Travel down the Vltava and Elbe Rivers

Prague - Dresden (Self-Guided/Guided)

Tour Description: Guided

Come with us down the Vltava and Elbe Rivers to visit two important cultural centers in Europe. Prague, since ancient times melting-pot of Czech, German and Jewish ethnic groups, and Dresden, seat of the Saxon dukes and Florence of the North.

Both towns have a very long history and visiting them will fill you up with very strong cultural memories for a long time. The same way as the rivers flow, we will ride along them through a beautiful countryside full of picturesque towns such as Melnik, Litomerice, or Bad Schandau.

The tour will take us through natural beauties of the Czech-Saxon Switzerland National Park, as well as through romantic region of former volcanoes of the Czech Middle Mountains. The last kilometers will take us through cultural regions under the auspices of the UNESCO - the Dresden Valley of the Elbe River.

Connecting two European centers, as well as the beauties of the Vltava and Elbe River basins, yields a very attractive, but not physically demanding tour manageable even by less fit bikers. As a bonus you can enjoy a boat trip or half day hiking in the Czech Saxon Switzerland.

Not sure whether to book a guided or self-guided tour? Learn about the differences between guided and self-guided tours. 

Tour Description: Self-guided

Come with us down the Vltava and Elbe Rivers to visit two important cultural centers in Europe. Prague, since ancient times melting-pot of Czech, German and Jewish ethnic groups, and Dresden, seat of the Saxon dukes and Florence of the North.

Both towns have a very long history and visiting them will fill you up with very strong cultural memories for a long time. The same way as the rivers flow, we will ride along them through a beautiful countryside full of picturesque towns such as Melnik, Litomerice, or Bad Schandau.

The tour will take us through natural beauties of the Czech-Saxon Switzerland National Park, as well as through romantic region of former volcanoes of the Czech Middle Mountains. The last kilometers will take us through cultural regions under the auspices of the UNESCO - the Dresden Valley of the Elbe River.

Connecting two European centers, as well as the beauties of the Vltava and Elbe River basins, yields a very attractive, but not physically demanding tour manageable even by less fit bikers. As a bonus you can enjoy a boat trip or half day hiking in the Czech Saxon Switzerland.

Not sure whether to book a guided or self-guided tour? Learn about the differences between guided and self-guided tours. 

Highlights: Guided

• Prague – capital city of The Czech Republic
• The easiest our tour as route leads on river banks and daily distances a shorter.
• The Czech Middle Mountains - romantic region of former volcanoes
• Hiking in Czech-Saxon Switzerland national park
• The largest rock arch in Europe.
• Königstein Fortress, Germany
• Dresden - there is probably no other town in Germany which better symbolizes the turbulent history of this country.

Highlights: Self-guided

• Prague – capital city of The Czech Republic
• The easiest our tour as route leads on river banks and daily distances a shorter.
• The Czech Middle Mountains - romantic region of former volcanoes
• Hiking in Czech-Saxon Switzerland national park
• The largest rock arch in Europe.
• Königstein Fortress, Germany
• Dresden - there is probably no other town in Germany which better symbolizes the turbulent history of this country.

Daily Program: Guided

Day 1: Arrival to Prague
Pick up at the airport and transfer to the hotel. Sightseeing tour of the city, in the evening a briefing including information about organization of the tour, the travel plan, adjustment of bikes, getting familiar with safety during transport. We strongly recommend extending your stay in the Czech Republic in order to be able to visit Prague and all its beauties. We can arrange accommodation and tour guiding services for you.

Day 2: Prague - Melnik (29.5 miles/48km)
Despite the first small ascent, today's stage follows a nice trail to the heart of the Czech wine region - the town of Melnik. It is a good warm-up for our further bike stages. Just before we leave Prague, we pass the Troja Baroque Castle and we continue to the North following the bank of the Vltava River. The river cuts into the ground here, which creates very interesting rock formations and deep valleys. Visits of the castles in Nelahozeves or Veltrusy are the biggest highlights of this day. We will end this stage in an old wine town at the confluence of the Vltava and Elbe Rivers with a glass of good wine.
Overnight in Melnik. 

Day 3: Melnik - Litomerice (27 miles/44km)
Today's stage leads us through a calm Elbe region and is without significant altitude changes. This region is one of the most fertile regions in the Czech Republic. Due to the confluence of the Vltava and Elbe Rivers, the river gains on its mightiness and strength and slowly becomes a European major waterway. After passing the Libechov Castle, we will get to the town of Roudnice nad Labem and we will have a chance to admire an old church and a castle. The most impressive stop on today's stage is the massive Terezin Fortress from the turn of the 18th century, which illustrates the military architecture of the time. The seamy side of its history is the World War II periods. This era was filled with hatred and cruelty and dramatically spotted the Terezin. A place which the Nazis used as a Jewish concentration camp. We will conclude the day in an old town and spiritual center of this region - in the town of Litomerice, which is an antipole to the horrific Terezin Fortress.
Overnight in Litomerice. 

