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| Type of tour: | Self-guided |
| Level: | Leisurely |
| Duration: | 6 Nights |
| Distance: | 28 Miles/day average |
| Dates: | Self-guided: Daily: Apr 7- Sep 15, 2012 |
| Tour price: | €538 |
| Start city: | Nuremberg, Germany |
| End city: | Wurzburg, Germany |


The Main River winds through the diverse countryside of Franconia and Hesse in serverl wide loops, passing old cities and towns full of historical attractions. Apart from the beautiful landscape, you will see countless cultural highlights, art treasures, and regional culinary specialities. Stroll along Nurnberg's Historical Mile, visit Bamberg's town center, the largest in Germany, and admire the Volkach Main Loop. Cycling through charming vineyards, orchards and lovely meadows along the bank of the Main River make this tour an unforgettable journey!
The Main River winds through the diverse countryside of Franconia and Hesse in serverl wide loops, passing old cities and towns full of historical attractions. Apart from the beautiful landscape, you will see countless cultural highlights, art treasures, and regional culinary specialities. Stroll along Nurnberg's Historical Mile, visit Bamberg's town center, the largest in Germany, and admire the Volkach Main Loop. Cycling through charming vineyards, orchards and lovely meadows along the bank of the Main River make this tour an unforgettable journey!
Day 1: Nuremberg
Individual arrival in Nuremberg. Use the rest of the day for a visit to the zoo, the Delphinarium or to stroll around old town with its medieval flair. Downtown Nürnberg has something to offer everyone, including the “Historical Mile” or the mighty city wall with its 65 towers that surrounds the ancient town centre. The historical mile is a marked trail through town that leads you to the most important old buildings and sights and is an excellent way to get an overview of the interesting history of Nuremberg. Don’t miss the opportunity to try the typical “Rostbratwürste”, a special type of sausage, as you spend the evening in one of the cozy old restaurants.
Overnight in Nuremberg.
Day 2: Nuremberg - Bamberg (42 miles/67 km)
You start the day cycling along the shores of the Regnitz, heading to the college town of Erlangen. On the way you will pass Fürth, an old railway city. You continue along the Main-Danube Canal towards Forchheim. In every corner and alley of Forchheim, you will see the typical Franconian truss architecture. One of the prettiest spots in town is the recently traffic free Town Hall Square, from where you have an excellent view of the impressive structure of the Town Hall.
The Bishop’s Castle is also worth a visit. About a third of the old castle could be preserved: the beautiful, baroque Nürnberg Gate (1698), as well as the western and northern parts of the city wall. From the beautiful city park you have a good view of the parts of the old castle. The Saltor Tower next to the Kaiserpfalz is also very popular with visitors due to its unique atmosphere. Another highlight of the day is Bamberg in upper Franconia, a town spread out between seven hills that are part of the Steigerwald on the banks of the Main. The historical town centre of Bamberg has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993.
Overnight in Bamberg.
Day 3: Bamberg - Hassfurt (22 miles/37 km)
Today’s tour is short, so you can spend the morning sightseeing in Bamberg, Germany’s largest historical town center which boasts over 1,200 monuments. The former fishing quarter, also known as Little Venice, and the picturesque Bridge Town Hall are two of the most interesting sights of the city. Use the opportunity to also visit the many historical buildings, including the Emperor’s Cathedral, Neue Residenz, Böttingerhaus and the Benedictine Abbey. If that is not enough culture, be sure to check out the museums.
On today’s bike tour you leave the “Franconian Beer Region” and cross to the “Weinfränkische”, the Wine Region. Through fertile fields beside the shores of the Main you bike to the quiet town of Haßfurt, where you spend the night. Two high city towers watch over the town. The Town’s Church, the 15th century, late gothic sand stone chapel and the Renaissance style town hall from 1514 are also worth visiting.
Overnight in Hassfurt.
Day 4: Hassfurt - Volkach (33 miles/54 km)
Your first stop today is Schweinfurt. The town’s industry was heavily shelled during World War II and many historical buildings were destroyed. It is now defined by the sober architectural style from the years of rebuilding after the war. Near the center, around the Schweinfurt market square, a few old town houses and the Renaissance Town Hall give a glimpse of its former beauty.
The journey continues to a natural highlight, the Volkach Main Loop. You cycle through charming vineyards, orchards and lovely meadows by the river. The famous wine town Volkach is located at the “tip” of the river loop and a great example of the typical Franconian merry making spirit. It is also the center of the wine, fruit and asparagus region. The rectangular market square with its typical Franconian Renaissance Town Hall and the stepped gable is well worth a visit.
Overnight in Volkach.
Day 5: Volkach - Marktbreit/Ochsenfurt (24-29 miles/39-46 km)
Today you get to explore the heart of Franconian Wine Country. In the morning you make your way to the lively town of Kitzingen, defined by its five towers. Until the beginning of the century Kitzingen’s main source of income was wine making and trade and it is still home to Germany’s oldest wine cellar in the old Benedictine Nunnery. The “Fasnacht” Museum is also very interesting.
