From the Old World charm of Prague and the Czech Republic, our journey will include the Unesco World Heritage site of Cesky-Krumlov and idyllic countryside of southern Bohemia; in Austria, we’ll follow the Danube River, where you can choose between gentle bike paths or venture into the nearby moderate hills where vineyards tempt. Our trip finishes in Vienna, one of Europe’s most important artistic centers.

Only Great Explorations:

  • Small groups, extraordinary guides, and authentic experiences
  • We’ve planned layover days in Cesky-Krumlov and Weissenkirchen to allow relaxation time
  • See lots of castles including a guided visit of Krumlov Hrad
  • Dine in restaurants you won’t find in guidebooks
  • Distinctive, charming hotels too small for larger groups
  • We design and operate our own trips so there are only good surprises

Location

Prague

Prague, Czech Republic

Day 1

Tabor

Tabor, Žalec, Slovenia

Day 1

Cesky-Krumlov

Cesky-Krumlov

Day 2+3

Maria Taferl

Maria Taferl

Day 4

Weissenkirchen

Weissenkirchen

Day 5+6

What’s Included in the Cost of Your Trip?

INCLUDED IN REGULAR TRIP

Services of one or more experienced Great Explorations guides
Support vehicle
6 nights lodging
All breakfasts, 2 lunches, and all dinners but 1
Entrance fees for selected tastings, historical sites and museums
Detailed map and route instructions
All baggage transportation
All transportation from initial meeting point to final drop-off (see arrive/depart cities)
Gratuities for all meals, hotels etc. are included; tips for Great Explorations guide(s) are additional and at your discretion

Not Included

Bike rental

Particulars

EVENT DATES

2023

May 30-Jun 5
Jun 1-7
Jun 7-13
Jun 15-21
Jun 22-28
Jun 29-Jul 5
Jul 8-14
Aug 12-18
Aug 27-Sep 2
Sep 23-29

2024

May 28-Jun 3
May 30-Jun 5
Jun 5-11
Jun 13-19
Jun 20-26
Jun 27-Jul 3
Jul 6-12
Aug 10-16
Aug 25-31
Sep 21-27

Trip can start at any date. Custom and self-guided trips also available. Call or email for details.

TRIP SIZE

4-16 participants

TOTAL DAYS

7 days / 6 nights

ARRIVE / DEPART

Prague / Vienna

ACTIVITY LEVEL

Moderate
30-55 km daily (20-40 miles)
Van supported

TERRAIN

Mix with some rewarding (moderate) hills in the Czech Republic. The Danube bike paths are flat, so 3 of the 6 days are easy-going.

COST

Land Cost:
US $2,950
Includes 6B/2L/5D

Single Supplement:
US $750

Bike Rental:
US $280

E-Bike Rental*:
US $480

*E-bikes are generally available but are on an ‘on request basis ‘ and will be confirmed on receipt of your booking registration. E-bikes provided are the best rentals available in the region. Our regular fleet of hybrid and race bikes are fun to ride and light and fast, but if having an e-bike will make your trip, we’ll do our best to provide. E-bike rentals are non-refundable.  

Pre-Extension Prague*:
US $395 pp
Single Supp: US$100

Post-Extension Vienna*:
US $395 pp
Single Supp: US$100

*Please note, the hotels we use on our Extension trips are personal favourites and we only share the names with those booking these with us. On Great Explorations Extension trips, the local expert guides we work with are the best in their fields and we hope they will make your time in these cities special.

Please note: Final itinerary is subject to revision; any changes made are done so in an attempt to provide the best possible trip given route conditions and available services. Due to the nature of our business and exchange rates, prices are subject to change. All prices quoted are U.S. dollars but we gladly accept payment in Canadian dollars also. Due to cancellations and waiting lists, trip availability fluctuates daily. If you have any questions or would like to confirm space on this trip before making your reservation, please contact us at info@great-explorations.com or by telephone at 604.730.1247.

Getting there

The trip begins in Prague, Czech Republic, and ends in Vienna, Austria. We suggest that you fly into Prague’s Ruzyne Airport. You can return to Prague after the trip ends or fly out of Vienna. Consider our extensions in Prague and Vienna as both of these cities are worth spending additional time in.


