i 🚲 Cycling & touring
Cycling the Rhine (EuroVelo 15)
180 km of cycle paths along the Rhine, from Lauterbourg to Huningue: one of the best-equipped cycle routes in France.
Overview
In Alsace, EuroVelo 15 covers nearly 180 kilometres between Huningue, on the outskirts of Basel, and Lauterbourg, on the German border. This section is part of a European route of more than 1,320 kilometres following the Rhine from its Swiss source to the North Sea. The profile is almost flat and around three quarters of the route uses cycle-only paths, making it accessible to families and novice cyclists alike.
Along the Rhône-Rhine Canal, locks mark your progress. Further north, the trail follows the flood dyke through the Rhine forests and nature reserves. Heritage dots the way: the Three Countries Bridge at Huningue, the octagonal church of Ottmarsheim, Vauban's UNESCO-listed citadel at Neuf-Brisach, then Strasbourg and its cathedral. Germany, across the river, beckons for detours. Divided into four official stages, the route can be ridden in two or three days, with dozens of Accueil Vélo (cyclist-friendly) accommodation options along the way.
Where to do it
In Strasbourg (Bas-Rhin (67)), in Alsace. Best season: ☀️ Summer.
Good to know
A waymarked route in both directions, three-quarters on cycle paths: along the canals in the south, on the Rhine embankments north of Strasbourg.
Tips
If you're coming back by train, book a space for your bike: carrying bikes on TER regional trains is difficult at peak times. Between Strasbourg and Lauterbourg, the route uses more minor roads shared with cars, so take care with children. Download the official GPX track before you set off.
Location
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to cycle the EuroVelo 15 in Alsace?
France Vélo Tourisme presents it as a two- to three-day trip in four stages: Basel–Kembs (14 km), Kembs–Neuf-Brisach (44 km), Neuf-Brisach–Strasbourg (72 km) and Strasbourg–Lauterbourg (72 km). You can also do just one section as a day trip, starting from a railway station.
Is the EuroVelo 15 suitable for children?
Yes. It's graded “Je débute” (beginner), with no significant climbs and mostly on cycle paths. The section between Basel and Strasbourg is the most family-friendly. North of Strasbourg, the route uses more minor roads where you have to ride alongside cars.
Is the route well signposted?
Yes. Along its entire Alsace section, EuroVelo 15 is signposted in both directions, with the European route logo on the signs. An official GPX track, for both directions, can also be downloaded from the France Vélo Tourisme website so you can navigate by smartphone or GPS.
What is the best time of year to cycle the Rhine route?
The route can be ridden all year round, with a caveat for the coldest winter months. Spring and summer offer the longest days and a wider choice of services open along the way. In high season, book your accommodation in advance, especially near Strasbourg.
Information checked in October 2026. Opening hours, prices and conditions may change: check the official website before you travel.
Nearby (within 20 km)
Weekend idea around Strasbourg
- 1Cycling the Rhine (EuroVelo 15)Starting point · Strasbourg
- 2Strasbourg Christmas Market – ChristkindelsmärikMust-do activity · 3 km away
- 3Strasbourg CathedralMust-see place · 3 km away
Looking for more ideas in the area?