Another highlight of today’s tour is the historical town of Marktbreit. Its pretty alleys and impressive town houses make Markbreit one of the most beautiful small cities of the region. The two beautiful trade houses, the old Town Hall and the romantic Painters’ Corner on beside Beitenbach Creek, are particularly worth a visit. Seinsheim Castle in the centre of town is a unique example of Renaissance architecture.
Overnight Marktbreit/Ochsenfurt.
Day 6: Marktbreit/Ochsenfurt - Würzburg (17 or 13 miles/28 or 21 km)
A final truss architecture highlight from the Main-Franconia Region is the town of Ochsenfurt. The three-story, late gothic Town Hall with its pretty figurines is particularly impressive. Two oxen, the symbols of the town, touch their horns together on the top of the “Lanzen” tower every hour on the full hour.
You continue to cycle past beautiful villages in the fertile countryside around Ochsenfurt. In Sommerhausen the pretty town centre with the castle is worth a visit. Today’s tour is very short, so you have plenty of time to sightsee in the baroque city of Würzburg. The view over town from Marienberg Castle (a winding trail without steps leads up to the castle, you can easily take your bike) or Steinburg, the impressive pilgrimage church “Käppele”, the Residency with its beautiful park and the Old Main Bridge are just some of the attractions that make Würzburg unforgettable. Make sure you don’t miss the old fishing quarter with its narrow alleys and pretty houses.
Overnight in Wurzburg.
Day 7: Individual departure or extended stay
Daily: Apr 7- Sep 15, 2012


Extras
Day 1: Hotel Prinzregent, Nurmberg
www.prinzregent.net/
Hotel Prinzregent is situated directly at the Pegnitzauern and is 10 minutes away from the city center.
Day 2: Hotel National, Bamberg
www.hotel-national-bamberg.de/
Hotel National offers guests a comfortable stay, hotel bar and newly renovated restaurant.
Day 3: Hotel Goger, Hassfurt
www.hotel-goger-augsfeld.de
Idyllically situated in the middle of the Main Valley, Hotel Goger offers a peaceful environment, along with opportunity for relaxation and recreation.
Day 4: Hotel am Torturm, Volkach
www.hotel-am-torturm.de/
Hotel am Torturmis located at Volkach's gate tower in the heart of the Franconian wine country.
Day 5: Hotel Lowen, Marktbreit
www.ringhotel-loewen.de/
Hotel Lowen is one of the oldest inns in South Germany, located on the southern tip of the Main Triangle.
Day 6: Hotel Amberger, Wurzburg
www.hotel-amberger.de
Hotel Amberger featurs 70 rooms and numerous amentities including minibar, TV, and internet.
Day 1: Hotel Prinzregent, Nurmberg
www.prinzregent.net/
Hotel Prinzregent is situated directly at the Pegnitzauern and is 10 minutes away from the city center.
Day 2: Hotel National, Bamberg
www.hotel-national-bamberg.de/
Hotel National offers guests a comfortable stay, hotel bar and newly renovated restaurant.
Day 3: Hotel Goger, Hassfurt
www.hotel-goger-augsfeld.de
Idyllically situated in the middle of the Main Valley, Hotel Goger offers a peaceful environment, along with opportunity for relaxation and recreation.
Day 4: Hotel am Torturm, Volkach
www.hotel-am-torturm.de/
Hotel am Torturmis located at Volkach's gate tower in the heart of the Franconian wine country.
Day 5: Hotel Lowen, Marktbreit
www.ringhotel-loewen.de/
Hotel Lowen is one of the oldest inns in South Germany, located on the southern tip of the Main Triangle.
Day 6: Hotel Amberger, Wurzburg
www.hotel-amberger.de
Hotel Amberger featurs 70 rooms and numerous amentities including minibar, TV, and internet.
The bikes available are 7-speed bikes with back-pedalling brake or 21/24-speed-bikes with free wheel in different frames and inches for € 50,- per bike. Frame sizes include kadies- and gents-bikes (with cross bar), as well as unisex-bikes.
The bikes are equipped with 1 pannier bag per bike, a pump and a tachometer. On request and for free a handle bar bag or a map-holder and a second pannier bag are available. Each bike is equipped with a small repair set, so you can repair flat tires if necessary. Moreover you will receive a bicycle lock (always for 2 bikes).
Special bikes available are 3 E-bikes upon request for an additional supplement.
The bikes available are 7-speed bikes with back-pedalling brake or 21/24-speed-bikes with free wheel in different frames and inches for € 50,- per bike. Frame sizes include kadies- and gents-bikes (with cross bar), as well as unisex-bikes.
The bikes are equipped with 1 pannier bag per bike, a pump and a tachometer. On request and for free a handle bar bag or a map-holder and a second pannier bag are available. Each bike is equipped with a small repair set, so you can repair flat tires if necessary. Moreover you will receive a bicycle lock (always for 2 bikes).
Special bikes available are 3 E-bikes upon request for an additional supplement.
The Main cycle path is very well sign-posted and runs on level ground, mostly close to the river. You mostly cycle on bike paths and sometimes on quiet country roads with some traffic or gravel paths. This tour is flat with occasional hills. Approximately 85% of the tour is on dedicated bike paths, 5% on quiet roads, 5% on roads shared with traffic and 5% on dirt or gravel roads.
This tour is rated Leisure and is for cyclists in average physical condition.