Day 4: Litomerice - Decin (27 miles/44km)
This day is designed for exploration of the romantic countryside of the Czech Middle Mountains. Even though, this region is very hilly, we will follow the banks of the Elbe River most of the time and hills with several old-time ruins will surround us. This former volcanic region had always been an ideal terrain for building of castles and fortresses, many of which have unfortunately not been preserved till up to date. The Strekov Castle, which was built on top of a steep rock cliff, belongs among one of the most romantic castles in the Czech Republic. After a more strenuous climb, we will be rewarded by a magnificent view from its walls. The final point of this stage will be the Northern Gate of the Czech Republic and the town of Decin - town with the lowest altitude in the Czech Republic.
Overnight in Decin. 

Day 5: Decin - Czech Saxon Switzerland - Hrensko/Bad Schandau (13 miles/22km)
This day will be almost fully optional but always special! In the morning you can decide, whether you prefer biking or sailing to Hrensko. This border town is situated in the heart of the Czech-Saxon Switzerland NP and offers many attractive activities. It offers many hiking trails leading through the scenery of the rocky towns, the mesas, the passes, deep gorges and hillsides. Special bonus to admire is the wonder of the Pravcicka Gate, no doubt, the biggest natural rock bridge in Europe.
Overnight in Bad Schandau. 

Day 6: Bad Schandau - Dresden (24 miles/40km)
This day is packed with historical sights! Shortlyfrom Bad Schandau we will see a scary looking Königstein Fortress and just past the curve abeautiful rock formation with a romantic rock bridge and Bastei Ruin. Couple of kilometers down the road, by the town of Pirna, we will enter the regionof the Dresden Valley.
Overnight in Dresden. 

Day 7: Dresden
There is probably no other town in Germany which better symbolizes the turbulent history of this country and shows many centuries of cultural and architectural boom combined with religious freedom and economic prosperity. A short admiration of Nazism was followed by a cruel punishment in the form of the biggest bombing during World War II, which turned almost the entire city into ruins overnight.We can arrange tour guiding services for you or help you to extend your stay.

Daily Program: Self-guided

Day 1: Arrival to Prague
Pick up at the airport and transfer to the hotel. Sightseeing tour of the city, in the evening a briefing including information about organization of the tour, the travel plan, adjustment of bikes, getting familiar with safety during transport. We strongly recommend extending your stay in the Czech Republic in order to be able to visit Prague and all its beauties. We can arrange accommodation and tour guiding services for you.

Day 2: Prague - Melnik (29.5 miles/48km)
Despite the first small ascent, today's stage follows a nice trail to the heart of the Czech wine region - the town of Melnik. It is a good warm-up for our further bike stages. Just before we leave Prague, we pass the Troja Baroque Castle and we continue to the North following the bank of the Vltava River. The river cuts into the ground here, which creates very interesting rock formations and deep valleys. Visits of the castles in Nelahozeves or Veltrusy are the biggest highlights of this day. We will end this stage in an old wine town at the confluence of the Vltava and Elbe Rivers with a glass of good wine.
Overnight in Melnik. 

Day 3: Melnik - Litomerice (27 miles/44km)
Today's stage leads us through a calm Elbe region and is without significant altitude changes. This region is one of the most fertile regions in the Czech Republic. Due to the confluence of the Vltava and Elbe Rivers, the river gains on its mightiness and strength and slowly becomes a European major waterway. After passing the Libechov Castle, we will get to the town of Roudnice nad Labem and we will have a chance to admire an old church and a castle. The most impressive stop on today's stage is the massive Terezin Fortress from the turn of the 18th century, which illustrates the military architecture of the time. The seamy side of its history is the World War II periods. This era was filled with hatred and cruelty and dramatically spotted the Terezin. A place which the Nazis used as a Jewish concentration camp. We will conclude the day in an old town and spiritual center of this region - in the town of Litomerice, which is an antipole to the horrific Terezin Fortress.
Overnight in Litomerice. 

Day 4: Litomerice - Decin (27 miles/44km)
This day is designed for exploration of the romantic countryside of the Czech Middle Mountains. Even though, this region is very hilly, we will follow the banks of the Elbe River most of the time and hills with several old-time ruins will surround us. This former volcanic region had always been an ideal terrain for building of castles and fortresses, many of which have unfortunately not been preserved till up to date. The Strekov Castle, which was built on top of a steep rock cliff, belongs among one of the most romantic castles in the Czech Republic. After a more strenuous climb, we will be rewarded by a magnificent view from its walls. The final point of this stage will be the Northern Gate of the Czech Republic and the town of Decin - town with the lowest altitude in the Czech Republic.
Overnight in Decin. 

Day 5: Decin - Czech Saxon Switzerland - Hrensko/Bad Schandau (13 miles/22km)
This day will be almost fully optional but always special! In the morning you can decide, whether you prefer biking or sailing to Hrensko. This border town is situated in the heart of the Czech-Saxon Switzerland NP and offers many attractive activities. It offers many hiking trails leading through the scenery of the rocky towns, the mesas, the passes, deep gorges and hillsides. Special bonus to admire is the wonder of the Pravcicka Gate, no doubt, the biggest natural rock bridge in Europe.
Overnight in Bad Schandau. 

