EuroVelo 15 - Rhine Cycle Route - From the source of the river to Basel - official route

This part of the EuroVelo 15 Rhine Cycle Route consists of the first two segments of the route. The travel begins at the village of Andermatt in Switzerland near the source of the river Rhine. From there all along the Rhine river, through picturesque valleys, forests and charming Swiss villages, around Lake Constance all the way to the city of Basel. Along the way, you can visit places such as Chur, the oldest town in Switzerland, Schaffhausen near the beautiful Rhine Falls and well-preserved medieval town of Stein am Rhein.

What is the EuroVelo 15 Cycle route?

EuroVelo 15 Rhine Cycle Route is a long-distance cycling route divided into seven smaller sections. It stretches approximately 1,500 kilometers along the River Rhine, from its source in the Swiss Alps to its mouth to the North Sea in the Netherlands. The entire route passes through four countries: Switzerland, France, Germany, and the Netherlands, offering cyclists a diverse and picturesque journey through Europe. It is suitable for a wide range of cyclists, from families with childeren to experienced travellers. Whether you're looking for leisurely rides through charming villages or more challenging sections through varied terrains, this route offers something for everyone.

How long is this section of the route?

The total lenght of the first two segments of EuroVelo 15 Rhine Cycle Route, from Andermatt to the city of Basel, is approximately 430 kilometers. The route is well marked and runs almost entirely on designated cyclist lanes isolated from car traffic, with some sections taking place in general traffic and on public roads. It is mostly covered with asphalt, sometimes with gravel, making it accessible for cyclists of all skill levels.

How long does it take to complete the route?

Trip length may vary depending on the cycling pace, daily distances and number of rest days. Cyclists typically complete this section of the route in 5 to 9 days, covering between 50 to 90 kilometers per day. With well-marked and well-maintained paths, unique attractions and various towns on the way, this route is very flexible for trip planning. You can divide the route into stages according to your own preferences, planning your time to enjoy the sights and experiences along the route.

Is this route difficult or accessible to families with children?

The EuroVelo 15 Rhine Cycle Route, is widely regarded as an very accessible and family-friendly cycling route. Most of the route is on flat and easy terrain, on designated cycle paths or roads with little traffic, and mostly paved. The route passes through beautiful, historic Swiss towns, castles, cultural landmarks and Alpine landscapes. Along the route, families can find playgrounds, parks, and recreational areas. This makes it suitable for families with children and cyclists of all ages and skill levels seeking a unforgettable experience and cycling adventure.

Attractions along the route

Andermatt

The village on the source of the river Reuss and near the source of the Rhine, surrounded by the Alps. Attractions worth seeing here are:



Ursern Valley Museum - located in an old patrician house built in 1786. This museum exhibits the local domestic culture, valley and cultural history, tourism, military, Alpine fauna and the career of Bernhard Russi, a skiing legend from Andermatt.



Sasso San Gottardo Fortress - long ago a top-secret military fortress built to defend Switzerland, now a museum. This underground defense structure offers a unique inside into the country's military history, while being one of the largest, most magnificent underground defense structures available to turists.



The Gotthard Tunnel - railway tunnel, the first tunnel running through the Saint-Gotthard Massif in order to bypass the St. Gotthard Pass, which has been an important historic route from northern and southern Switzerland since the 12th century. Now visitors can explore the old road and learn about its importance in Swiss history.

Chur

Allegedly the oldest town in Switzerland, with narrow alleys, buildings cover with frescoed, and Roman ruins. The main attractions worth seeing are:



Chur Cathedral - also known as the Cathedral of the Assumption of Mary, one of the most significant cultural monuments of Switzerland, build in 12th-century.



Old Town - with Arcas Square rich in medieval architecture, entirely car-free, with plenty of cafes, restaurants and bars.



Roman excavations - in the Welschdörfli district, the excavations are presented in a protective building designed by local architect Peter Zumthor.

Sargans

Historic town known for its 12th century castle. Once an important part of the region's history, it now houses the Sarganserland, a regional museum. Definitely worth seeing, along with the old town of Sargans and the Gonzen iron ore mine mining museum and underground restaurant.

Lake Constance (German: Bodensee)

The cycling route runs along the picturesque freshwater lake bordering with three countries: Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. It is a popular destination for both recreation and outdoor activities. The lake is perfect for sailing, windsurfing, and swimming, especially during the warmer months. Several towns around the lake have waterside resorts and beaches perfect for relaxation and water activities, as well as high-quality restaurants and family-owned wineries.

Kreuzlingen

It is a city located on the shores of Lake Constance, with its 16th-century Seeburg Castle, known as one of Switzerland's national heritage site. Although the castle itself is not open to visitors, its surrounding park offers lovely views of the lake and is a popular spot for relaxation and leisurely walks.

Stein am Rhein

It is a historic town, famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture. Attractions worth seeing while being here are:



Old Town - characterised by timber-framed houses decoreted with vibrant frescoes, some dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries. The medieval town centre has preserved its ancient street layout to this day.



Hohenklingen Castle - is on the list of Swiss heritage of national significance. Situated above the town it offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding landscapes.



St. George's Abbey - a Benedictine monastery located on the banks of the Rhine, founded in 1007. It is also included on the list of Swiss heritage sites of national significance.



Rhine Promenade - perfect for walking, cycling, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

The Rhine Falls

Is the most powerful waterfall with the highest water flow in Europe. You can admire it from the Laufen Castle, which towers over the waterfall, or from the viewing terraces on the right bank, in the town of Neuhausen, or get on one of the small cruise ships that sail as close to the waterfall as possible.

Basel

City with a vibrant cultural, situated on the banks of the Rhine River, bordering with Germany and France. Attractions worth seeing here are:



The Kunstmuseum Basel - another Swiss monument of national significance on the route. Considered the most important museum of art in Switzerland, housing works from the Renaissance to the modern period.



The Basel Town Hall - a 500-year-old building, with quite unusual colours and decorations, located on the central Marktplatz square. The symbol of the city of Basel.



Old Town - a beautiful area with cobbled streets, medieval buildings and the Cathedral Hill with the cathedral and a viewing terrace behind it, overlooking the Rhine.



There are also about 40 museums in the city, so you have to decide for yourself whether and which ones to visit.