The Main cycle path is very well sign-posted and runs on level ground, mostly close to the river. You mostly cycle on bike paths and sometimes on quiet country roads with some traffic or gravel paths. This tour is flat with occasional hills. Approximately 85% of the tour is on dedicated bike paths, 5% on quiet roads, 5% on roads shared with traffic and 5% on dirt or gravel roads.
This tour is rated Leisure and is for cyclists in average physical condition.
Tour Start
Nearest airport: Nuremberg, Frankfurt or Munich, Germany
Nearest train station: Nuremberg, Germany
Tour End
Nearest airport: Frankurt or Munich, Germany
Nearest train station: Wurzburg, Germany
Tour Start
Nearest airport: Nuremberg, Frankfurt or Munich, Germany
Nearest train station: Nuremberg, Germany
Tour End
Nearest airport: Frankurt or Munich, Germany
Nearest train station: Wurzburg, Germany
Germany's fairytale castles, romantic villages and bustling cities are surrounded by a wealth of pristine natural landscapes. Only a unified nation since 1990, Germany now boasts Europe's largest economy and second most populous nation. Within its unified boundaries, Germany remains a nation of diversity. Northern Germany’s coastal terrain along the Baltic Sea includes Hamburg, a harbor city of canals and waterways. Southern Germany's Bavaria region, known as "the green roof of Germany," features snow-tipped Alps, the Black Forest, Neuschwanstein Castle and the historic, picturesque city of Munich. Cruise the Rhine River through the western regions and visit Cologne's famous Gothic Cathedral built in 1248. Experience the arts, fashion and music in the capital, Berlin, and see the revitalized city of Dresden destroyed during World War II.
More on bicycling in Germany >
Germany's fairytale castles, romantic villages and bustling cities are surrounded by a wealth of pristine natural landscapes. Only a unified nation since 1990, Germany now boasts Europe's largest economy and second most populous nation. Within its unified boundaries, Germany remains a nation of diversity. Northern Germany’s coastal terrain along the Baltic Sea includes Hamburg, a harbor city of canals and waterways. Southern Germany's Bavaria region, known as "the green roof of Germany," features snow-tipped Alps, the Black Forest, Neuschwanstein Castle and the historic, picturesque city of Munich. Cruise the Rhine River through the western regions and visit Cologne's famous Gothic Cathedral built in 1248. Experience the arts, fashion and music in the capital, Berlin, and see the revitalized city of Dresden destroyed during World War II.
More on bicycling in Germany >
Velotours Touristik GmbH operates bike tours in Germany and its neighbouring countries for 28 years. A qualified and appropriate partner, Velotours offers sporty and recreative, well organized bike tours. Their principal office is in Constance with subsidiaries in Wuerzburg and Koblenz, which arrange the luggage transport and provide the bikes to all tours.
Velotours strengths include individual service on our tours (organisation before and during the tour), well selected hotels, service-oriented staff, luggage transfer arranged from Velotours directly and the company's extensive experience.
Velotours Touristik GmbH operates bike tours in Germany and its neighbouring countries for 28 years. A qualified and appropriate partner, Velotours offers sporty and recreative, well organized bike tours. Their principal office is in Constance with subsidiaries in Wuerzburg and Koblenz, which arrange the luggage transport and provide the bikes to all tours.
Velotours strengths include individual service on our tours (organisation before and during the tour), well selected hotels, service-oriented staff, luggage transfer arranged from Velotours directly and the company's extensive experience.
1. Cancellation, Change of Services or Rates:
1.a. We can cancel group tours or tours that require a minimum number of participants up to 21 days before beginning of the tour, if the minimum number of participants as stated in this catalogue is not reached.
1.b. If the tour is affected by forces unpredictable at the time of the conclusion of the contract, both parties can cancel the contract. Legal consequences are regulated by law.
1.c. Changes and differences in specific services as listed in the contract that become necessary after the conclusion of the contract are permitted, as long as they are not unconscionable but are reasonable and do not change the overall characteristics of the tour.
1.d. We are required to inform you about a cancellation or major changes regarding tours or services as soon as possible.
1.e. If the beginning of the tour is more than 4 months after the closing of the contract, we may raise the arranged price according to the following terms and conditions. This applies only if the following components of the overall price change due to circumstances unpredictable by us at the time of contract closure or if new costs arise that are not justifiable for us. Foreign exchange rates for the respective tour, transportation costs and rates, administrative charges or other fees such as harbour or airport fees: the amount of the raise in case of a raise respective to seats on the means of transportation; in other cases the value of the additional costs divided by the number of seats on the means of transportation. If administrative charges or other fees like harbour or airport fees as are at the closing at the contract are raised, the tour price as stated in the contract can be raised by the same proportionate amount. If exchange rates change after contract closure, the tour price may be raised by the amount that the tour becomes more expensive for us. We are required to inform you of any changes as soon as possible and no later than 21 days before the beginning of the trip. Prices cannot be raised less than 21 days before the beginning of the trip.
1.f. You can cancel the contract in the case of a price raise of more than 5% of the originally stated tour price in the contract or in the case of a major change regarding a listed service. Alternatively, you have the right to participate in a tour of the same value, if we are able to offer such a tour without additional costs for you. You are required to inform us of this, preferably in writing, immediately after being told of any changes.