1

Pre-trip Extension Day -2 & -1

Optional
Prague Extension

What is included:

  • 2 nights at a 4-star hotel with breakfast daily
  • 1/2 day guided visit of the city
  • City Guide Prague (recommendations on what to see, where to eat etc.)
2

Day 1

Tabor

Our trip will begin with a short train ride from Prague to Tabor where we will fit bikes and begin cycling. You will have different distance options as you explore the countryside here. Tabor is a Hussite village with Renaissance buildings and a beautiful historic center. If time permits, visit a labyrinthe of tunnels dating from the 15th century, used by defenders of the town.We’re staying at the Hotel Nautilus, a 4-star boutique hotel in the historical center.
Distance: 24 km, elevation gain 247 m or 34 km, gain 437 m or67 km, gain 422 m.*

3

Day 2+3

Cesky-Krumlov

Avid riders can cycle all the way from Tabor to Cesky-Krumlov, or for those prefering a more moderate day, transfer first to Cesky-Budejovice, which has a fascinating center. Arrive to Cesky-Krumlov, the most exquisite town in the Czech Republic. Next day, we ride south to Lake Lipno in Sumava National Park returning along the Vltava River. Back in Cesky-Krumlov, we’ll take a walking tour with a local historian including a visit to the castle of Krumlov Hrad. We’ll enjoy dinner at a favourite local restaurant.
Distance D2: 31 up to 71 km, elevation gain up to 344 m.
Distance D3: 34 km, elevation gain 653 m or 42 km, gain 686 m.*

4

Day 4

Maria Taferl

We will transfer from Cesky-Krumlov to Enns, the oldest city in Austria and situated on the Danube. From here, cycle downstream through the fertile Machland, crossing Europe’s oldest wooden bridge and the villages of Ardagger Markt, with its many museums and the pretty village of Grein. We’ll cross the Danube at Ybbs and at Marbach, climb up to Maria Taferl where our hotel boasts an exquisite view over the valley. Those wishing a longer ride, can challenge themselves with a loop to the village of Artstetten nearby.
Distance: 43 up to 74 km, elevation gain up to 1405 m.

5

Day 5+6

Weissenkirchen 

Following the Danube east through the Wachau, a region of abbeys, churches and castles we’ll reach Melk Abbey, a magnificent Baroque building still used by Benedictine monks; our hotel, the Raffelsberger Hof, located in Weissenkirchen, dates from 1574 and was renovated into a boutique hotel by the Anton family.

Next day, our cycling route continues to Durnstein, with the romantically-situated ruins of Durnstein castle above town. England’s King Richard the Lionhearted was held hostage for a king’s ransom in the castle in the 12th cenutury. In Krems, visit the Weinstadt Museum, in a restored 13th century Dominican monastery, and for those interested in more wine knowledge (and tastings), the Winzer Krems, a prominent winery. The short option loops back to the hotel and the moderate ride continues on to Tulln, the ‘flower town’ on the Danube. There is also a long (and hilly) option to the castle at Schloss Rosenburg. We will have a festive final night dinner, as we always do, toasting our time in this fascinating and beautiful region.
Distance D5: 44 km, elevation gain 194 m or 64 km, gain 778 m.
Distance D6: 34 km, elevation gain 428 m or 54 km, gain 1012 m.*

6

Day 7

Departure Day

Transfer to Krems for train connections into Vienna for flights or extended stay.

*Distance and elevation gains may vary depending on hotels chosen for specific departure.

7

Post-trip Extension Day 7 & 8

Optional
Vienna Extension

What is included:

  • 2 nights at a 4-star hotel in the historical center with breakfast daily
  • 1/2 day guided visit of the city
  • City Guide Vienna (recommendations on what to see, where to eat etc.)
Hotel Nautilus, Tabor

This 4-star boutique hotel was renovated from a former townhouse and is located on the central plaza of Tabor, with comfortable rooms and an exquisite restaurant. Frommers notes, "Easily the most sytlish and comfortable in town."


Hotel Konvice, Cesky-Krumlov

This hotel is the highest-rated in CK, this charming family owned hotel is in a quiet location in the historical center of town. Frommers notes, "As you gaze at the river and the castle on the opposite bank, you'll wonder why anyone would choose to stay elsewhere."


Hotel Schachner, Maria Taferl

This 4-star hotel is located in the village of Maria Taferl, with views of the Danube. The restaurant here is excellent and there is a pool and spa facilities.


Hotel Raffelsburger, Weissenkirchen

Built in 1574, this property was renovated by the Anton family and now is a treasure of antiques. With just 15 rooms, it is intimate and boasts a location overlooking the Danube, and close to the quaint villages of Durnstein and others.



			


Trip Reviews

October 28, 2022

“Everything exceeded our expectations!”

