The Most Beautiful Stage on the Rhine Cycle Path: Through the Middle Rhine Valley from Bingen to Koblenz
The Rhine Cycle Route (EuroVelo 15) follows the river from its source in the Alps to the North Sea. One of the most impressive sections, however, is located in the heart of Germany: the Upper Middle Rhine Valley between Bingen and Koblenz. Over approximately 65 kilometers, you can expect steep vineyards, medieval castles, and spectacular views – a stage that is hard to surpass in terms of scenery.
Why is this section considered the most beautiful?
UNESCO World Heritage
The Upper Middle Rhine Valley is part of the UNESCO World Heritage and is characterized by castles, palaces, and historic sites.
Wine Landscape
Vines steeply climb the slopes and shape the image of the region.
History to Touch
Numerous castles such as Rheinstein Castle, Sooneck Castle, or Marksburg Castle tower above the river.
Well-Developed Cycle Path
Mostly flat and runs directly along the shore.
The Route in Detail
Start: Bingen am Rhein
The stage begins in Bingen, where the Nahe River flows into the Rhine. From here, you have a direct view of the Mouse Tower and the vineyards of the Rheingau. Just a few kilometers in, the narrow valley begins with its distinctive rocks.
Highlights along the way:
Rüdesheim am Rhein
Famous for the Drosselgasse and the cable car to the Niederwalddenkmal with a panorama over the Rhine Valley.
Loreley Rock
The most famous viewpoint on the Rhine. A short detour up is worth it for the grand view of the river bend.
St. Goar and St. Goarshausen
Two charming towns located opposite each other on the Rhine, with Rheinfels Castle and Loreley nearby.
Braubach
Historical place with the well-preserved Marksburg – the only never-destroyed hill castle on the Middle Rhine.
Destination: Koblenz
At the Deutsches Eck in Koblenz, the Rhine meets the Moselle. The promenade, the old town, and the Ehrenbreitstein fortress form a worthy conclusion to this stage.
Route Information
Length: approx. 65 km
Profile: Mostly flat, with some short climbs during town passages or detours
Surface: Paved bike paths and quiet riverside roads
Travel Time: 4–6 hours including breaks
Tips for Your Tour
Best Travel Time: May to October, especially charming in late summer during the grape harvest
Plan Detours: Viewpoints like the Loreley offer spectacular perspectives
Accommodation: In Boppard or St. Goar, the stage can also be split over two days
Return Trip: Regular regional trains operate along the Rhine from Koblenz
Rhine Romance on Two Wheels
The stage from Bingen to Koblenz combines everything that makes the Rhine Cycle Path so special: spectacular landscapes, history, wine, and relaxed bike paths. If you only want to ride a section, you'll find the heart of the Rhine route here – impressive, varied, and unforgettable.