2. Cancellation and rebooking by the client:
2.a. You can cancel your booking at any point before the beginning of the trip. This can be done formlessly, although we recommend a written declaration of cancellation.
2.b. If you cancel before the beginning of the trip for reasons other than those discussed in 4.f., if you don’t come to the trip or break off the trip, you will be required to pay a cancellation fee, which is calculated per person and according to the following percentages. You are at liberty to prove that no or lesser damages were caused. The cancellation fee is 10% (but at least 52 € per person) of the tour price 28 days or more before the starting date of the trip. 8 days or more before the trip, the cancellation fee is 50%. Less than 8 days before the trip the cancellation fee is 80%; If you cancel on the starting date, don’t come or break off the tour you have to pay the full (100%) price (no refund). Special conditions apply for some tours.
2.c. There is no refund for travel services that you do not require or make use of (unless 4.b. or 4.f. apply). Please inform our central office in Constance immediately if you don’t plan to consume a particular service, can’t come to the tour or want to break off the tour.
2.d. Fees for rebooking or cancellation of flights that we help arrange are to be determined according to the airlines terms and conditions.
2.e. If we make changes regarding travel date, destination, starting point, accommodation or mode of transportation according to your wishes after closure of the contract, we can charge 52 € 28 days or more before beginning of the trip. You are at liberty to prove that no or lesser damages were caused. This does not affect your right to send a person that participates in the tour in your stead and takes over your commitments as stated by the contract.
3. Registration:
3.a. When you register you make a binding offer to close a travel contract with us according to the services and descriptions listed. The offer is binding for 10 days. You have to register in written form (includes online and fax) and we ask you to use our registration form. If we can only offer a tour differing from what you registered for, we will make you an offer that you can accept within 10 days (does not have to be in written form). In any case the contract is not closed until we confirm the booking.
3.b. You register yourself and any other persons you list upon registering. You are responsible for their duties according to the contract as well as your own if accept a separate, explicit commitment where this is stated.
4. Payment:
4.a. With the booking confirmation you receive a chattel paper by the company “REISEGARANT” GmbH, Jessenstraße 4, 22767 Hamburg, which confirms that you are insured against bankruptcy of the tour operator, as is regulated by law. Upon receiving the confirmation and chattel paper you are required to pay a deposit of 10% of the tour costs as stated by the contract (at least 52€ per person, at most 256€ per person).
4.b. The rest of the tour costs are to be paid 2 weeks before the start of the tour. You then receive the travel documents. If payments are not made or not made fully and if you do not pay by the deadline set in a written reminder, we can cancel the contract and demand a cancellation recompense according to point 5.b., unless there is a serious fault with the tour.
4.c. Cancellation and rebooking charges, as well as the entire costs of any flights arranged by us are to be paid upon receiving the invoice.
5. Services:
Our services are listed in the “Services” section of the tour descriptions and the general information in this catalogue, as well as in the respective section of the booking confirmation. Special arrangements (special wishes, deals), which change the services agreed upon in the contract require our written confirmation.
6. Insurance:
We recommend you arrange a travel cancellation insurance or travel insurance package for yourself. Such insurances are not included in the tour price as stated by the contract. Information regarding insurance can be found in our info leaflets, which we will send you on request. You have to effect insurance yourself.
7. Liability:
7.a. We are liable for the services agreed upon according to the respective laws, unless any points from 7.b. to 7.f. apply.
7.b. Our liability for non-bodily damages is limited to three times the cost of the tour, as long as damages were not caused through wilful misconduct or gross negligence by us, our legal representatives or vicarious agents. We are liable according to the law if we cause damages through culpable violation of contractual obligations; in this case we are obligated to pay no more than the cost of the tour as compensation. If damages exceed the cost of the tour, compensation is limited to three times the cost of the tour. Non-liability or limitation of liability clauses in the law according to international agreements that apply for any of our vicarious agents also apply for us, as long as our liability is based solely on damages caused by the vicarious agent.
7.c. For all claims directed to the tour operator as a result of unauthorised actions, which are not due to gross negligence or with intent and are not claims for bodily damage, the tour operator assumes liability for damages up to three times the cost of the tour. We recommend that you take out an insurance policy to guarantee your own protection.
7.d. If we provide a contractual air carrier, we are liable only according to the Aviation Act (Luftverkehrsgesetz), particularly according to the Agreements of Warsaw, Montreal and Guadalajara.
7.e. If we mediate external services (e.g. transfers, side trips), which are explicitly declared as external services so that it is clear to you that they are executed by external carriers, we are liable only for proper mediation of the service, providing sufficient information and organisational duties, not for the actual provision of services.
7.f. We are liable for damages to your luggage during transport only if they were culpably caused by our legal representatives, deputies or vicarious agents and we were informed immediately after discovery of the damages. We are not liable for damages such as breakage of straps, handles or wheels through wear or overloading on properly handled luggage. Damages to luggage that occur after delivery to the hotel are the responsibility of the hotel according to § 701 BGB. Regarding luggage on airplanes we refer you to the preclusive time periods listed in the respective international agreements.
