Grand Tour, Romantic Road and Castles

Germany

Grand Tour, Romantic Road and Castles

Germany

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21 Day Self-Guided Tour

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Self Guided Germany: Grand Tour, Romantic Road, and Castles|21|21|8895|7895|6295

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Ride six countries in Eastern Europe, from Slovakia’s Tatra Mountains to Germany’s Harz Mountains, through stunning landscapes and cultural gems.
Over six countries, 3,700 miles and three weeks on the road, this tour immerses you in a rich tapestry of European cultures, landscapes and cuisines. From the dense forests and sweeping bends of the Harz Mountains to Poland’s cobblestone mediaeval towns, the dizzying heights of the Tatra Mountains, to Bavarian Romantic Road, this tour is jam-packed with incredible tarmac, lessons from history, and castles whose walls tell stories from hundreds of years gone by.
  • Self Guided Tour
  • 21 Days
  • 3700 miles
  • Harwich, UK
  • HIRE BIKE AVAILABLE
BEST TIME TO GO

May to October

Our European adventure kicks off at the ferry in Harwich. As you get your first taste of the magical roads of Central Europe, we pass the historic Möhne Dam—famously targeted during the Dambusters raid in WWII—before heading to our first overnight stop in Brilon, part of the famed Sauerland region, which attracts motorcyclists from across the country.

Neuschwanstein Castle

From here, we head towards the stunning Harz Mountains, one of Germany’s top motorcycling regions. With three nights at the same hotel, there’s ample time to enjoy thrilling stretches of tarmac that snake through rugged peaks, thick forests, and enchanting fairy-tale towns. We’ll ride the famous Kyffhäuser curves and stop at quirky biker haunts like the Harzer Bikeschmiede Museum, home to unusual bikes, including a 38-litre Panzer-engine motorcycle!

Our journey continues towards Colditz Castle, where a guided tour reveals its fascinating wartime history as a high-security POW camp. Crossing the border into Poland, we traverse local biker routes through fast-changing landscapes, watching the architecture grow more distinctive and the surroundings more dramatic as we approach the Slovakian border. Poland’s charm lies in its contrasts—cobbled streets in medieval towns, fast-flowing rural roads, and hearty local cuisine like pierogi, perfect for refuelling after a long day on the bike.

In Slovakia, we ride through the astonishing Mala Fatra National Park before reaching Orava Castle, perched high above the river and widely regarded as the inspiration for Dracula’s castle—many of the scenes from the 1922 film were shot here! The roads through the Tatra Mountains offer an unforgettable riding experience, with sweeping alpine curves and jaw-dropping views of snow-capped peaks and lush meadows. A stop at the charming village of Lucky, with its heritage waterfall, is a hidden gem along the route. Just Google these mountains—you’ll see why they’re a highlight!

Leaving the dramatic peaks of the Tatra Mountains behind, we ride south into Austria, where the scenery transforms into picture-perfect alpine landscapes. Our route takes us along idyllic mountain roads and through charming Austrian villages, with the opportunity to visit Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest, a historic mountain-top retreat offering jaw-dropping views of the surrounding Alps. Built as a gift for Hitler’s 50th birthday, the Eagle’s Nest sits atop a 1,834m peak and offers a fascinating glimpse into history.

Crossing back into Germany, we reach Füssen, the gateway to the legendary Bavarian Romantic Road–a scenic route, originally established in the 1950s, which follows ancient trade paths and connects picturesque medieval towns, castles, and churches. Here, the twin fairy-tale castles of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau, set against lush forests and jagged mountain peaks, provide an unforgettable day of the tour. These magnificent castles, which inspired countless stories and legends, are a must-see for history buffs and architecture lovers.

As we follow the Romantic Road northwards, we visit beautifully preserved medieval towns such as Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Nördlingen. In Rothenburg, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time, with half-timbered houses and narrow streets enclosed by ancient city walls. In Nördlingen, we stop at the Meteor Crater Museum, which reveals how a massive impact millions of years ago shaped the town and its surroundings. Riding further along the Romantic Road, we pass more medieval towns and ornate churches, each a testament to Bavaria’s rich cultural legacy, before reaching Rhineland. Our forest hotel near Koblenz, surrounded by peaceful woodlands, offers the perfect place to relax.

