be independent in handling these minor problems. While there are some bike shops along the route, they are limited. If you are unsure about how to repair a puncture, we recommend considering a guided or van-supported trip instead.
For major mechanical failures, such as a cable break, the guests can contact the emergency support number provided. The support team will help coordinate a solution, which could include dispatching a local mechanic, suggesting a nearby bicycle shop for repairs, or sending a vehicle to pick up the rider. Please note that all support services will be provided on a chargeable basis, and assistance may take time, so we advise being prepared for potential delays.
Yes, each rider will be provided with at least one pannier to carry personal items during the tour. Please note, road bikes do not support panniers.
Yes, we provide helmets. However, we recommend that guests try to bring their own helmets, as these are items of a personal nature.
Your luggage will be picked up at the reception of your hotel every morning by 9.00am.
It will be delivered to the next hotel before 5pm. Most of the time it is delivered in the early afternoon itself.
We recommend that you carry no more than 2 bags together weighing up to 15kgs for this trip. You can have one large bag, which contains all your clothing and gear needed for the trip, and one small bag that contains essential items you will frequently need such as passport etc. Please note that once a bag gets loaded in the luggage transfer vehicle, you may not have access to it till later in the evening when you reach the hotel for the night.
We provide local support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our local team will assist in coordinating medical care, guiding you to the nearest healthcare facility, and ensuring you receive the necessary support. The national emergency system is reliable and effective, and in the event of a serious accident, contacting them is highly recommended. However, due to our distance from certain areas, response times may be longer. We strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance, and we will do everything we can to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency.
Airport transfers are not included unless specifically mentioned in your trip inclusions.
For airport pickup, we recommend booking directly from the airport upon arrival — most airports have reliable taxi, shuttle, or app-based options.
For airport drop, please book a transfer through your last hotel — they can easily arrange it for you.
We focus on delivering exceptional experiences during your tour. For logistical simplicity and flexibility, we do not handle pre- or post-tour hotel bookings. However, we’re happy to share a list of recommended hotels near the starting and ending points of your trip so you can plan your stay independently.
We are happy to pass on your room preference for a twin or double setup, and our hotel partners do their best to accommodate these requests. However, room configurations are always subject to availability at each property.
On some of our trips—especially those that travel through remote regions or small boutique inns—room types may be limited. In such cases, despite our best efforts, you may need to stay in a double room instead of a twin, or twin instead of a double, depending on what is available.
Given the nature of our journeys and the unique places we visit, we kindly ask for your understanding and support if such adjustments are required.
We will always inform you in advance wherever possible and work closely with our partners to ensure the most comfortable arrangement for your stay.
The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.
Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.
Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)
Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.
You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.
The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.
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