Day 6: Bad Schandau - Dresden (24 miles/40km)
This day is packed with historical sights! Shortlyfrom Bad Schandau we will see a scary looking Königstein Fortress and just past the curve abeautiful rock formation with a romantic rock bridge and Bastei Ruin. Couple of kilometers down the road, by the town of Pirna, we will enter the regionof the Dresden Valley.
Overnight in Dresden. 

Day 7: Dresden
There is probably no other town in Germany which better symbolizes the turbulent history of this country and shows many centuries of cultural and architectural boom combined with religious freedom and economic prosperity. A short admiration of Nazism was followed by a cruel punishment in the form of the biggest bombing during World War II, which turned almost the entire city into ruins overnight.We can arrange tour guiding services for you or help you to extend your stay.

Dates: Guided

Saturdays: May 11; Jun 8; Jul 20; Aug 17; Sep 14, 2013 

Dates: Self-guided

Daily: April 1- October 31, 2013

This tour requires a minimum of 2 people. 

Route Map: Guided

Route Map: Self-guided

Packages and Prices: Guided

Tour package (guided)
Per person, double occupancy €782 Single supplement (1 person/1 room) €123 Dinner option, 5 nights (not available on last night of tour) €60 Bike rentals Hybrid touring bike €60 Mountain bike €72 Electrically assisted bikes (approximately) €120 Tandem bike €114 Tag-along €24 Child seat €24 Equipment provided free with all rentals €0 Extra nights, Prague (4-star hotel) Per person, double or triple occupancy €40 Single supplement (1 person/1 room) €20 Extra nights, Dresden (3-star hotel) Per person, double or triple occupancy €45 Single supplement (1 person/1 room) €25 Transfers (price per group, per direction) From Airport to Prague hotel for 1-3 people €26 From Airport to Prague hotel for 4-8 people €36 From train station to Prague hotel for 1-3 people €26 From train station to Prague hotel for 4-8 people €36 From Dresden to Prague (or reverse) includes bikes and luggage, for 1-3 people €190 From Dresden to Prague (or reverse) includes bikes and luggage, for 4-8 people €210 Children 15 and under sharing a room with two adults Tour package €704 Extra nights, Prague (4-star hotel) €20

Packages and Prices: Self-guided

Tour package (self-guided)
This tour requires a minimum of 2 people.
Per person, double occupancy €538 Single supplement (1 person/1 room) €123 Dinner option, 5 nights (not available on last night of tour) €60 Bike rentals Hybrid touring bike €60 Mountain bike €72 Tandem bike €114 Tag-along €30 Child seat €24 Electrically assisted bikes (approximately) €120 Equipment provided free with all rentals €0 Extra nights, Prague (4-star hotel) Per person, double or triple occupancy €40 Single supplement (1 person/1 room) €20 Extra nights, Dresden (3-star hotel) Per person, double or triple occupancy €45 Single supplement (1 person/1 room) €25 Transfers (price per group, per direction) From Airport to Prague hotel for 1-3 people €26 From Airport to Prague hotel for 4-8 people €36 From train station to Prague hotel for 1-3 people €26 From train station to Prague hotel for 4-8 people €36 From Dresden to Prague (or reverse) includes bikes and luggage, for 1-3 people €190 From Dresden to Prague (or reverse) includes bikes and luggage, for 4-8 people €210 Children 15 and under sharing room with two adults Tour package €485 Extra nights, Prague (4-star hotel) €20

Included Services: Guided

Included Services: Self-guided

• Accommodation in selected standard class hotels and pensions
• Buffet breakfast on all days
• Detailed town maps (per room)
• Program and Route Book (per room)
• Detailed cycling maps and route description (per room)
• Bicycle repair kit (per room)
• Transportation of participants, their luggage and bicycles from Prague to the starting point of the bike route and from the end of the route to Prague (according to the programme of the tour)
• Transportation of luggage between hotels
• 24 hour hotline assistance service in case of problems or questions
• GPS set with recorded routes, batteries, battery charger (on request)

Hotels: Guided

These are sample hotels and may vary based on availability. 

Day 1: Hotel Seifert
www.hotelseifert.cz
The hotel is in the city center and was established in 2006, and has modern comfortable rooms. 

Day 2: Hotel Jaro
www.hotel-jaro.cz
This smaller hotel with 9 rooms, is located in the city center.

Day 3: The Dejmalik Hotel
www.dejmalik.eu
Litomerice is located on the foothills of the Czech Central Mountains, the hotel can be found in the city center. 

Day 4: Hotel ÄŒeská Koruna
www.hotelceskakoruna.cz
The hotel is located in Masaryk Square near the Decin Castle. They offer over 43 rooms and during the summer months, the restaurant has outdoor seating.