On our penultimate day, we journey back through Germany to reach the ferry. Along the way, we stop at a legendary motorsport venue—the Nürburgring. Known as “The Green Hell,” it’s one of the most challenging and iconic circuits in the world, featuring 73 corners and nearly 21 km of twisting tarmac through dense forest. After three weeks of incredible roads, castles, and cultural experiences, you'll return with unforgettable memories and stories to tell!

Ride through the best landscapes in Central Europe this year. Book today!

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Tour highlights

Six Countries: Ride across borders into six captivating countries, each offering its own blend of culture and scenery. Glide through the lush forests of Belgium, wind through Austria’s alpine passes, and marvel at Slovakia’s Tatra Mountains. This is a true pan-European adventure, brimming with diverse landscapes.

Bavarian Romantic Road: Follow the famous Bavarian Romantic Road, where charming medieval towns like Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Nördlingen transport you to another era. Explore Harburg Castle and walk the 13th-century walls that encircle Nördlingen.

Historical Castles: Step into history at Colditz Castle, famed for WWII escape attempts, and Orava Castle, perched high above the river. Don’t miss the iconic twin castles of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau, which inspired Disney’s legendary castle design.

Unique Cathedrals and Churches: Admire architectural masterpieces like the White Church of Steingaden, a stunning Rococo gem set against lush Bavarian scenery. Discover Nördlingen’s St. George’s Church, crafted entirely from meteorite rock, and marvel at Bamberg’s magnificent cathedral.

Iconic Biker Roads: Ride Europe’s best biker routes, from the twisty forest roads of Eifel National Park to the thrilling hairpins of the Kyffhäuser Monument. Cruise through the dense Ardennes Forest and tackle Slovakia’s best in the Tatra Mountains.

Visit Historic Landmarks and Unique Attractions: Visit iconic sites like the Nürburgring and Spa-Francorchamps circuits, and stand at the Möhne Dam, the target of the famous Dambusters raid. Head up to Hitler’s infamous Eagle’s Nest or explore unique stops like the Dachau Memorial Site and BMW World.

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99.7 % Overall
100 % Would recommend

Speak to a tour specialist to start planning your holiday….

Speak to a tour specialist to start planning your holiday….

Tour Map / Itinerary

Full Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival

Take the overnight ferry from Harwich. If you're renting a bike, you'll collect in near London earlier this day.

Day 2 170 Miles

Visit the famous Möhne Dam, then enjoy a lakeside coffee at Möhnesee before reaching Brilon’s old town.

Day 3 150 Miles

Ride through central Germany’s countryside, crossing into the Harz Mountains. Arrive in Braunlage for a two-night stay in a forest-surrounded hotel.

Day 4 120 Miles

Explore the Harz Mountains, including the famous Kyffhäuser curves and a visit to the quirky Harzer Bikeschmiede Motorcycle Museum.

Day 5 80 Miles

Optional rideout to explore more of the Harz region, including the aviation museum in Wernigerode. Enjoy a relaxed evening back in Braunlage.

Day 6 170 Miles

Ride the B242 road to Colditz. Take a guided tour of Colditz Castle, then continue to your hotel in Großschirma.

Day 7 200 Miles

Cross the border into Poland, riding local favourite routes through scenic countryside to the historic city of Wroclaw for the night.

Day 8 160 Miles

Ride south through Poland, passing through scenic forests and picturesque towns. Stop for lunch in Gliwice’s historic square before ending the day at a charming mountain-style hotel near Łodygowice.

Day 9 120 Miles

Cross into Slovakia and ride through Mala Fatra National Park. Visit Orava Castle—believed to be the inspiration for Dracula’s castle—before heading into the Tatra Mountains and arriving at a luxury spa hotel in Zakopane.

Day 10 180 Miles

Spend the day riding through Slovakia’s stunning Lower Tatra National Park. Enjoy mountain roads, forest scenery, and coffee stops in charming villages before returning to your hotel in Zakopane.

