A Triangle of Countries - Germany, Luxembourg & France

Day 1: Merzig - Schwemlingen

A warm welcome awaits you as you check in between 3:30 and 4 p.m. As you enjoy a complimentary beverage, you can get to know the fantastic crew and learn important information about the tour and the ship. At 4:30 p.m., the Merlijn sets off to Schwemlingen, a picturesque spot in the middle of nature. Your first dinner on board will be a treat, and you can then enjoy the first of several evening walks with your guide.

Day 2: Schwemlingen - Saarburg
20 miles/32 km

Your first bike tour will lead you through the captivating Saarland region, a fusion of water and land. Starting from Schwemlingen, it's just a scenic 5 km ride to the fabulous viewpoint at “Cloef,” where you can take a breather and soak in the breathtaking landscape and the meandering Saar loop. You then ride on to Saarburg, passing through the village of Mettlach, renowned for its Villeroy & Boch products. The charming cityscape of Saarburg will captivate you with its narrow alleys, delightful framework houses, elegant baroque architecture, and the historic homes of fishermen and sailors. The "Saarburg Wasserfall" (Saarburg Waterfall) is located in the heart of the town. The tower here provides a fantastic view of the waterfall and the picturesque Saar River Valley. You can enjoy another evening walk after a visit to a local museum and another wonderful dinner on board.

Day 3: Saarburg - Trier
13 miles/20 km

Your route winds downstream along the Saar River to Trier via Konz, where the Saar River joins the Moselle River. In the afternoon, you'll have the opportunity to explore this remarkable city with the guidance of a local expert. Trier, once the capital of the western part of the Roman Empire, boasts numerous remnants from this historical era, including the imposing city gateway known as the Porta Nigra and the well-preserved Roman Baths.

Day 4: Trier
36 miles/58 km

Today offers a departure from your typical bike and barge routine. The Merlijn will remain moored in Trier for an entire day, providing several enticing options. For those here mainly for the cycling thrills, get ready for an exceptional highlight on this journey! Unlike most routes that follow the river, today's path winds through the mountains and unspoiled nature, with the bonus of being mostly downhill. To make this happen, in the morning, you will take a bus with your bike into the mountains and then follow an old railway track, recently converted into a scenic bike path, leading you toward the Mosel. This exciting ride will occupy most of your day.

If you're seeking a more leisurely day or wish to explore culture and shopping opportunities, you are also in for a treat. You can leave your bike on board and stroll into Trier to savor all this city has to offer. Trier boasts a rich historical heritage, delightful shops, and numerous cozy terraces. Our guide will gladly assist you in planning your day. Tonight, dinner is at your own pace, and you can choose from one of the many inviting restaurants in the area.

Day 5: Trier - Wasserbillig - Remich
21 or 33 miles/34 or 52 km

After breakfast, you will kick off today's cycling adventure with two intriguing options:

You will start cycling from Trier if you're up for a longer ride. Alternatively, if you prefer a shorter route, you can sit back and relax as the Merlijn cruises to Wasserbillig, just beyond the border between Germany and Luxembourg.

For those opting for the shorter bike tour, your ride begins in Wasserbillig, where you'll pedal along the winding Moselle, heading towards Remich. After a satisfying dinner, a visit to a wine cellar is on the agenda to savor the distinct flavors of wines from the upper Mosel. These wines have unique characteristics, shaped by the region's geological features, setting them apart from the styles found in the middle Mosel region.

Day 6: Remich - Thionville - Metz
22 or 28 miles/35 or 44 km

Following yet another delightful breakfast on board, it's time to hop on your bikes once more. First up, Schengen, famous for the 'Schengen Agreement,' a landmark accord signed by five countries in 1985> This is well-known across Europe for facilitating hassle-free border crossings.

From here, your route leads into France. Your first stop is the fortress of Sierck-les-Bains, once a residence of the influential Dukes of Lorraine. Then, through quintessential French countryside: riparian landscapes, golden wheat fields, and charming villages, you reach Thionville, once a thriving steel industry center but now a historical city. The old town boasts medieval ramparts, delightful gardens, ancient streets, and the St. Maximin basilica, housing one of the world's finest organs.

In Thionville, you can rejoin the Merlijn or extend your ride to Richemont. Later in the afternoon, you'll enjoy a leisurely cruise along the French Moselle. After dinner, the ship arrives in Metz, another ancient city with a strategic location along a Roman trade route. Its cathedral ranks as the third-largest Gothic church in France, and Metz is replete with stunning architecture, vibrant floral displays, and inviting cafes. Be sure not to miss the Temple Neuf, a church that captivates from every angle.

Day 7: Metz - Pont-à-Mousson
22 miles/35 km

Today's ride takes you through the scenic French countryside once more. The exact route will be tailored to the biking proficiency of the group. You can opt for a mostly flat route that follows the tranquil Moselle River or a more challenging one that winds through the hills. Both paths lead you to the peaceful and serene town of Pont-à-Mousson, where the welcoming Merlijn will be waiting for your return.

Pont-à-Mousson has an industrial legacy, but it is also important to note that Pont-à-Mousson once housed a renowned Jesuit university, famous throughout Europe, which accounts for the town's remarkable architectural heritage.

Day 8: Pont-à-Mousson - Nancy - Frouard
29 miles/47 km

Today's destination is Nancy, where the historic city center boasts architectural treasures from the Middle Ages to the 18th century. Explore landmarks like the Nancy Cathedral, Triumphal Arch, and "Place de la Carriere," showcasing exquisite 18th-century design. The 'Place Stanislas' is renowned for its World Heritage buildings. Take in the city's charm with a visit to museums, shopping, or unwinding at an outdoor cafe. Afterward, pedal to the quaint town of Frouard, home to the docked Merlijn in the Nancy/Frouard harbor. Conclude your journey with a farewell dinner in the evening.

Day 9: Nancy/Frouard

After breakfast, it is time to say goodbye and continue your European trip, or leave for the airport.