Day 5: Hotel Mezni Louka
www.hotel-mezni-louka-hrensko.az
The hotel is located in the heart of the National Park Czech Switzerland. There are 19 comfortable rooms.

Day 6: Alttolkewitzer Hof
www.alttolkewitzer-hof.de
Located in a quiet part of Dresden and surrounded by the Elbe meadows is the Alttolkewitzer Ho. There are 23 comfortable rooms.

Interested in visiting other areas before or after your tour? Visit our hotels page to learn more about lodging options. 

Hotels: Self-guided

These are sample hotels and may vary based on availability. 

Day 1: Hotel Seifert
www.hotelseifert.cz
The hotel is in the city center and was established in 2006, and has modern comfortable rooms. 

Day 2: Hotel Jaro
www.hotel-jaro.cz
This smaller hotel with 9 rooms, is located in the city center.

Day 3: The Dejmalik Hotel
www.dejmalik.eu
Litomerice is located on the foothills of the Czech Central Mountains, the hotel can be found in the city center. 

Day 4: Hotel ÄŒeská Koruna
www.hotelceskakoruna.cz
The hotel is located in Masaryk Square near the Decin Castle. They offer over 43 rooms and during the summer months, the restaurant has outdoor seating.

Day 5: Hotel Mezni Louka
www.hotel-mezni-louka-hrensko.az
The hotel is located in the heart of the National Park Czech Switzerland. There are 19 comfortable rooms.

Day 6: Alttolkewitzer Hof
www.alttolkewitzer-hof.de
Located in a quiet part of Dresden and surrounded by the Elbe meadows is the Alttolkewitzer Ho. There are 23 comfortable rooms.

Interested in visiting other areas before or after your tour? Visit our hotels page to learn more about lodging options. 

Bike Rentals: Guided

Bikes available for rent are 21-speed hybrid bikes or 21-speed mountain bikes. Each bike has Shimano components, a suspended fork, and a rear rack with panniers to store your personal items.

Bike Rental includes - helmet, lock, and pannier. The self-guided tours also include a repair kit per group (pump, spare tube, tools). 

E-bikes are also avalable for rent. 

Bike Rentals: Self-guided

Bikes available for rent are 21-speed hybrid bikes or 21-speed mountain bikes. Each bike has Shimano components, a suspended fork, and a rear rack with panniers to store your personal items.

Bike Rental includes - helmet, lock, and pannier. The self-guided tours also include a repair kit per group (pump, spare tube, tools). 

E-bikes are also avalable for rent. 

Surface and Terrain: Guided

Relaxed cycling with occasional hills. Average physical condition required. The tour is rated leisurely and is for cyclists in average physical condition.

Surface and Terrain: Self-guided

Relaxed cycling with occasional hills. Average physical condition required. The tour is rated leisurely and is for cyclists in average physical condition.

Feedback: Guided

"The Prague to Dresden is an opportunity to experience the beauty of the Czech Republic plus one day of Germany. The mountains and river valleys of the countryside are breathtaking. The historic architecture makes the trip seem to take place a century ago. This was a trip I'd long anticipated. I was not disappointed!"
- Bev G
2010 

"Of the 30 days I spent in Europe, the most fun were the 6 days I spent biking from Prague to Dresden. Valerie and Maghita were always helpful, friendly, and quick to provide translations, and Heinrich was a master at keeping our bikes in working order. Despite the rain, I would recommend this tour to anyone who can handle biking up one >10% grade for 10 minutes. The rest of the trip was essentially downhill, flat or just a short hill that anyone could climb. 

"The roads and trails ranged in quality from smooth-as-glass roller-blading paths to paint-mixer-quality river rock paths, to sharing stretches of roads with cars, to dirt trails, to cobblestones. If your bottom is as bony as mine, I would recommend a highly padded seat. The tour included a castle and a concentration camp, along with some beautiful views of the Czech and German countrysides. The history that the guides and the proprietors of the tour stops provide are absolutely fascinating. Be sure to arrive at least 3 days before the tour to truly experience Prague on your own. The tour actually starts just outside of town at a park by the Vtlava river, and heads downstream, away from Prague.
- Franklin
2010 

Feedback: Self-guided

"The Prague to Dresden is an opportunity to experience the beauty of the Czech Republic plus one day of Germany. The mountains and river valleys of the countryside are breathtaking. The historic architecture makes the trip seem to take place a century ago. This was a trip I'd long anticipated. I was not disappointed!"
- Bev G
2010 

"Of the 30 days I spent in Europe, the most fun were the 6 days I spent biking from Prague to Dresden. Valerie and Maghita were always helpful, friendly, and quick to provide translations, and Heinrich was a master at keeping our bikes in working order. Despite the rain, I would recommend this tour to anyone who can handle biking up one >10% grade for 10 minutes. The rest of the trip was essentially downhill, flat or just a short hill that anyone could climb. 

