The Main River Cycle Path

Your cycling tour along the Main River begins in Bamberg, whose historic district was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site back in 1993. The cityscape, featuring over 1,000 historic buildings, is truly one of a kind! Did you know that Bamberg, like Rome, was built on seven hills? Be sure to take plenty of time to explore the medieval Imperial Cathedral, the Old Town Hall, and the New Residence. Afterward, you’ll have earned a freshly tapped beer at one of Bamberg’s eleven family-run breweries.

At the start of your first leg, follow the Regnitz River, which flows into the Main not far from the outskirts of Bamberg. Once you reach the Main Cycle Route, you’ll spot the first vineyards. You’ll pass through numerous small towns as you cycle through the expansive Hassberge Nature Park toward Schweinfurt. World-renowned inventions, including those related to the bicycle, originated in this port city on the Main.

Picturesque villages, vast vineyards, and expansive orchards line today’s stage of your bike tour along the Main. Between Volkach and Sommerach, the Main forms a large loop. According to local legend, the river liked it so much there that it didn’t want to flow any further. Here lies the Main Island, home to the largest contiguous vineyards in Wine Franconia, covering 750 hectares.

Undoubtedly, one of the highlights of today’s stage is Würzburg. The Marienberg Fortress towers high above this Baroque and cultural city. Take some time to visit a few of the many sights, such as the Old Main Bridge or St. Mary’s Chapel. Staying close to the riverbank, the well-maintained Main Cycle Path then leads you to the tranquil town of Veitshöchheim with its famous Rococo garden and the summer residence of the Würzburg bishops.

As you pass Karlstadt and its castle ruins, you’ll notice a slow but steady change in the landscape: instead of vineyards, shady forests now accompany you on your bike ride along the Main. In Lohr, with its picturesque old town, it’s worth taking a longer break. After strolling through the fishermen’s quarter and past the historic castle, treat yourself to a refreshment at one of the many cafés in the lively pedestrian zone.

Today, don’t just focus on the river—be sure to look up more often. Numerous castles, such as Wertheim Castle and Henneburg Castle in Stadtprozelten, will accompany you along the way. Nestled between the Spessart and Odenwald, you’ll arrive in Miltenberg. Discover the sights with their unusual names: Mikwe, Schnatterloch, Zauberhäuschen, and the Giant.

Accompanied by the ships on the river, you’ll cover the last few kilometers of your bike tour along the Main to Aschaffenburg. Even from a distance, the four towers of Johannisburg Castle will guide you on your way. Take advantage of your last day to leisurely explore the “Bavarian Nice.” Visit the Stiftsmuseum, the Pompejanum, Schöntal Park, and the Jewish Museum. You decide how you want to spend your last day.

After breakfast, your bike tour along the Main River comes to an end. If you’d like to stay a little longer, we’d be happy to extend your stay in Aschaffenburg.