Gears we go
exploring. Take an evening walking tour or discover it at your own pace before dinner and a night at the Hotel Arcotel Nike. It’s a bit corporate, but the beds are so comfy.
There are great viewpoints dotted around but the best views of Linz are from the 1,768ft Pöstlingberg hill, easily reached by tram.
Our fourth day took us to Krems via the stunning wine-growing region of Wachau, where you can do tastings and wander through the vineyards along another pretty stretch of the river.
Once in Krems, exploring the Unesco world heritage old town and a stop for lunch is in order. We were not doing the full seven-day itinerary so – after a night in the Krems Hotel Arte, a charming place by the river with a homely feel and great food, our journey ended.
We handed back the bikes and boarded a train to Vienna.
Finishing the trip in Austria’s beautiful capital with some sightseeing – and a few more beers – before flying home was a perfect end to an exhausting but rewarding getaway.
While you don’t need to be a regular cyclist to enjoy the holiday – and the route is mostly flat cycle paths – this is not a trip for the faint-hearted.
At the end of most days my legs would feel like lead, but as soon as my head hit the pillow, I’d be out like a light.
Yet somehow it was easier than expected to get up and go the next morning.
The Danube’s glorious scenery and fresh air seems to give you a little extra, ahem, wheelpower.
Inghams’ seven-night Treasures of the Danube, Passau to Vienna unescorted cycling tour is from £859pp for B&B basis (half-board add £132pp, full board add £188pp). Price includes Gatwick flights, transfers, threeand four-star hotels, bike hire, map, luggage service, three boat trips and a trip to the Pöstling mountain tram. Flights also from Heathrow and Manchester.
To make life easier, tour operator Inghams loads all your luggage into a van at the beginning of the day and takes it to the next hotel. A packed lunch is also provided each day.
Cycle paths are mostly flat with no traffic but beware of many more cyclists using them in the summer months.
You can bring your own bike or upgrade to an e-bike for £65pp. Helmet hire €32 (available in Passau or Vienna).