"The roads and trails ranged in quality from smooth-as-glass roller-blading paths to paint-mixer-quality river rock paths, to sharing stretches of roads with cars, to dirt trails, to cobblestones. If your bottom is as bony as mine, I would recommend a highly padded seat. The tour included a castle and a concentration camp, along with some beautiful views of the Czech and German countrysides. The history that the guides and the proprietors of the tour stops provide are absolutely fascinating. Be sure to arrive at least 3 days before the tour to truly experience Prague on your own. The tour actually starts just outside of town at a park by the Vtlava river, and heads downstream, away from Prague.
- Franklin
2010 

How To Get There: Guided

Tour start
Nearest airport:

• Prague (PRG)

Nearest train station:

• Prague Main Station

Tour end
Nearest airport:

• Dresden (DRS)

Nearest train station:

• Dresden 

Tips on getting to and from your tour

Please note
The tour includes one transfer, either from Prague airport to your hotel, or from your hotel to the tour start on the first day of the tour. The tour company can arrange other transfers for you if needed. Please see packages and prices for more details.

How To Get There: Self-guided

Tour start
Nearest airport:

• Prague (PRG)

Nearest train station:

• Prague Main Station

Tour end
Nearest airport:

• Dresden (DRS)

Nearest train station:

• Dresden 

Tips on getting to and from your tour

Please note
The tour includes one transfer, either from Prague airport to your hotel, or from your hotel to the tour start on the first day of the tour. The tour company can arrange other transfers for you if needed. Please see packages and prices for more details.

Weather: Guided

Weather Underground offers information on average and record temperatures at many destinations throughout the globe. Type a destination in the search box and enter a travel date range to learn about seasonal weather patterns.

Get weather information.

Weather: Self-guided

Weather Underground offers information on average and record temperatures at many destinations throughout the globe. Type a destination in the search box and enter a travel date range to learn about seasonal weather patterns.

Get weather information.

More About Germany : Guided

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 > 

View all Germany bike tours >

More About Germany : Self-guided

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 > 

View all Germany bike tours >

Tour Company Background: AVE Travel: Guided

AVE a.s. , founded on April 22, 1990, is one of the biggest Tour operators in the Czech Republic. During its successful existence, the company has been growing dynamically, developing new services and improving the existing ones, and has been trying to meet the increasingly demanding needs of the customers. 

Since the year 2003 (141,515 customers, which makes it a Number Five on the TOP 50 Czech travel agents and agencies list according to the results of a survey carried out by MAG Consulting and COT media) is AVE a.s. one of the biggest company in travel industry in Czech republic. 

The number of our staff has been ranging from 120 employees since 1992. Our employees speak fluent English, German, French, Italian, Russian, Spanish. 

For the past ten years AVE has been organizing active holiday programmes for groups and individuals, especially guided and self-guided bike tours. 

Due to the boom in low-cost flights, the trend for active holidaying, the growth in the popularity of mountain biking and the yearly improvement and expansion of AVE services, we have been pleased to note a rapid growth in demand for our bike tours. In May 2004, a further reason to travel to the Czech Republic occurred when the country became a member of the European Union. Many visitors are interested not only in the capital, Prague, but also in the other popular tourist destinations including the spectacular countryside, the great outdoors and the national parks. 

Since foreigners are mostly interested in Prague, which is indeed a great destination in itself, they most frequently come by plane, rail or road to Prague. This is why our bike trips and tours start and finish mostly in Prague. Nevertheless, we can adapt the trips to your request, if you fly to/from Brno, Vienna or Dresden. 

Tour Company Background: AVE Travel: Self-guided

AVE a.s. , founded on April 22, 1990, is one of the biggest Tour operators in the Czech Republic. During its successful existence, the company has been growing dynamically, developing new services and improving the existing ones, and has been trying to meet the increasingly demanding needs of the customers. 

Since the year 2003 (141,515 customers, which makes it a Number Five on the TOP 50 Czech travel agents and agencies list according to the results of a survey carried out by MAG Consulting and COT media) is AVE a.s. one of the biggest company in travel industry in Czech republic. 

The number of our staff has been ranging from 120 employees since 1992. Our employees speak fluent English, German, French, Italian, Russian, Spanish. 

For the past ten years AVE has been organizing active holiday programmes for groups and individuals, especially guided and self-guided bike tours. 

Due to the boom in low-cost flights, the trend for active holidaying, the growth in the popularity of mountain biking and the yearly improvement and expansion of AVE services, we have been pleased to note a rapid growth in demand for our bike tours. In May 2004, a further reason to travel to the Czech Republic occurred when the country became a member of the European Union. Many visitors are interested not only in the capital, Prague, but also in the other popular tourist destinations including the spectacular countryside, the great outdoors and the national parks. 

Since foreigners are mostly interested in Prague, which is indeed a great destination in itself, they most frequently come by plane, rail or road to Prague. This is why our bike trips and tours start and finish mostly in Prague. Nevertheless, we can adapt the trips to your request, if you fly to/from Brno, Vienna or Dresden. 

Terms and Conditions: AVE Travel: Guided

Cancellation of the Travel Contract 
On the Client's Side-Cancellation must be made in writing. 

