Bike Planet Tours

A cyclists dream for 127 kilometers on a little-known route called the Fenway through the forest. This is Rails to Trail Europe. We ride on perfectly paved bike paths in Holland, peddling south into Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg and Germany again. The landscape is dotted with ancient abbeys, tidy villages with their whitewashed brick and half-timbered homes. We hopscotch along borders visiting two Imperial Cities (Aachen and Trier). With its lush forests and clean rivers, this region oozes abundance. The route meanders through high moor and grassland terrain, famous the world over for its local cheeses, cured meats and grains that flavor rich Belgian ales. Trailside cafés serve warm waffles with sweet toppings. Of course, sampling local specialties is what we do best.

Every day we bike through history. The Romans were firmly entrenched here evidenced by fort ruins, bridges, complex bathhouses, lead and copper mines, and a 130km aqua-duct supplying fresh water to troops on the Rhine River. Later, these woods were the favored hunting grounds of 9th century Carolingian emperors. A motherlode of iron and coal made the region a key player in steel manufacturing during the Industrial Revolution. The many markers and memorials remind passers-by of both the destruction and liberation by Allied Forces during the Battle of the Bulge.This is a destination you won’t find on your own. It’s tucked away, straddling borders you’d never know were there…a place mostly forgotten in the mists of time, a hidden gem in the heart of old Europe.

Hang onto your hat for a bike and barge journey like no other. Join us in northern Bavaria—the ancient kingdom of Franconia. This is the heart of old Germany and home of the Bratwurst! The bike path along the Main River is rated 5-stars by the German Federation of Cyclists. It’s hands-down one of the best cycle routes in the country. This tour is superbly solid and smooth in every way—just like a BMW. Vibrant cities, quaint villages, and gently rolling fields and forests. Simply enchanting. A place you dream about. See it all from the comfort of the barge or astride the saddle of your iron horse.

Yes, this tour is officially in Bavarian territory, but only recently. The locals still refer to themselves as Franks…seat of the early German kings and ancestral home of the British royal family. The cycling is easy along the river; the locals are friendly and proud of their vineyards and poets, musicians and beer…and we mean beer! The feeling here is very Gemütlich—a tongue-twister you’ll hear a lot that translates as “cozy, friendly, fun” wrapped up in one word. Come explore this colorful tapestry of castles and cathedrals, popes and princes spanning the ages. Look forward to two World Heritage sites and three very ancient, yet cosmopolitan cities: Aschaffenburg, Wuerzburg and Bamberg. Rapunzel let your hair down, it’s time to party!