8. Information concerning the contract and suggestions:
8.a. If the tour is not executed as laid down in the contract, you have a right to the following legal warranty claims: remedial action, price reduction, contract cancellation and compensation. This does not apply if you culpably fail to inform us of an occurring deficiency according to 8.c.
8.b. In case of a deficiency you can only cause remedial action yourself or cancel the trip if you allow for an appropriate period of time during which we can arrange remedial action. No such time period is necessary if remedial action is not possible, is rejected by us or immediate remedial action or cancellation is in your particular interest.
8.c. For a legal notice of defect according to 8.a. we ask you to initially contact our local representative (see travel documents). If the travel documents do not list a local representative, contact the local service carrier or, if reasonable, contact us directly. If it is not possible to submit a notice of defect during the trip, please contact us at the following address or by phone or fax immediately after your return.
velotours Touristik GmbH
Bücklestraße 13
78467 Konstanz
Germany
Phone: 07531 9828-0 Fax: 07531 9828-98
8.d. Warranty claims can only be put forward to velotours Touristik GmbH, Constance, within one month after the end of the trip. Claims put forward at a later date can only be considered if you were prevented from putting forward the claim through no fault of your own.
8.e. Any claims according to §§ 651c to 651f BGB become time-barred in one year. For claims according to § 651f BGB the legal statute of limitation is two years in the case of bodily damages or damages caused through wilful intent or gross negligence by us, our legal representatives or vicarious agents. The time period of the statute of limitation begins on the last day of the trip as stated in the contract. If the last day of the time period is an official holiday or a Sunday, the next workday is considered the day of the deadline.
9. Passports, visas, customs and health regulations:
You are responsible for compliance with all regulations concerning passports, visas, customs or health issues. You have to organize your travel documents (passport etc) yourself. Any problems or monetary damages (particularly cancellation costs, see 5.b.) that arise from non-compliance with above regulations are at your expense.
10. Invalidity:
The legal invalidity of one or more provisions of the contract shall in no way affect the validity of the remaining provisions. In such a case, the parties will replace the invalid provision by a valid one that comes as close as possible to the economic purpose of the invalid provision.
11. Choice of law, jurisdiction:
German law applies. Jurisdiction for traders, persons without a general inland jurisdiction as well as persons which have relocated there domicile or common residence abroad or whose domicile or common residence is unknown at the time of bringing suit, as well as for passive lawsuits is our domicile. This does not apply, if international agreements imperatively envisage something else. We are authorized to sue you at the place of jurisdiction applicable to you at our discretion.
12. Group tours and long-distance trips:
Special terms and conditions apply for some group tours and long-distance trips (cancellation, services etc.). These special terms and conditions have priority over the points listed here. Special conditions apply for the following trips:
Bike Resort Masurian Lakes (special cancellation conditions) Cancellation fees:
57 days or more before beginning of tour: 15% of tour costs
56 – 33 days before beginning of tour: 20% of tour costs
32 – 15 days before beginning of tour: 40% of tour costs
14 – 8 days before beginning of tour: 60 % of tour costs
7 – 1 days before beginning of tour: 80% of tour costs Not appearing on beginning date of tour: 90% of tour costs
Any visa- or handling fees caused by the cancellation are entirely at your expense.
Masurian Lake District by bike and boat (special cancellation conditions) Cancellation fees:
57 days or more before beginning of tour: 15% of tour costs
56 – 33 days before beginning of tour: 20% of tour costs
32 – 15 days before beginning of tour: 40% of tour costs
14 – 8 days before beginning of tour: 60 % of tour costs
7 – 1 days before beginning of tour: 80% of tour costs
Not appearing on beginning date of tour: 90% of tour costs
Any visa- or handling fees caused by the cancellation are entirely at your expense.