Cancellation rules in 2012

• Until 21 days before the tour start: 10% tour price 
• Between 20 days and 14 days before the tour start: 50% of tour price 
• Between 13 days and 7 days before the tour start: 80% of tour price 
• Between 6 days and arrival day or in case of interruption of the tour: 100% of tour price

This information is subject to our receipt of a written notification of your cancellation. 

AVE recommends that Clients purchase insurance against irrecoverable cancellation costs (in case of illness). 

Cancellation on AVE's Side 
AVE is responsible to the Client for providing the agreed services. In case of extraordinary circumstances, AVE reserves the right to change the program of the purchased tour and related services. In the event that AVE is unable to provide the agreed services, AVE is obliged to supply replacement services or secure a discount. The Client claims the discount in written or verbal form. AVE documents this by means of a letter of dispute. 

AVE Ltd. (hereinafter „AVE“) and the Client (hereinafter „the Client“) enter into an agreement in accordance with the Civil Code and the Commercial Code of the Czech Republic and with Law No.159/1999 CO. This agreement is further modified by the following AVE Booking Terms and Conditions, which are an integral part of the Travel Contract made between the Client and AVE. Upon conclusion of the Travel Contract, the Client agrees to the following conditions which are also relevant for fellow travelers as stated in the Travel Contract. 

Price of Tours 
Prices of tours are in EUROs (€), include VAT and statutory insurance in accordance with Law No.159/1999 St. against bankruptcy. Payments can also be remitted in any other transferable currency. 

Special Provisions Concerning Bicycle Tours 
By their nature, cycle tours allow for alternatives and a substantial degree of flexibility. Therefore, outline itineraries given for each bike tour must be taken as an indication of what each group should achieve, and not as a contractual obligation on the part of AVE. Changes to the itinerary may be caused by mechanical breakdown, weather, border restrictions, sickness, or other unforeseeable circumstances. 

It is a fundamental condition of joining any AVE bike tour that you accept this flexibility, and acknowledge that delays and alterations as well as their results, such as inconvenience, discomfort, or disappointment, are possible: AVE will always endeavor to provide suitable alternative arrangements. If it is impossible to make alternative arrangements, or if a passenger is unable or does not choose for good reasons to complete an itinerary outlined for a bike tour, AVE is not liable for supplying alternative itineraries, excursions, accommodation, services or staff for the period when the Client is not present with the group. However, AVE will arrange transportation back to Prague in these circumstances, if the Client wishes. 

On AVE cycle tours, it is essential that Clients abide by the authority of the tour leader, who represents AVE. Completing the AVE order form signifies the Client’s agreement to this, and if the Client commits any illegal act when on the bike tour, or if, in the reasonable opinion of the tour leader, the Client’s behavior causes or is likely to cause danger, distress or annoyance to him/herself or others, AVE may terminate the Client’s travel arrangements without any liability on AVE’s part. If the Client has any condition, medical or otherwise, that may affect his/her or other people's enjoyment of the bike tour, it is essential that he or she advises AVE of this at the time of booking. 

Before coming on the cycle tour, the Client must be covered by insurance, which must include adequate coverage for baggage, medical expenses and the cost of repatriation, should he or she become too ill to continue, including helicopter rescue and air ambulance. If the Client joins the bike tour without adequate insurance he or she may not be allowed to continue on the bike tour, with no right of refund. The Client is required to carry proof of insurance at all times and produce it if reasonably requested by AVE employees or suppliers. 

AVE is liable to the Client for any damage caused by AVE's failure to perform the terms of contract or by AVE's improper performance of the contract, unless that failure is: 

• Attributable to the Client or to a third party unconnected with the provision of the services and it is unforeseeable or unavoidable. 
• Due to unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control that could not have been avoided even if all due care had been taken or due to an event which even with all due care could not have been foreseen or forestalled. 

In the event of a bicycle (whether hired or not) being lost or delayed on the outward journey, AVE shall not be responsible financially or otherwise for the inability of the passenger to continue with their bike tour, or loss of enjoyment, unless such a loss or delay is due to the negligence of AVE or its staff and suppliers. AVE shall endeavor to make alternative arrangements for the Client, but if it is impossible to make alternative arrangements or if a passenger is unable or does not choose for good reason to accept such changes, AVE will arrange transportation back to Prague, if he or she wishes. 

Bike Rental Conditions 
The bicycle, including all accessories supplied, is let out on hire. The Renter undertakes not to misuse the bicycle and to return it with all accessories in the same condition as when received (ordinary wear and tear excepted). AVE shall be entitled to charge the Renter for any damage caused to the bicycle during the period of hire. In the event of a breakdown, other than as a result of the Renter's misuse, AVE will use its best endeavors to repair or procure the repair of the bicycle. 

