From Prague to Vienna

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, has a lot to offer: music and the middle ages, Kafka and Kisch, beer and dumplings with roast pork. Since 1992, the historical heart of Prague belongs to UNESCO world heritage sites. The well-preserved city centre, the historic architecture, the winded alleys of the old town, the splendid view that opens up from Charles’s Bridge and the Prague Fortress watching over everything. Strolling for hours in the alleys of Prague, looking at architecture, discovering new cafés and pubs – all belongs to a visit to Prague.

A slightly hilly and differentiated stage is waiting for you. You cycle past many small idyllically situated Bohemian villages. Small houses with wood-covered gables attract the admiration of by-passers. Cosy pubs invite for a refreshing Bohemian beer on the way. Only “recently” did the waves of the Vltava reservoir begin to ripple. Before, the Rocky River valley was wild and untamed. In the early 60s they began to build four valley blocks south of Prague. They dam up the Vltava into a few lakes. The tamed Vltava spreads up to 5.000 ha, depending on the water level in the reservoirs. The water plant covers energy peaks and extras. Accommodation in the surroundings of Sedlcary.

You cycle through small Bohemian villages until you reach the Vltava reservoir near Milesov. You continue through the deeply green Bohemian forest with the Vltava as your guideline to Orlik. The splendid Gothic fortress is situated here high above the Vltava on a steep rock. Furnished by the Schwarzenbergers, the fortress perfectly exemplifies the lifestyle of the aristocracy in the nineteenth century. Only a few kilometres away the next place of interest tempts the visitor: Fortress Zvikov. The beautiful promontory, where the Vltava and the Otava flow into one another, invited people to settle already in prehistoric times. In the Middle Ages the fortress was one of the most important ones in Bohemia. It was regarded as very difficult to capture. All on your own with the unspoilt Vltava landscape you will have no difficulties conquering the few remaining kilometres to Pisek. The picturesque town rest closely to the right bank of the river Otava. In prehistoric times people washed the “pisek” (sand) of the river Otava searching for gold; that is where the town’s name came from.

Enjoy the fascinating antique cultural water landscape along the “golden” Otava today. A beautiful quiet forest path takes you to the castle Hluboká, enthroned on a hill above the Vltava. It could just as well have been standing in England; Princess Eleonore von Schwarzberg was very gushing. The guiding example for the renovation of the castle in neo-Gothic style was Windsor with its many towers, merlons and playful details. Continuing along the Vltava you are approaching today’s destination: Budejovice. This city is not only a worthwhile experience because of its world-famous “Budweiser beer”. The royal city that was founded in the thirteenth century is with its 100.000 inhabitants the centre of South Bohemia today. The big market square (133 m x 133 m) with its Samson Fountain fascinates even today. Beautiful arcade houses from the Gothic and Renaissance periods add up to the dignified whole. You can quench your thirst after a city tour in one of the former ‘masne kramy’.

During today’s stage, you will experience nature at its purest. The southern Bohemian landscape features many meadows and forests. The region is recognised as a UNESCO nature reserve, and the so-called “southern Bohemian pond landscape” is a result of the long-standing fish farming tradition in the region. The wholly untouched nature is a fantastic experience for any cyclist, and there is also something for fans of culture and architecture; historical buildings, old citadels and picturesque villages are scattered all along the way.

Today’s stage will take you through the north of Lower Austria. The so-called “Waldviertel” region is known for its many river and pond landscapes. The cycle path will lead you through seemingly endless forests with fresh air and wonderful authenticity. The Waldviertel cuisine is also known far and wide. Make sure to try a dish with carp and potatoes, the culinary specialities of this region.

The Kamptal bicycle path will quickly lead you to Hadersdorf via Langenlois. The route is gorgeous and also relatively flat. You will soon spot the first vineyards around Krems. From Hadersdorf, you will take the train to Tulln. Take some time to visit the Egon Schiele museum before riding the last few kilometres along the Danube to Vienna. You will reach your accommodation via the Danube Island, comfortably avoiding all traffic.

Your bicycle tour ends after breakfast. We recommend staying longer to explore Vienna. Our transfer service in our bicycle bus is also a very comfortable option which can be booked.