Rhine Valley Cycle Route from Bregenz Harbour to Feldkirch

From Bregenz Harbour to Feldkirch's old town, this cycle tour of around 46.8 kilometres links Lake Constance with the riverside landscapes of the Vorarlberg Rhine Valley. Lakeside paths, open embankments, the Old Rhine and green floodplains shape the varied journey southwards. With approximately 120 metres of ascent, the route is predominantly flat. It is not particularly demanding technically, although the distance calls for a basic level of fitness. Places to swim and rest beside the water, together with Feldkirch's historic centre, make it especially appealing to leisure cyclists.

The tour starts at Bregenz Harbour on Lake Constance and finishes in the centre of Feldkirch.

By public transport

Bus stop at the start: Bregenz Hafen Bahnhof

Bus stop at the finish: Feldkirch Busplatz

Train station at the start: Bregenz Hafen

Train station at the finish: Feldkirch railway station

Bregenz Harbour is accessible by train and bus. From the centre of Feldkirch, the railway station can be reached by bicycle or local bus. Trains run from there back to Bregenz. Bicycle carriage is subject to the relevant railway conditions and available space, so please check suitable connections in advance.

Travelling by train and bus allows you to start the route without searching for a parking space.

Plan your journey at vmobil.at

By car

Follow the A14 motorway to the Bregenz exit, then travel through the Citytunnel and follow signs for the harbour or Reichsstraße. The starting point at Bregenz Harbour is a short distance away.

Parking

The recommended option is Parkhaus Bregenz am Hafen, Reichsstraße 1, 6900 Bregenz. This official car park is very close to the starting point. Parking charges apply; please observe local parking rules and time restrictions.

The cycling route leads from Bregenz harbour along the shores of Lake Constance to Hard.It continues from Hard along the Rhine embankment to Lustenau. The cycle path then follows the Alte Rhein (Old Rhine) to Hohenems.It continues upstream along the Rhine and passes the large Erholungszentrum Rheinauen (Leisure Centre) in Hohenems, the Sportplatz Mäder (Sports Ground), the Zollamt Koblach (Customs Office) and the Zollhaus Meiningen (Customs House). Passing quarry lakes, the Waldbad Feldkirch (Swimming Baths) and the Waldcampingplatz (Camping Site), the cycle path leads directly into the town centre of Feldkirch.

A roadworthy touring or trekking bike is suitable for the predominantly flat route; an e-bike can also be used. Recommended items include a cycle helmet, clothing suitable for the weather, protection against wind and sun, sufficient drinking water, a small repair kit and a bicycle lock. Pack swimwear and a towel if you would like to stop for a swim at Lake Constance or the Old Rhine.

On lakeside and embankment paths, be considerate towards pedestrians, other cyclists and people enjoying the area. Watch for other traffic in built-up areas, at road crossings and near access roads. Adjust your speed, particularly around busy bathing and rest areas.

Exposed stretches beside the Rhine can be windy and offer little shade in sunny weather. In wet conditions, watch out for damp or dirty sections of path. Plan sufficient drinking breaks and use only permitted routes through natural areas and along the riverbanks.

The shores of Lake Constance, the Old Rhine and the Rhine floodplains are inviting places to stop beside the water. In suitable weather, designated bathing areas also provide opportunities for a refreshing swim. Please respect protected stretches of shoreline and follow local bathing guidance.

Places to eat can be found in Bregenz, in the settlements along the route for example "Gasthof am Rohr" and in Feldkirch. In Feldkirch, the ride can be combined with a walk through the old town or a visit to Schattenburg Castle. Returning by train is a convenient option; check the arrangements for taking bicycles on board before travelling.