A day out on the Middle Moselle
Moselle Cycle Path: cycle rides from Ürzig and Graach
Cycling lets you discover the Middle Moselle at your own pace. The Moselle Cycle Path links river scenery and winegrowing villages – giving you the choice of a short ride or a longer day trip during your holiday.
Moselle riverbank · Starting points in Ürzig and Graach
The Moselle Cycle Path at a glance
The official tourism website describes the Moselle Cycle Path as a quality cycle route covering 248 kilometres between Perl and Koblenz, divided into ten stages. Of course, you do not have to cycle the entire route during your stay on the Middle Moselle. Ürzig and Graach are ideal starting points for exploring individual sections along the river.
According to the official description, the route is mostly level, mainly follows surfaced paths and is largely separate from motor traffic. This makes the riverside route a different kind of exercise from walking high above the vineyards. It does not, however, mean that the route is completely free of gradients or traffic everywhere.
Plan a day's ride to suit your pace
Start planning by asking yourself how much time you really want to spend in the saddle. For a relaxed holiday outing, choose a nearby village or town as your turning point and return along the same riverside path. If you want to cover more ground, choose a more distant destination and allow for the return journey too.
Bernkastel-Kues or the neighbouring winegrowing villages can make worthwhile stops along the way. The exact distance depends on your holiday home, where you join the route, which riverbank you choose and any detours. Use the official map rather than relying on a general daily distance. Include breaks, a stroll around town and a stop for refreshments in your schedule too.
Signposting, crossing the river and current notices
The main route is signposted in white and green. According to the tourism website, you can cycle along both banks for much of the Moselle. This gives you plenty of choice, but crossings will not necessarily be available exactly where you need them during your ride. Use the current map to identify bridges and suitable connections.
Check the official route notices before setting off. Restrictions may mean changing your plans, for example if a section cannot be cycled as expected. Bring water, sun protection and a charged phone. If you plan to return by public transport, also check whether bicycles are permitted and under what conditions.
A more challenging alternative: Graacher Schanzen
If you are looking for a more challenging ride, the Graacher Schanzen circular route offers an alternative to the mostly level riverside path. The official description gives a distance of just under 30 kilometres and a substantial, sustained climb out of the Moselle Valley. This circuit should therefore not be confused with a leisurely ride beside the river.
Consider your fitness, experience and bicycle when deciding whether this high-level circuit suits your day's plans. An e-bike can help, but does not replace confident riding skills or the need to plan your battery reserve. Families and mixed-ability groups should agree beforehand whether everyone wants to ride the same route. If in doubt, a shorter riverside outing is the more flexible choice.
Good to know
- How long is the entire Moselle Cycle Path?
- The official route information gives a distance of 248 kilometres from Perl to Koblenz and describes ten stages.
- Can I cycle just a short section?
- Yes. Choose a manageable turning point and use the official map to calculate the outward and return distances. Detours and river crossings will affect the length.
- Is the Graacher Schanzen route as flat as the riverside path?
- No. The circular route is just under 30 kilometres long and includes a substantial, sustained climb, making it the more challenging alternative.
