A selection of cycle routes: The 5 most beautiful cycle routes through wine-growing regions in Germany, Austria and South Tyrol

If you prefer to cycle individual loops rather than long-distance routes, you’ll find in our Seven circular walks through wine-growing regions More ideas. The following applies to all five tips: wine tasting and cycling don’t go hand in hand. Tasting sessions should be saved for the end of the day, when you’ll be putting your bike to one side.

An overview of the five most beautiful wine cycle routes

The Moselle Cycle Route is the best choice for anyone wishing to start a wine tour by bike in the most relaxed way possible. Stretching 248 kilometres, the route follows the Moselle from Perl on the German-French border to Koblenz. The route is almost entirely tarmac, predominantly flat and has been awarded an ADFC four-star quality cycling route rating. In many places, the official route runs on both sides of the Moselle, allowing for flexible planning of daily stages. Information: www.visitmosel.de

The real charm begins where the valley narrows: vineyards rise directly above the river, with castles, wine-growing villages and tight bends beyond. Trier, Bernkastel-Kues, Traben-Trarbach, Cochem and Koblenz are obvious places to stay overnight. Those seeking more elevation gain and better views over the valley can supplement the riverside route with one of the Circular tours of the Moselle vineyards.

The best way to travel along the Moselle is: Plan for four to six days and don’t try to do too much. The sections along the riverbank are easy, but the towns and wine villages take time. On warm weekends, particularly popular stretches can get crowded. It’s worth setting off early and choosing a stage away from the main towns.

2. The Baden Wine Cycle Route: The longest wine tour in southern Germany

The Baden Wine Cycle Route connects the wine-growing regions between Basel and Weinheim over a distance of around 460 kilometres. It passes through seven of the nine wine-growing regions of Baden, making it not just a short evening ride but a journey of discovery lasting several days along the Rhine Valley, through the Kaiserstuhl, Breisgau, Ortenau and Kraichgau. The official route is divided into eight stages, with an alternative route via Freiburg and the Glottertal. An overview of the stages and route information can be found at www.badische-weinstrasse.de

This route’s appeal lies not in unending views of vineyards, but in its variety: flat stretches along the Rhine, volcanic cones in the Kaiserstuhl, city stops in Freiburg, and hilly sections in the Ortenau and Kraichgau regions. That is precisely what makes it an attractive choice for a week-long cycling holiday. If you’re looking for a shorter tour, you can focus on the Kaiserstuhl and Tuniberg section. Starting out around Freiburg is particularly convenient for this.

Our tip: Don’t just plan based on the daily mileage. The terrain changes significantly, and the most attractive detours often lead up into the vineyards. With a gravel or trekking bike, a wide gear range and electric assistance, the route remains a relaxed ride. For a taster, check out our Tour along the Baden Wine Cycle Route.

3. The Danube Cycle Path through the Wachau: Cycling along the river between Melk and Krems

The Wachau is proof that a wine cycle tour doesn’t necessarily need lots of hills. Between Melk and Krems, the Danube Cycle Path winds its way through the cultural landscape, taking in its wine-growing villages, terraces and viewpoints. Those who stick to the river enjoy an easy, steady ride. Those who want to head up into the vineyards can deliberately include short but noticeable climbs.

Choosing between the north and south banks is a particularly lovely experience. The north bank connects Spitz and Weißenkirchen with Krems, amongst other places, whilst the south bank runs from Melk via Schönbühel-Aggsbach towards Mautern. The official route along the north bank takes you through the UNESCO-listed Wachau region to Krems. If you choose the right side before setting off, you’ll avoid unnecessary bridge crossings and have more time for Dürnstein, little wine taverns or a ferry crossing. Full details of the different routes along the Danube Cycle Path can be found at www.donau.com

Here’s how to make it a great day out: Cycle along the main route in the morning and make just one specific detour to a viewpoint or a wine-growing village. The Wachau is compact, making it ideal for a long weekend. For families and beginners, the route along the water’s edge is the better choice. Keen cyclists can follow this up with a hilly loop in the Kremstal.

