Mainz to Merzig

Day 1: Arrival in Mainz - Cruise to Rüdesheim
Day 2: Rüdesheim - Oberwesel- Koblenz, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 3: Koblenz - Alken - Cochem, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 4: Cochem - Zell - Traben Trarbach, 23 mi. or extend to 34 mi. (36 km or extend to 55 km)
Day 5: Traben Trarbach - Bernkastel Kues - Trier, 24 mi. or extend to 31 mi. (38 km or extend to 50 km)
Day 6: Trier, 36 mi. (58 km)
Day 7: Trier - Saarburg, 16 mi. or 31 mi. (25 km or 50 km)
Day 8: Saarburg - Merzig, 20 mi (32 km)
Day 9: Departure

All distances are approximate. The itinerary is subject to change sometimes without prior notice.  Some waterways may be subject to occasional closures due to drought, storms, floods, canal or lock repairs, or other unforeseen circumstances that make navigation unsafe or impossible. The captain reserves the right to make any changes deemed necessary.

Day 1: Arrival in Mainz - Rüdesheim
The Merlijn will be moored in the city of Mainz. Embarkation starts at 3:30 pm. The crew will welcome you onboard and while you enjoy a complimentary drink you will get information about the ship, the tours, and the bicycles. Around 4:30 pm the Merlijn motors to Rüdesheim to anchor for the evening.  Before you board in Mainz, try to visit the Old Town, which is the pride and joy of the city scene. Broad, roomy squares, lovingly-restored half-timbered houses, and magnificent Baroque churches give the Old Town its charming, "gemuetliches" character. 

Day 2: Rüdesheim - Oberwesel- Koblenz, 25 mi. (40 km)
The Merlijn will set off at dawn to sail to Oberwesel. Today holds one of the highlights of your journey as you embark on the 'Romantic Rhine' cruise, adorned with tales of legends and crowned with majestic castles. Along the way, you'll pass the formidable 'Lorely' mountain, named after the mythical mermaid with golden hair; you may even catch a whisper of her haunting song as you sail by. Tonight, your resting place awaits in Koblenz, where the Rhine and Moselle rivers converge.

Day 3: Koblenz - Alken -  Cochem, 25 mi.  (40 km)
This morning, as you enjoy another delightful sailing breakfast, the Merlijn will gracefully navigate upstream along the picturesque Moselle River towards Alken where you begin your exhilarating biking adventure to Moselkern.

Pedaling into the enchanting Elztal, you'll encounter the majestic Eltz Castle perched dramatically atop a cliff, a resilient testament to history as one of the rare fortresses never to have succumbed to destruction. Following this awe-inspiring visit, your journey continues on two wheels towards Cochem, where Merlijn eagerly awaits your return. In Cochem, the possibilities are endless – from exploring the iconic Reichsburg Castle to leisurely strolling the charming streets of this idyllic and romantic city.

Day 4: Cochem - Zell - Traben Trarbach, 23 mi. or extend to 34 mi. (36 km or extend to 55 km)
After breakfast, your day's cycling adventure kicks off in Cochem, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey with the quaint village of Beilstein as your initial destination. Its medieval charm is on full display as you wander through its perfectly preserved streets, steeped in history and character.

You continue cycling the meandering path of the Moselle River to Zell, renowned for its legendary 'Zeller Schwarze Katz' vineyard. Here, at this picturesque stop, you're presented with two options: Board the Merlijn for a scenic cruise to Traben Trarbach or extend your cycling, by pedaling your way towards Traben Trarbach.

Day 5: Traben Trarbach - Bernkastel Kues - Trier, 24 mi. or extend to 31 mi. (38 km or extend to 50 km)
Following a delightful cruising breakfast, your cycling itinerary will trace the scenic banks of the Moselle, leading you to your first captivating stop: Bernkastel-Kues. Here you can Meander its charming streets and explore Germany's oldest marketplace.

You then continue cycling to Neumagen where you can decide to either board the Merlijn or extend your cycling to Mehring.

Mehring holds a special place in history as the very spot where the Romans first set foot, enamored by the breathtaking landscape over 2000 years ago. Amidst the remnants of their splendid rural villas, those who extended their cycling rejoin the Merlijn and those onboard to embark on a serene cruise towards Trier. As the day draws to a close, anticipate another sumptuous dinner served onboard, ensuring your evening is as memorable as the day's adventures.

Day 6: Trier, 36 mi. (58 km)
Today holds a unique twist in store for you aboard the Merlijn, diverging from the typical bike and barge routine. Rather than setting sail, you anchored in Trier for a full day, offering an array of options to suit your desires.

If you're an avid cyclist seeking thrills, get ready for an extraordinary adventure. While most routes follow the riverbanks, today's journey takes you through majestic mountains and untouched nature, with exhilarating downhill trails for the majority of the way. Your day begins with a bus ride into the mountains with your bike, followed by a scenic ride along a converted railroad line, leading back to the Mosel. This exciting ride will occupy much of your day.

For those craving relaxation and cultural immersion, leave your bike onboard and step into Trier for a leisurely day. Explore the city's rich history, browse its charming shops, and unwind at one of its inviting terraces. Your guide is available to assist you in planning your day for maximum enjoyment.

Day 7: Trier - Saarburg, 16 mi. or 31 mi. (25 km or 50 km)
You can further explore Trier in the morning with a knowledgeable local guide to unveil the city's treasures. Trier, once the seat of power for the Western Roman Empire, boasts a rich history, highlighted by iconic landmarks such as the imposing city gateway, Porta Nigra.

In the afternoon, saddle up for a scenic cycling excursion to Saarburg. The cityscape of Saarburg is a picturesque blend of narrow alleys, half-timbered houses, and elegant Baroque architecture, interspersed with vibrant fishing cottages and mariners' dwellings. Notably, the renowned architect Karl Friedrich Schinkel bestowed upon the romantic ensemble of houses and quaint bridges in the Buttermarkt the endearing moniker 'Little Venice' during the 19th century.

Day 8: Saarburg - Merzig, 20 mi (32 km)
Following a captivating tour of Saarburg and a breathtaking vista overlooking the city and the Saar valley, your journey continues with a scenic cycle of approximately 15 km to the renowned Saar loop near Orscholz. This iconic river bend, more than any other, embodies the essence of a "rendezvous in Saarland": a harmonious convergence of water and land. At the majestic "Cloef" viewpoint above, you have an unparalleled panorama, beckoning you to linger awhile. Depending on the group's preference and cycling prowess, you can opt to pedal or hike up to this scenic overlook.

En route to today's final destination, consider a delightful excursion to the charming village of Villeroy & Boch: Mettlach. In Merzig, it's time to bid adieu to the Merlijn as you embark on your final journey. This evening you enjoy a farewell dinner onboard, perhaps followed by a leisurely post-dinner stroll through the city.

Day 9: Departure
Disembarkation after breakfast.

Looking for more?  View all of our featured bike & barge tours, or view our full list of bike trips.

• Merlijn

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  Deluxe Class Barge

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