Day 11 190 Miles

Ride through Slovakia’s scenic countryside, following routes recommended by local bikers. Stop for lunch in a forest restaurant and finish the day at a 17th-century manor house hotel in Orlové.

Day 12 210 Miles

Start with a fast motorway section through Slovakia before crossing into Austria. Ride scenic backroads through Austrian hills and end the day at a family-run hotel in Sankt Aegyd.

Day 13 170 Miles

Ride two national parks, mountain roads, and scenic gorges. Stop at a popular biker hangout for lunch before reaching your hotel near Berchtesgaden, with an optional visit to Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest.

Day 14 150 Miles

Cross from Austria into Germany, following scenic Tyrolean roads. Visit the pedestrian town of Murnau am Staffelsee before arriving at your hotel in Füssen, close to King Ludwig’s fairy-tale castles.

Day 15 Explore Day

Enjoy a day off with the option of rideouts to explore Bavaria’s highlights, including King Ludwig’s castles, the BMW Museum, or Dachau.

Day 16 130 Miles

Ride the southern section of the Romantic Road, filled with beautifully preserved medieval towns, colourful buildings, and stunning churches.

Day 17 105 Miles

Choose between a scenic rideout or a day exploring Nördlingen, a medieval walled city built inside a meteor crater, complete with a fascinating crater museum.

Day 18 140 Miles

Continue along the northern section of the Romantic Road, with more medieval towns, charming squares, and impressive churches to explore.

Day 19 200 Miles

Ride across Germany, passing through scenic countryside and forests before arriving at a forest hotel outside Koblenz.

Day 20 200 Miles

A final day of fantastic roads leads us back to through Germany and onto the ferry home or Frankfurt to return our bikes.

Day 21 Departure

Head home from Harwich with unforgettable memories of an incredible tour. If you're renting a bike, you'll return it after departing the ferry back near London.

What's included
If you select motorcycle rental, insurance and breakdown cover is included.
18 nights’ accommodation in high-quality hotels.
Departure and return ferry ticket, with cabins on board.
Excellent breakfast each morning.
Full use of all hotels’ leisure facilities.
Detailed route plans and maps.
GPS routes (Garmin / Tom Tom).
Detailed daily itinerary including sights and suggested coffee / lunch stops.
What's not
Fuel.
Toll charges.
Admission charges.
Occasional hotel parking charges.
Meals and drinks.
Travel and medical insurance.
Flights.

Full Pricing

Bike Option Single Rider Price
(Total for 1 rider, 1 bike)
Rider & Passenger
(Total for 2 riders, 1 bike)
Two Bikes, Shared Room
(Total for 2 riders, 2 bikes)
Own Bike £8895 £12590 £15790
HD Ultra Limited £15195 £18890 £28390
HD Street Glide £15195 £18890 £28390
/BMW K1600 GTL £13935 £17630 £25870
BMW R1250GS £13095 £16790 £24190
BMW R1250RT £13095 £16790 £24190

Rental prices calculated based on 21 rental days (minimum required for this tour). All prices are total.
For this table, the "Two Bikes, Shared Room" prices assume rental of two of the same model, which isn't required and in some cases may not be possible.
All bikes come with luggage included. Top boxes and GPS can be rented, subject to availability, for an additional charge.

Back to Build Your Package

Common questions about this trip

What will the weather be like on this tour?

The weather can be unpredictable, but we expect it to be pleasant and sunny with a possibility of rain at higher elevations along the way. A suitable combination of ventilated clothing and waterproofs, along with base layers, should cover any potential weather conditions. We provide comprehensive kit and packing lists, and we’re more than happy to offer advice on packing for any of our trips.

Will I find this tour too tiring?

You shouldn’t do no. We design all of our trips to be accessible to riders of all abilities and include ample days off the bike as part of this. These extended trips are no exception; we could easily shorten them by 4 or 5 days, but we opt to add multiple rest days and minimise the use of motorways to ensure you can enjoy the ride and arrive at your hotels in the evening to relax before dinner.

More information
For general information on planning and preparing for motorcycle trips including what to pack please see our Prepare for your trip section.
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