Bike and Boat Tulip Tour, Bike and Boat Tour Ijsselmeer, Holland Highlights, Castles and Towns of the Hanseatic League (special cancellation conditions) Cancellation fees:
56 days or more before beginning of tour: minimum of 35 € per person, no more than 25% of tour costs
55 – 29 days before beginning of tour: 25% of tour costs
28 – 15 days before beginning of tour: 50% of tour costs
7 – 1 days before beginning of tour: 75% of tour costs
Not appearing on beginning date of tour: 100% of tour costs
Kocher-Jagst Bike Trail (special cancellation conditions) Cancellation fees:
31 days or more before beginning of tour: 10% of tour costs
30 – 21 days before beginning of tour: 20% of tour costs
20 – 12 days before beginning of tour: 40% of tour costs
11 - 3 days before beginning of tour: 60% of tour costs
Less than three days before beginning of the tour, on the starting date or in case of not appearing to the tour: 90% of tour costs
The Po Plain by Bike and Boat (special cancellation conditions) Cancellation fees:
90 days or more before beginning of tour: 10% of tour costs
89 – 60 days before beginning of tour: 40% of tour costs
59 – 30 days before beginning of tour: 60% of tour costs
29 – 7 days before beginning of tour: 85% of tour costs
6 – 1 days before beginning of tour: 90% of tour costs
O the starting date or in case of not appearing to the tour: 100% of tour costs
Through the Netherlands by bike and boat – South Route, Through the Netherlands by bike and boat – North Route, (special cancellation conditions) Cancellation fees:
85 days or more before beginning of tour: 10% of tour costs
84 – 43 days before beginning of tour: 30% of tour costs
42 – 29 days before beginning of tour: 60% of tour costs
28 – 1 days before beginning of tour: 90% of tour costs
O the starting date or in case of not appearing to the tour: 100% of tour costs
Rally Tour Magdeburg (special cancellation conditions) Cancellation fees:
30 days or more before beginning of tour: 15% of tour costs, or at least 50 € per person
29 – 21 days before beginning of tour: 30% of tour costs
20 – 7 days before beginning of tour: 50% of tour costs
6 – 1 days before beginning of tour: 90% of tour costs
O the starting date or in case of not appearing to the tour: 100% of tour costs
Drenthe (special cancellation conditions) Cancellation fees:
42 days or more before beginning of tour: 20% of tour costs
41 – 28 days before beginning of tour: 35% of tour costs
27 – 21 days before beginning of tour: 40% of tour costs
20 – 14 days before beginning of tour: 50% of tour costs
13 – 5 days before beginning of tour: 75% of tour costs
4 – 1 days before beginning of tour: 90% of tour costs
O the starting date or in case of not appearing to the tour: 100% of tour costs
13. Please note:
Cycling is a form of travelling that requires a little more active participation than a typical all-inclusive trip. Any healthy person can manage our tours, however only you or your physician can determine whether your health is good enough for such a tour. You need to be able to ride a bicycle in traffic, on non-paved trails and in wet conditions. You are responsible for complying with road traffic regulations and for damages you cause to yourself or others.
14. Miscellaneous:
All information and data was valid on the day this catalogue was printed. Services and rates are subject to change; errors, misprints and calculation errors may be corrected upon discovery.
1. Cancellation, Change of Services or Rates:
1.a. We can cancel group tours or tours that require a minimum number of participants up to 21 days before beginning of the tour, if the minimum number of participants as stated in this catalogue is not reached.
1.b. If the tour is affected by forces unpredictable at the time of the conclusion of the contract, both parties can cancel the contract. Legal consequences are regulated by law.
1.c. Changes and differences in specific services as listed in the contract that become necessary after the conclusion of the contract are permitted, as long as they are not unconscionable but are reasonable and do not change the overall characteristics of the tour.
1.d. We are required to inform you about a cancellation or major changes regarding tours or services as soon as possible.
1.e. If the beginning of the tour is more than 4 months after the closing of the contract, we may raise the arranged price according to the following terms and conditions. This applies only if the following components of the overall price change due to circumstances unpredictable by us at the time of contract closure or if new costs arise that are not justifiable for us. Foreign exchange rates for the respective tour, transportation costs and rates, administrative charges or other fees such as harbour or airport fees: the amount of the raise in case of a raise respective to seats on the means of transportation; in other cases the value of the additional costs divided by the number of seats on the means of transportation. If administrative charges or other fees like harbour or airport fees as are at the closing at the contract are raised, the tour price as stated in the contract can be raised by the same proportionate amount. If exchange rates change after contract closure, the tour price may be raised by the amount that the tour becomes more expensive for us. We are required to inform you of any changes as soon as possible and no later than 21 days before the beginning of the trip. Prices cannot be raised less than 21 days before the beginning of the trip.
1.f. You can cancel the contract in the case of a price raise of more than 5% of the originally stated tour price in the contract or in the case of a major change regarding a listed service. Alternatively, you have the right to participate in a tour of the same value, if we are able to offer such a tour without additional costs for you. You are required to inform us of this, preferably in writing, immediately after being told of any changes.
2. Cancellation and rebooking by the client:
2.a. You can cancel your booking at any point before the beginning of the trip. This can be done formlessly, although we recommend a written declaration of cancellation.
2.b. If you cancel before the beginning of the trip for reasons other than those discussed in 4.f., if you don’t come to the trip or break off the trip, you will be required to pay a cancellation fee, which is calculated per person and according to the following percentages. You are at liberty to prove that no or lesser damages were caused. The cancellation fee is 10% (but at least 52 € per person) of the tour price 28 days or more before the starting date of the trip. 8 days or more before the trip, the cancellation fee is 50%. Less than 8 days before the trip the cancellation fee is 80%; If you cancel on the starting date, don’t come or break off the tour you have to pay the full (100%) price (no refund). Special conditions apply for some tours.
2.c. There is no refund for travel services that you do not require or make use of (unless 4.b. or 4.f. apply). Please inform our central office in Constance immediately if you don’t plan to consume a particular service, can’t come to the tour or want to break off the tour.
2.d. Fees for rebooking or cancellation of flights that we help arrange are to be determined according to the airlines terms and conditions.
2.e. If we make changes regarding travel date, destination, starting point, accommodation or mode of transportation according to your wishes after closure of the contract, we can charge 52 € 28 days or more before beginning of the trip. You are at liberty to prove that no or lesser damages were caused. This does not affect your right to send a person that participates in the tour in your stead and takes over your commitments as stated by the contract.
3. Registration:
3.a. When you register you make a binding offer to close a travel contract with us according to the services and descriptions listed. The offer is binding for 10 days. You have to register in written form (includes online and fax) and we ask you to use our registration form. If we can only offer a tour differing from what you registered for, we will make you an offer that you can accept within 10 days (does not have to be in written form). In any case the contract is not closed until we confirm the booking.