November 8, 2019

“Beautiful cycling in two countries we had never been to before. Veronica and Adrian were super guides and went out of their way to meet everyones needs. For example, they arranged a lovely birthday picnic to celebrate one of the guest’s birthdays, which included bubbly and a cake! The cycling through Czech Republic and Austria was beautiful. I particularly loved the routes through the country side. The last ride of the trip which was modified by Veronica to allow our strong group of riders a more challenging last ride, was the best ride of the trip! Again, an example of how well Veronica and Adrian were able to meet the needs of the group. All the hotels while very different from one another were very nice. I particularly liked the guided walking tours in Prague and Vienna – the guides were excellent, very informative. Adrian and Veronica did a great job with bike modifications and while I personally never needed the van there were plenty of opportunities to access it.”

October 17, 2019

“Great guides and great location makes a great trip experience. I had no expectations as I had never been to any of these places so they were all interesting and enjoyable. I am accustom to modern North American hotels so these European hotels were to me, unique and different making them enjoyable to stay in. The underground tunnels in Tabor were fascinating. The tour of the Budweiser factory was also interesting. The “ride with gps” route data was handy and the overall maps were useful for pre-orientation but we did not need to use them as we were always with a guide. The distances were just enough for us but the guides were flexible to add or cut distance if necessary. Yes the van was available and we made use of it at strategic points. The bikes were suitable for the type riding we were doing.”

October 9, 2019

“The trip was phenomenal, for me, the main thing was distance cycled. 308 miles. I was happy that I was able to do it with family and friends. And the food, and the beer 🙂 The guides were fantastic, Veronica even knew what to get at each place, and what is best at each place. I was very happy with the pre-tour in Prague and Vienna. Both guides were fantastic. Our guide in Cesky Krumlov was great and very knowledgeable too. All the hotels were great. Hotel Josef was superb, the breakfast was amazing, and that is important if you walk around Prague for 8 hours with a stop for beet and lunch. Stadthalle was memorable for its unique bathroom shower in the room. I do not eat soups in the US or UK. Only in Poland and now, in Prague and Vienna, obviously the rest of the food was great, but the soups stand out. Tasting in Wachau was memorable, especially given that we just rode up to some bike stands and that is when the trip was over. 308 miles! 6 days. 24 hours of riding time.16,200 feet. 9000 calories. Ride with GPS worked very well, and ended up using them, since I did not have European maps on my Garmin. The ride options were adequate I felt like we maximised the distance, plus we did 108 miles in a day, crossing from Czech to Austria. Van & technical support were really well put together, we saw the van frequently and could get water. These bikes are worth the rental fee vs. the pain with airlines these days. the fact that they have 105s and good tires makes all the difference.”

October 9, 2019

“The trip was well organized and planned out. The hotels were outstanding and the food was amazing. I would do the trip again if one of my other friends was interested. The trip was perfect. I liked the people we were with and the friends we made. The comfort that everything was taken care of and the experience of the guides. The daily trips to see the historical site was first class. The Tour guides devoted just to our group made it even better. I think all of the hotel were first class. The breakfast were excellent and fueled the daily rides. Best meal was the dinner on day 3 with the traditional band. All of the events were outstanding as we always had a dedicated guide that was from the local exhibit. It made it more personalized. It was a nice touch. The daily rids were outstanding. They were well payed out and easy to follow. There was always more then one riding option witch was perfect. Always someone there when you needed something. The bikes were good. We traveled with you in the past and your service is outstanding.”

October 9, 2019

“Wonderful cycling routes… just beautiful riding through farms, forests and villages. Very pleased with all the hotels. Great choices. All restaurants were great and we always had something we could enjoy. You always do a great job of providing lots of local experiences, and this area is ‘opportunity rich’. The new ‘Ride with GPS’ option is an excellent alternative and worked very well. Excellent solution. Daily distances & level of difficulty as expected and described. Nothing overwhelming. Van always readily available. Guides (Adrien especially when mechanical help was needed) made impressive extra effort to make sure everyone was very comfortable. Bikes were in excellent condition and suitable for riders of every level. Gearing suitable for terrain. Absolutely no need to bring your own bike. We enjoyed the guides and the biking routes. Truly excellent rides that were obviously planned and researched in detail by locals. We have ridden with you several times and have the highest confidence in your trips, guides, and routes/accommodations/meals.”

June 14, 2019

“Veronika and Adrian – they were amazing and so helpful – you are so lucky to have them. About the rides, I’m psyched I was able to do it! It felt like a big achievement. Loved ALL the trip events – the monasteries were over the top. The concentration camp was sobering but I had never been to one before and I’m so glad we did. Breakfast at the hotels were outstanding – my fav meal. Really all the meals were great. Loved the bikes and baskets on the front.”

