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Lake Constance is one of the great inland seas of western Europe. Bordering three
countries, it is big enough that often you cannot see from one shore to
the other. It is only a little smaller than Lake Geneva and enjoys an almost
mediterranean climate. The micro-climate on the island of Mainau allows tropical
vegetation to flourish, and elsewhere there are vineyards and orchards. A further attaction of a holiday to Lake Constance is the opportunity to visit three different countries; Austria and Switzerland as well as Germany. |
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The country bordering the lake has an excellent reputation for its cuisine,
so a cycle tour here is the perfect excuse to enjoy some tasty meals, while
never having to worry too much about the calories! Around the shores are a number of interesting towns: Bregenz in Austria, Rorschach in Switzerland, Lindau, Meersburg, Überlingen and Konstanz in Germany. The old town of Konstanz is actually on the Swiss side of the lake and was, for many years, an ally of the Swiss lands. |
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This is a gentle, relaxing tour. Cycle from just outside Friedrichshafen to the Austrian border
city of Bregenz. Then along the Austrian shore of the lake to Switzerland and Rorschach. Continue
along the Swiss bank to the old city of Konstanz, a German city on the Swiss side of the lake.
From here visit the flower island of Mainau, Salem and the palace of the Princes of Baden and
medieval Meersburg with its castle and vineyards before returning to to Friedrichshafen. Most of the route is traffic free, usually on paths along the bank and sometimes alongside a nature reserve. The path has been mostly tarred over, though about 15% has a packed sand surface. Daily distances range from 21 to 26 miles. |
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