3.b. You register yourself and any other persons you list upon registering. You are responsible for their duties according to the contract as well as your own if accept a separate, explicit commitment where this is stated.
4. Payment:
4.a. With the booking confirmation you receive a chattel paper by the company “REISEGARANT” GmbH, Jessenstraße 4, 22767 Hamburg, which confirms that you are insured against bankruptcy of the tour operator, as is regulated by law. Upon receiving the confirmation and chattel paper you are required to pay a deposit of 10% of the tour costs as stated by the contract (at least 52€ per person, at most 256€ per person).
4.b. The rest of the tour costs are to be paid 2 weeks before the start of the tour. You then receive the travel documents. If payments are not made or not made fully and if you do not pay by the deadline set in a written reminder, we can cancel the contract and demand a cancellation recompense according to point 5.b., unless there is a serious fault with the tour.
4.c. Cancellation and rebooking charges, as well as the entire costs of any flights arranged by us are to be paid upon receiving the invoice.
5. Services:
Our services are listed in the “Services” section of the tour descriptions and the general information in this catalogue, as well as in the respective section of the booking confirmation. Special arrangements (special wishes, deals), which change the services agreed upon in the contract require our written confirmation.
6. Insurance:
We recommend you arrange a travel cancellation insurance or travel insurance package for yourself. Such insurances are not included in the tour price as stated by the contract. Information regarding insurance can be found in our info leaflets, which we will send you on request. You have to effect insurance yourself.
7. Liability:
7.a. We are liable for the services agreed upon according to the respective laws, unless any points from 7.b. to 7.f. apply.
7.b. Our liability for non-bodily damages is limited to three times the cost of the tour, as long as damages were not caused through wilful misconduct or gross negligence by us, our legal representatives or vicarious agents. We are liable according to the law if we cause damages through culpable violation of contractual obligations; in this case we are obligated to pay no more than the cost of the tour as compensation. If damages exceed the cost of the tour, compensation is limited to three times the cost of the tour. Non-liability or limitation of liability clauses in the law according to international agreements that apply for any of our vicarious agents also apply for us, as long as our liability is based solely on damages caused by the vicarious agent.
7.c. For all claims directed to the tour operator as a result of unauthorised actions, which are not due to gross negligence or with intent and are not claims for bodily damage, the tour operator assumes liability for damages up to three times the cost of the tour. We recommend that you take out an insurance policy to guarantee your own protection.
7.d. If we provide a contractual air carrier, we are liable only according to the Aviation Act (Luftverkehrsgesetz), particularly according to the Agreements of Warsaw, Montreal and Guadalajara.
7.e. If we mediate external services (e.g. transfers, side trips), which are explicitly declared as external services so that it is clear to you that they are executed by external carriers, we are liable only for proper mediation of the service, providing sufficient information and organisational duties, not for the actual provision of services.
7.f. We are liable for damages to your luggage during transport only if they were culpably caused by our legal representatives, deputies or vicarious agents and we were informed immediately after discovery of the damages. We are not liable for damages such as breakage of straps, handles or wheels through wear or overloading on properly handled luggage. Damages to luggage that occur after delivery to the hotel are the responsibility of the hotel according to § 701 BGB. Regarding luggage on airplanes we refer you to the preclusive time periods listed in the respective international agreements.
8. Information concerning the contract and suggestions:
8.a. If the tour is not executed as laid down in the contract, you have a right to the following legal warranty claims: remedial action, price reduction, contract cancellation and compensation. This does not apply if you culpably fail to inform us of an occurring deficiency according to 8.c.
8.b. In case of a deficiency you can only cause remedial action yourself or cancel the trip if you allow for an appropriate period of time during which we can arrange remedial action. No such time period is necessary if remedial action is not possible, is rejected by us or immediate remedial action or cancellation is in your particular interest.
8.c. For a legal notice of defect according to 8.a. we ask you to initially contact our local representative (see travel documents). If the travel documents do not list a local representative, contact the local service carrier or, if reasonable, contact us directly. If it is not possible to submit a notice of defect during the trip, please contact us at the following address or by phone or fax immediately after your return.
velotours Touristik GmbH
Bücklestraße 13
78467 Konstanz
Germany
Phone: 07531 9828-0 Fax: 07531 9828-98
8.d. Warranty claims can only be put forward to velotours Touristik GmbH, Constance, within one month after the end of the trip. Claims put forward at a later date can only be considered if you were prevented from putting forward the claim through no fault of your own.
8.e. Any claims according to §§ 651c to 651f BGB become time-barred in one year. For claims according to § 651f BGB the legal statute of limitation is two years in the case of bodily damages or damages caused through wilful intent or gross negligence by us, our legal representatives or vicarious agents. The time period of the statute of limitation begins on the last day of the trip as stated in the contract. If the last day of the time period is an official holiday or a Sunday, the next workday is considered the day of the deadline.
9. Passports, visas, customs and health regulations:
You are responsible for compliance with all regulations concerning passports, visas, customs or health issues. You have to organize your travel documents (passport etc) yourself. Any problems or monetary damages (particularly cancellation costs, see 5.b.) that arise from non-compliance with above regulations are at your expense.