4. Styria Wine Country Cycle Tour: A long route for e-bikes and endurance cyclists

The Styrian Wine Country Cycle Tour is the most varied route in this selection. The 403-kilometre loop begins and ends in Leibnitz, taking in eight stages through southern, eastern and western Styria, as well as the thermal springs and volcanic regions. Along the way, you’ll find wine routes, wine taverns, thermal spas, pumpkin fields and historic towns. The route is classified as moderately difficult and can be started at any point along the loop. Full details at www.steiermark.com

The difference compared to the Moselle and the Wachau: here, cycling is part of the experience of the landscape, not just a means of getting between wine-growing villages. The stages are more challenging, particularly in the west and south. In return, they reward you with sweeping views across vineyard-covered slopes and a culinary diversity that goes beyond wine: pumpkin seed oil, apples, regional specialities and stops at thermal spas are all part of the experience.

The right strategy: Eight stages are a good guide, but not essential. With an e-bike and moderate daily distances, there’s time to stop off at wine taverns. Those cycling without a motor should not underestimate the hillier sections and should allow for at least one extra night’s accommodation. Our guide is also useful for preparing for the trip: A 400-kilometre tour through the vineyards of Styria.

5. Southern Wine Cycle Route in South Tyrol: A compact loop between Tramin and Kurtatsch

The Southern Wine Cycle Route showcases South Tyrol at its sunniest and most leisurely best. This day trip, approximately 40 kilometres long, winds through South Tyrol’s southernmost wine-growing regions and connects wine-growing villages such as Tramin, Kurtatsch, Margreid and Kurtinig. It is ideal for a day out without having to worry about luggage, for a hired e-bike, or as a relaxing way to round off a longer trip to South Tyrol. The official route description classifies the tour as a leisurely cycle route through the southern part of the wine-growing region. Information on the Wine Cycle Route can be found at www.suedtirol.info

Unlike in the wider Adige Valley, the vineyards take centre stage here. Small villages, farmsteads and the mountain backdrop make this route particularly special. Nevertheless, it should not be confused with a completely flat riverside route: depending on the route you choose, there are some gentle inclines. Those who simply want to cruise along should stick to the valley cycle paths. Those looking for the most beautiful views should take the turn-offs into the villages and allow plenty of time.

For planning your trip: Spring and autumn are particularly charming; in the height of summer, it can get very hot in the valley. Be sure to pack water and protection from the sun and the weather. For further inspiration on South Tyrol, take a look at our Wine Route through the vineyards a different perspective on wine-growing regions in the Alpine region.

Which wine cycle route is right for you?

Plan your stop as your final destination, not just a stop-off. Cycling requires concentration, quick reactions and safe descents. Wine tastings, long meals and overnight stays are therefore best left until the end of the stage.

Choose your daily stages based on the terrain, not just on the distance in kilometres. 70 flat kilometres along the Moselle or the Danube feel very different from 70 kilometres through the Styrian hills. Checking the elevation gain, the terrain and any possible shortcuts will help you avoid frustration.

Book early at weekends. Grape harvests, festivals and lovely autumn weather make these regions very popular. If you organise your train and cycle tickets and accommodation in good time, you’ll have a more relaxed start to your trip.

Conclusion: The best route is the one that suits your own pace

For your first multi-day wine cycle tour, the Moselle is hard to beat. If you’re looking for variety, head to Baden. If you want to combine the tranquil rhythm of the river with culture, head for the Wachau. Styria is the choice for active connoisseurs, whilst the Southern Wine Cycle Route in South Tyrol offers an exceptionally packed day trip.

The most important decision isn’t which route connects the most vineyards. What matters is how much time you allow between stops. That’s when kilometres cycled turn into days of genuine enjoyment.