Germany, Luxembourg, France

BEFORE BOOKING

Please note this is a bike and barge trip. You must be able to ride a bike, shift gears, ride 15-25 miles a day (with stops) and follow the rules set forth by the guide such as staying in your lane and understanding biking etiquette. You are welcome to stay on the barge if you choose not to bike on any given day.

HOW TO GET THERE

This trip starts in Cochem, Germany. One of the closest international airports is Frankfurt (FRA), 87 miles (140 km) to Cochem. Contact Taxi Edringer for a private transfer at info@taxizentrale-mosel.de or 0049-6531-8149.

The fastest trains from Frankfurt (FRA) Airport to Cochem take around 1 hour and 54 minutes, with one train change, covering a distance of approximately 101 kilometers. Check train schedules here: https://www.raileurope.com/en-us/destinations/frankfurt-airport-cochem-train Other options by train include: daily direct connections with Trier (45 minutes), Koblenz (50 minutes), Bonn (1h30), and Cologne (1h50).

Check Rome2Rio for other transfer and airport options: https://www.rome2rio.com/

CURRENCY

All three countries use the Euro. Check here for the most up-to-date exchange rates https://www.xe.com/

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Have at least six-month’s validity remaining on your passport.

ELECTRICAL PLUGS

Most continental European outlets take two round prongs while UK and Ireland use the three rectangular prongs. We suggest purchasing a universal adapter/converter. Click here to purchase an adapter/converter and view other travel accessories.

TIPPING

Plan on bringing €120 for tips which will be distributed to the guide and crew

WEATHER & WHAT TO WEAR

First of all: travel light! Bring comfortable clothes that you can wear in layers. Below you will find a few items you should bring: • Rain gear and sun glasses; be prepared for all weather types • A windbreaker or soft shell is also useful for cool mornings and chilly days • Padded cycling shorts will add considerably to your comfort (2 pair, one to wear and one to wash/hang to dry) • Cycling gloves • Sunscreen; even if the weather forecast is not sunny • Sports shoes (for walking and biking) • And of course your passport, credit cards and travel documents

ACCOMMODATIONS

This trip ends in Metz, France. We will update with hotel recommendations for those who want to stay the evening in Metz.

DINING

Breakfast, packed lunch and all but 1 dinner are included. On day 5 in Saarburg, you will be have dinner on your own. We will update with recommendations soon.

TRANSPORTATION & SECURITY

Bikes and helmets are included in this package. There is an additional charge of €250 for an ebike which must be booked 90 days prior to departure. You will be responsible for transportation to the barge in Cochem, Germany and from the barge in Metz, France. All three countries are safe. With all places you visit, petty crime can be an issue. Please be aware of your surroundings and belongings while traveling.

INTRO, HISTORY, & GEO

The Mosel river is a picturesque waterway that originates in the Vosges mountains of France. There it is known as the Moselle river as it meanders through northeastern France and before it eventually crosses the border with Luxembourg and Germany. The greater length of the river lies in France (just over 310 kilometers) but more people are aware of the German section, which is famous both for its Mosel valley wine and for its lovely villages and castles along the banks of the river. The Mosel finally merges with the Rhine river at Koblenz after nearly 550 kilometers. This region has a rich history, having been cultivated by the Romans centuries ago. Today, the hillsides along the Mosel are adorned with terraced vineyards that produce some of the finest Riesling wines. Adding to the allure are numerous castle ruins standing proudly atop hilltops overlooking charming wine villages and towns.