Notwithstanding claims for personal injury or death, AVE shall not be liable for any damage or loss whatsoever, through breakdown or other defects in the bicycle or other circumstances beyond AVE's control. The Renter shall be liable to AVE with respect to all costs, claims, expenses and demands, which he or she may suffer or incur and which arise directly or indirectly from use of the bicycle during the period of hire. AVE reserves the right to charge the Renter for partial or full settlement of any such claim. In the event of the bicycle being stolen or lost, AVE reserves the right to call upon the Renter to be liable to AVE for the replacement value of the bicycle, being not less than 500 EUR (€). 

The Renter must be over 15 and under 75 years of age, and must ensure that the bicycle is adequately secured when not in use. He or she must not use the bicycle whilst under the influence of drink or drugs, and must endeavor to immediately notify AVE in the event of breakdown or loss of the bicycle. 

Complaints 
The Client has the right to complain in the event of imperfect or incomplete services. The Client must relay such complaint to the tour leader or to the provider of the services as soon as it happens, so that reparation can be made immediately. Whenever it is not possible to settle a claim on the spot, it is necessary to write a letter of complaint presenting the reason for the claim, the name of the person to whom the claim was made and the date of the claim. This letter of complaint has to be approved by the tour leader or by a services provider. The letter of complaint or verbal claim must be presented no later than three months after the end of the tour. The cancellation proceedings cannot be carried out and the claim cannot be accepted without a letter of complaint or by a verbal claim. 

Insurance 
Insurance for AVE bankruptcy according to the law 159/99St is included in the price of the tour. Arrangements for travel insurance (health insurance, insurance for harm done, baggage insurance, casualty insurance and insurance against irrecoverable cancellation costs) are the responsibility of the Client. The tour leader has the right to exclude a Client from the tour in the event of a breach of the law or a breach of the travel contract, or if he or she disturbs the tour in spite of previous warnings of the possibility of his or her exclusion from the tour. 

Validity 
By completing the Travel Contract the Client agrees that, if necessary, AVE may pass his or her confidential data to third parties who participate in the specific bike tour, which he or she has booked (for example, hotels). This information will not be used for any other purpose, nor will it be passed to any other parties. 
The booking conditions may only be waived or amended by written mutual agreement.

When the Client completes the order form he or she agrees to accept all these Terms and Conditions; when AVE accepts his or her booking, AVE agrees to carry out its obligations to him or her as defined in the information provided to the Client. Both sides of this agreement are made subject to and must be interpreted and enforced according to the non-exclusive law and jurisdiction of the Czech Republic. 

The AVE Booking Terms and Conditions for attending AVE tours come into effect as of April 1st, 2008 until the date of its change or its appeal. 

Terms and Conditions: AVE Travel: Self-guided

Cancellation of the Travel Contract 
On the Client's Side-Cancellation must be made in writing. 

Cancellation rules in 2012

• Until 21 days before the tour start: 10% tour price 
• Between 20 days and 14 days before the tour start: 50% of tour price 
• Between 13 days and 7 days before the tour start: 80% of tour price 
• Between 6 days and arrival day or in case of interruption of the tour: 100% of tour price

This information is subject to our receipt of a written notification of your cancellation. 

AVE recommends that Clients purchase insurance against irrecoverable cancellation costs (in case of illness). 

Cancellation on AVE's Side 
AVE is responsible to the Client for providing the agreed services. In case of extraordinary circumstances, AVE reserves the right to change the program of the purchased tour and related services. In the event that AVE is unable to provide the agreed services, AVE is obliged to supply replacement services or secure a discount. The Client claims the discount in written or verbal form. AVE documents this by means of a letter of dispute. 

AVE Ltd. (hereinafter „AVE“) and the Client (hereinafter „the Client“) enter into an agreement in accordance with the Civil Code and the Commercial Code of the Czech Republic and with Law No.159/1999 CO. This agreement is further modified by the following AVE Booking Terms and Conditions, which are an integral part of the Travel Contract made between the Client and AVE. Upon conclusion of the Travel Contract, the Client agrees to the following conditions which are also relevant for fellow travelers as stated in the Travel Contract. 

Price of Tours 
Prices of tours are in EUROs (€), include VAT and statutory insurance in accordance with Law No.159/1999 St. against bankruptcy. Payments can also be remitted in any other transferable currency. 

Special Provisions Concerning Bicycle Tours 
By their nature, cycle tours allow for alternatives and a substantial degree of flexibility. Therefore, outline itineraries given for each bike tour must be taken as an indication of what each group should achieve, and not as a contractual obligation on the part of AVE. Changes to the itinerary may be caused by mechanical breakdown, weather, border restrictions, sickness, or other unforeseeable circumstances. 

It is a fundamental condition of joining any AVE bike tour that you accept this flexibility, and acknowledge that delays and alterations as well as their results, such as inconvenience, discomfort, or disappointment, are possible: AVE will always endeavor to provide suitable alternative arrangements. If it is impossible to make alternative arrangements, or if a passenger is unable or does not choose for good reasons to complete an itinerary outlined for a bike tour, AVE is not liable for supplying alternative itineraries, excursions, accommodation, services or staff for the period when the Client is not present with the group. However, AVE will arrange transportation back to Prague in these circumstances, if the Client wishes. 

