Mainz to Merzig Along the Rhine, Moselle & Saar Rivers

Day 1: Arrival in Merzig and cruise to Saarburg

Board the Merlijn in the afternoon as the journey begins. Savor a welcome beverage while meeting the crew and receiving an introduction to the route, along with a safety briefing. Following dinner, enjoy an evening walk through Saarburg, a picturesque town featuring winding streets, charming half-timbered houses, and a breathtaking view of the Saar Valley.

Day 2: Saarburg - Trier
19 - 22 mi. / 30 - 35 km

Pedal along the Saar River, heading downstream to Trier, where the Saar merges with the Moselle at Konz. Join a guided exploration of Trier, taking in landmarks such as the imposing Porta Nigra - an ancient Roman city gate - and the historic Roman Baths.

Day 3: Trier
34 - 37 mi. / 55 - 60 km

Spend a full day in Trier with two choices: embark on a cycling excursion through undulating landscapes, starting with a morning transfer into the hills before coasting along a scenic, gently descending bike route, or opt for a relaxed day discovering Trier’s rich past, browsing boutiques, and enjoying local cafés.

Day 4: Trier - Mehring - Bernkastel - Traben-Trarbach
25 - 28 mi. / 40 - 45 km

Cruise to Mehring, where the day’s cycling adventure begins in a region cherished by the Romans for millennia. Pass through Neumagen-Drohn before reaching Bernkastel-Kues, home to beautifully preserved timber-framed houses encircling one of Europe’s oldest marketplaces. Conclude the day with a wine tasting at Storck Winery in Traben-Trarbach.

Day 5: Traben-Trarbach - Zell - Cochem
25 - 28 mi. / 40 - 45 mi. or extend to 40 - 43 mi. / 65 - 70 km

For early risers, an optional extended morning ride is available before the main cycling route begins in Zell, famed for its Zeller Schwarze Katz vineyards. Ride along the Moselle, pausing in picturesque towns such as Alf, Sankt Aldegund (renowned for its wines, liqueurs, and regional mustards), Bremm, and Beilstein before reaching Cochem, where the Merlijn will be waiting.

Day 6: Cochem - Koblenz
25 - 28 mi. / 40 - 45 km + Hike (2 mi. / 3 km

Cycle from Cochem into the serene Eltztal Valley, where you'll leave your bike to embark on a hike to Eltz Castle, a remarkably well-preserved medieval stronghold. After touring the castle, resume biking towards Koblenz, where the Merlijn will be moored.

Day 7: Koblenz - Rüdesheim
19 - 22 mi. / 30 - 35 km

Enjoy breakfast while gliding through the enchanting Middle Rhine, passing the storied Loreley Rock. Begin cycling in Oberwesel, tracing the Rhine Gorge to Bingen before taking a ferry across to Rüdesheim, famous for its lively Drosselgasse alley. A scenic cable car ride is available for those seeking panoramic views of the Rhine Valley.

Day 8: Rüdesheim - Mainz
22 - 25 mi. / 35 - 40 km

Pedal along the Rhine, passing through Oestrich-Winkel and Eltville, both known for their vineyards and stunning riverside scenery. Stop to indulge in a classic Berliner pastry before reaching Mainz, the capital of Rhineland-Palatinate, where you’ll explore the Old Town’s grand Baroque churches and historic squares. Celebrate the journey with a farewell dinner onboard.

Day 9: Departure from Mainz

Following breakfast, disembark and continue your European adventure or travel home.

Day 1: Arrival in Mainz and cruise to Rüdesheim

Check in during the afternoon as the Merlijn makes its way toward Rüdesheim, where you’ll dock for the night. Sip a welcome drink while meeting the crew, followed by a safety briefing and a delightful dinner on board. Later, take an evening stroll through the picturesque town nestled along the Rhine.

Day 2: Rüdesheim - Koblenz
19-22 mi. / 30-35 km

Embark on your first cycling adventure along the enchanting Rhine, passing historic fortresses, rolling vineyards, and the legendary Loreley Rock. In the afternoon, rejoin the Merlijn for a scenic sail to Koblenz, a charming city where the Moselle and Rhine rivers converge, and settle in for an overnight stay.

Day 3: Koblenz - Cochem
25-28 mi. / 40-45 km + Hike (2 mi. / 3 km

As you enjoy breakfast, cruise past the initial locks of the Moselle before beginning a ride through the lush Eltztal Valley. Take a short hike up to Eltz Castle, an impeccably preserved medieval stronghold. Continue cycling to Cochem, where you can explore Reichsburg Castle or wander through the town’s romantic alleys.

Day 4: Cochem - Zell - Traben-Trarbach
22-25 mi. / 35-40 km

Pedal along the Moselle, pausing in Beilstein, a storybook village untouched by time. Ride onward to Zell, known for its famous Zeller Schwarze Katz wines, before boarding the Merlijn for an afternoon cruise. Cap off the day with an elegant wine tasting at the renowned Storck Winery.

Day 5: Traben-Trarbach - Trier
22-25 mi. / 35-40 km or extend to 31-34 mi. / 50-55 km

Following a leisurely breakfast cruise, cycle along the Moselle, stopping in Bernkastel-Kues, home to Germany’s most historic marketplace. Choose to board early for a relaxing sail or extend your ride to Mehring, where the Romans first established settlements along the Moselle. Later, rejoin the Merlijn for a cruise to Trier and enjoy a gourmet dinner on board.

Day 6: Trier - Saarburg
19-22 mi. / 30-35 km

Start the morning with a guided exploration of Trier, where you’ll discover the Porta Nigra and other impressive Roman relics. In the afternoon, cycle to Saarburg, a delightful town of timber-framed houses, elegant Baroque buildings, and vibrant fishing cottages, often dubbed ‘Little Venice’ for its scenic canals and bridges.

Day 7: Saarburg - Merzig
19-22 mi. / 30-35 km + Hike (2 mi. / 3 km

Begin the day cycling towards the breathtaking Saar Loop near Orscholz, the most iconic river bend in the Saarland region. Take a short hike or ride up to the Cloef viewpoint, where sweeping panoramas await. Continue onward to Mettlach, home to the historic headquarters of Villeroy & Boch, before reaching Merzig for a celebratory farewell dinner.

Day 8: Departure from Merzig

Enjoy a final breakfast on board before disembarking. Whether continuing your European travels or heading to the airport, depart with cherished memories of your journey.