June 11, 2019

“It was fabulous! Veronika and Adrian made the trip! They handled any challenges seamlessly- were supportive, informative and encouraging. My standards are high and I would call them spectacular guides/hosts. Lucky us!!!!!!! Loved the differing terrain between Check Republic and Austria. Once biking all hotels fantastic. The trip events were all great…nice break in the day! Never ridden such a great bike 🙂 Adrian oversaw all our bike needs..no flat tires the whole way for anyone!”

June 6, 2019

“Our guides, Veronika & Adrien, were exceptional! They served us well and planned out our rides that were comfortable for our level. Both were fun, always smiling and very encouraging. Beautiful country side and interesting guided tours. Enjoyed the atmosphere and comfort of all. I am thankful to Veronika & Adrien for taking our suitcases to our rooms since there was a lack of elevators. Enjoyed the variety of the trip events. All the guides were very informative and spoke English well. The maps & route instructions looked like the information was very clear. Fortunately, our guides stayed with us the entire week. We were a small group of 5 and biked at the same level. I felt like the distances we rode were adequate. Some of the climbs were challenging, but once done I felt accomplished. More then sufficient, support was awesome! Often the van appeared and we were offered snacks, water or a ride if needed. The bikes handled very well and were adjusted to our comfort. The most enjoyable on this trip was the experience of seeing beautiful country side at a biking pace and having a great time with friends.”

June 4, 2019

“Loved every minute–even the rain… The guides were wonderful and their positive attitude made the trip very special. Overall the hotels were great. The meals were enjoyable and seemed typical for the regions visited. The ride options were a bit more difficult but only because we had not bothered to really think about how hilly the beginning would be. The guides were great and offered a lot of instruction and encouragement. The guide’s technical support was terrific.”

June 4, 2019

“The guides [Veronika and Adrien] were exceptional and made the trip. They were fun, caring and professional. We give them 6 of 5 stars! All extra trips were excellent. I enjoyed the culture, guides and variety of activities.”

December 4, 2018

“By all means! The tour guides were amazing, always 1 step ahead in making sure all of our needs were met. Enjoyed cycling through 2 different countries, both unique and picturesque. Our group was really fun and the guides blended in well with our vibe”

December 4, 2018

“Guides, hotels, food, riding, route knowledge, add-on’s…all exceeded expectations. In particular, Czech Republic was great riding experience. Overall, we enjoyed the adventure and opportunity to share with Robbin and 2 excellent guides.”

June 17, 2016

“The types of roads/scenery we were biking on – a vast majority were very quiet, lovely roads with amazing views surrounding us- so wonderful!”

September 28, 2014

“This may be the best trip I’ve been on. Easily one of top 3, so tough to answer simply: The bike as transportation was eye opening. So much fun moving at self propelled speed! The combination of athleticism and tourism was fantastic – a new and wonderful experience that we want more of. I thought the guides made the trip. It was such a easy relationship. They did so much in the background to make it all work. It’s as if they were just another couple in our group. Just perfect. Peddling along the Danube, on an adventure, with friends, with unbelievable vistas, views and weather was probably my most memorable moment. We also loved Prague. It’s exceeded our expectations in ways we didn’t even consider. What an interesting city! And Vienna, although a different vibe, was also truly enjoyable. It really was the perfect trip.”

September 15, 2014

“This trip was a life experience for me that I will never forget. Everything came together and was ideal; the Guides, the weather, the biking, food and drink, physical challenge, accommodations, camaraderie in our gang (10 friends) and the overall logistics. I would recommend it to anyone and I can’t wait until my next Great Explorations trip!”

June 23, 2014

“We had an incredible trip from Prague to Vienna. The hotels and meals along the way were fantastic, and the riding was spectacular with different views and sights ever day. Our guide Veronika really made it all come together seamlessly – we couldn’t have asked for a better trip.”

September 22, 2012

“This bike trip was a special trip for us to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary. We really didn’t know what to expect as it was a first for us and it turned out to be the best trip we’ve ever taken! We love cycling and to be in this beautiful part of Europe and able to see things at “bike speed” was so special. We had so much fun and can’t wait to do another trip with Great Explorations!”

September 10, 2012

“The trip was exceptional. An amazingly beautiful way to explore a foreign country”

June 10, 2012

“We had the best holiday ever- loved every minute..”

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