10. Invalidity:
The legal invalidity of one or more provisions of the contract shall in no way affect the validity of the remaining provisions. In such a case, the parties will replace the invalid provision by a valid one that comes as close as possible to the economic purpose of the invalid provision.
11. Choice of law, jurisdiction:
German law applies. Jurisdiction for traders, persons without a general inland jurisdiction as well as persons which have relocated there domicile or common residence abroad or whose domicile or common residence is unknown at the time of bringing suit, as well as for passive lawsuits is our domicile. This does not apply, if international agreements imperatively envisage something else. We are authorized to sue you at the place of jurisdiction applicable to you at our discretion.
12. Group tours and long-distance trips:
Special terms and conditions apply for some group tours and long-distance trips (cancellation, services etc.). These special terms and conditions have priority over the points listed here. Special conditions apply for the following trips:
Bike Resort Masurian Lakes (special cancellation conditions) Cancellation fees:
57 days or more before beginning of tour: 15% of tour costs
56 – 33 days before beginning of tour: 20% of tour costs
32 – 15 days before beginning of tour: 40% of tour costs
14 – 8 days before beginning of tour: 60 % of tour costs
7 – 1 days before beginning of tour: 80% of tour costs Not appearing on beginning date of tour: 90% of tour costs
Any visa- or handling fees caused by the cancellation are entirely at your expense.
Masurian Lake District by bike and boat (special cancellation conditions) Cancellation fees:
57 days or more before beginning of tour: 15% of tour costs
56 – 33 days before beginning of tour: 20% of tour costs
32 – 15 days before beginning of tour: 40% of tour costs
14 – 8 days before beginning of tour: 60 % of tour costs
7 – 1 days before beginning of tour: 80% of tour costs
Not appearing on beginning date of tour: 90% of tour costs
Any visa- or handling fees caused by the cancellation are entirely at your expense.
Bike and Boat Tulip Tour, Bike and Boat Tour Ijsselmeer, Holland Highlights, Castles and Towns of the Hanseatic League (special cancellation conditions) Cancellation fees:
56 days or more before beginning of tour: minimum of 35 € per person, no more than 25% of tour costs
55 – 29 days before beginning of tour: 25% of tour costs
28 – 15 days before beginning of tour: 50% of tour costs
7 – 1 days before beginning of tour: 75% of tour costs
Not appearing on beginning date of tour: 100% of tour costs
Kocher-Jagst Bike Trail (special cancellation conditions) Cancellation fees:
31 days or more before beginning of tour: 10% of tour costs
30 – 21 days before beginning of tour: 20% of tour costs
20 – 12 days before beginning of tour: 40% of tour costs
11 - 3 days before beginning of tour: 60% of tour costs
Less than three days before beginning of the tour, on the starting date or in case of not appearing to the tour: 90% of tour costs
The Po Plain by Bike and Boat (special cancellation conditions) Cancellation fees:
90 days or more before beginning of tour: 10% of tour costs
89 – 60 days before beginning of tour: 40% of tour costs
59 – 30 days before beginning of tour: 60% of tour costs
29 – 7 days before beginning of tour: 85% of tour costs
6 – 1 days before beginning of tour: 90% of tour costs
O the starting date or in case of not appearing to the tour: 100% of tour costs
Through the Netherlands by bike and boat – South Route, Through the Netherlands by bike and boat – North Route, (special cancellation conditions) Cancellation fees:
85 days or more before beginning of tour: 10% of tour costs
84 – 43 days before beginning of tour: 30% of tour costs
42 – 29 days before beginning of tour: 60% of tour costs
28 – 1 days before beginning of tour: 90% of tour costs
O the starting date or in case of not appearing to the tour: 100% of tour costs
Rally Tour Magdeburg (special cancellation conditions) Cancellation fees:
30 days or more before beginning of tour: 15% of tour costs, or at least 50 € per person
29 – 21 days before beginning of tour: 30% of tour costs
20 – 7 days before beginning of tour: 50% of tour costs
6 – 1 days before beginning of tour: 90% of tour costs
O the starting date or in case of not appearing to the tour: 100% of tour costs
Drenthe (special cancellation conditions) Cancellation fees:
42 days or more before beginning of tour: 20% of tour costs
41 – 28 days before beginning of tour: 35% of tour costs
27 – 21 days before beginning of tour: 40% of tour costs
20 – 14 days before beginning of tour: 50% of tour costs
13 – 5 days before beginning of tour: 75% of tour costs
4 – 1 days before beginning of tour: 90% of tour costs
O the starting date or in case of not appearing to the tour: 100% of tour costs
13. Please note:
Cycling is a form of travelling that requires a little more active participation than a typical all-inclusive trip. Any healthy person can manage our tours, however only you or your physician can determine whether your health is good enough for such a tour. You need to be able to ride a bicycle in traffic, on non-paved trails and in wet conditions. You are responsible for complying with road traffic regulations and for damages you cause to yourself or others.
14. Miscellaneous:
All information and data was valid on the day this catalogue was printed. Services and rates are subject to change; errors, misprints and calculation errors may be corrected upon discovery.