On AVE cycle tours, it is essential that Clients abide by the authority of the tour leader, who represents AVE. Completing the AVE order form signifies the Client’s agreement to this, and if the Client commits any illegal act when on the bike tour, or if, in the reasonable opinion of the tour leader, the Client’s behavior causes or is likely to cause danger, distress or annoyance to him/herself or others, AVE may terminate the Client’s travel arrangements without any liability on AVE’s part. If the Client has any condition, medical or otherwise, that may affect his/her or other people's enjoyment of the bike tour, it is essential that he or she advises AVE of this at the time of booking. 

Before coming on the cycle tour, the Client must be covered by insurance, which must include adequate coverage for baggage, medical expenses and the cost of repatriation, should he or she become too ill to continue, including helicopter rescue and air ambulance. If the Client joins the bike tour without adequate insurance he or she may not be allowed to continue on the bike tour, with no right of refund. The Client is required to carry proof of insurance at all times and produce it if reasonably requested by AVE employees or suppliers. 

AVE is liable to the Client for any damage caused by AVE's failure to perform the terms of contract or by AVE's improper performance of the contract, unless that failure is: 

• Attributable to the Client or to a third party unconnected with the provision of the services and it is unforeseeable or unavoidable. 
• Due to unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control that could not have been avoided even if all due care had been taken or due to an event which even with all due care could not have been foreseen or forestalled. 

In the event of a bicycle (whether hired or not) being lost or delayed on the outward journey, AVE shall not be responsible financially or otherwise for the inability of the passenger to continue with their bike tour, or loss of enjoyment, unless such a loss or delay is due to the negligence of AVE or its staff and suppliers. AVE shall endeavor to make alternative arrangements for the Client, but if it is impossible to make alternative arrangements or if a passenger is unable or does not choose for good reason to accept such changes, AVE will arrange transportation back to Prague, if he or she wishes. 

Bike Rental Conditions 
The bicycle, including all accessories supplied, is let out on hire. The Renter undertakes not to misuse the bicycle and to return it with all accessories in the same condition as when received (ordinary wear and tear excepted). AVE shall be entitled to charge the Renter for any damage caused to the bicycle during the period of hire. In the event of a breakdown, other than as a result of the Renter's misuse, AVE will use its best endeavors to repair or procure the repair of the bicycle. 

Notwithstanding claims for personal injury or death, AVE shall not be liable for any damage or loss whatsoever, through breakdown or other defects in the bicycle or other circumstances beyond AVE's control. The Renter shall be liable to AVE with respect to all costs, claims, expenses and demands, which he or she may suffer or incur and which arise directly or indirectly from use of the bicycle during the period of hire. AVE reserves the right to charge the Renter for partial or full settlement of any such claim. In the event of the bicycle being stolen or lost, AVE reserves the right to call upon the Renter to be liable to AVE for the replacement value of the bicycle, being not less than 500 EUR (€). 

The Renter must be over 15 and under 75 years of age, and must ensure that the bicycle is adequately secured when not in use. He or she must not use the bicycle whilst under the influence of drink or drugs, and must endeavor to immediately notify AVE in the event of breakdown or loss of the bicycle. 

Complaints 
The Client has the right to complain in the event of imperfect or incomplete services. The Client must relay such complaint to the tour leader or to the provider of the services as soon as it happens, so that reparation can be made immediately. Whenever it is not possible to settle a claim on the spot, it is necessary to write a letter of complaint presenting the reason for the claim, the name of the person to whom the claim was made and the date of the claim. This letter of complaint has to be approved by the tour leader or by a services provider. The letter of complaint or verbal claim must be presented no later than three months after the end of the tour. The cancellation proceedings cannot be carried out and the claim cannot be accepted without a letter of complaint or by a verbal claim. 

Insurance 
Insurance for AVE bankruptcy according to the law 159/99St is included in the price of the tour. Arrangements for travel insurance (health insurance, insurance for harm done, baggage insurance, casualty insurance and insurance against irrecoverable cancellation costs) are the responsibility of the Client. The tour leader has the right to exclude a Client from the tour in the event of a breach of the law or a breach of the travel contract, or if he or she disturbs the tour in spite of previous warnings of the possibility of his or her exclusion from the tour. 

Validity 
By completing the Travel Contract the Client agrees that, if necessary, AVE may pass his or her confidential data to third parties who participate in the specific bike tour, which he or she has booked (for example, hotels). This information will not be used for any other purpose, nor will it be passed to any other parties. 
The booking conditions may only be waived or amended by written mutual agreement.

When the Client completes the order form he or she agrees to accept all these Terms and Conditions; when AVE accepts his or her booking, AVE agrees to carry out its obligations to him or her as defined in the information provided to the Client. Both sides of this agreement are made subject to and must be interpreted and enforced according to the non-exclusive law and jurisdiction of the Czech Republic. 

The AVE Booking Terms and Conditions for attending AVE tours come into effect as of April 1st, 2008 until the date of its change or its appeal.