The Rhine Cycle Route, also known as EuroVélo 15, links Switzerland to the Netherlands. In France, it crosses Alsace from south to north following the course of the River Rhine. To ride it is to discover this cross-border region, with its strong Germanic flavour.

With just 200 metres (650 ft) of elevation gain over three stages, the route follows the Alsatian rivers to the Rhine plain. With the Vosges on your left and the Black Forest on your right, you can admire these two mountain ranges throughout. Yet in this direction, the route is gradual and downhill.

Starting from Basel in Switzerland and after a brief incursion into Germany, you follow the Huningue canal, which leads you to Neuf-Brisach. You discover the beauty of the Alsatian villages, in particular that of the last commune built by Vauban. The second stage is straightforward, as you follow the Rhône-Rhine canal for most of the day. Your reward? Strasbourg and its pleasant surroundings, which you can enjoy in the evening. Finally, the third day discovers the north of Alsace through two beautiful nature reserves parallel to the Rhine: Robertsau and Wantzenau and the Sauer delta. Between these two islands of biodiversity, charming little villages line your route.

Basel in Switzerland and Lauterbourg in France both have a railway station with regional trains that accept bicycles. This means that it’s easy to reach this adventure and return home afterwards. The Rhine Cycle Route is well set up for cycle tourists and has all the necessary accommodation and refreshment facilities.

I recommend this route in spring or autumn. The Alsatian winter is sometimes harsh. It can cover the plain with a blanket of snow or make the cycle paths slippery. Summer is an option, but the sun often hits hard. The route doesn’t have much shade to protect you from the heat.

If you come in spring, you can enjoy seeing the villages of the region at their best. The inhabitants love to cover their beautiful half-timbered houses with gorgeous flower arrangements. Along the Rhine, the rivers, and the canals, you discover all the charm of Alsace.