The 13th century Breisach Cathedral towers imposingly over the bank of the Rhine. You cross the Rhine here to Neuf-Brisach in Alsace, a 17th century, octagonal fortified town. The day ends wonderfully in beautiful Colmar, one of the most delightful cities on the French wine route.

From Colmar we follow the French wine route. The dreamy wine-growing villages, with many Alsatian timber-frame houses, and magnificent mediaeval town centres in the midst of extensive vineyards are areas for unwinding, enjoyment and simply relaxing.

From Guebwiller, you ride to Ungersheim, till the Ecomusee d’Alsace. From here, the cycle path guides you directly to Mulhouse with its old town full of change. The largest automobile collection in the world and the Rail & Electricity Museum will inspire everyone, not just technology fans.

On the Euro-vélo 6 cycle path, follow the Rhône-Rhine canal to Illfurth and then cross the tranquil Sundgau. This region in the extreme south of Alsace is characterised by its beautiful half-timbered farmhouses, its many ponds and its shimmering landscapes. Finally, you will reach the Swiss city of Basel, which boasts a strong artistic identity and a high-quality cultural programme.

When you leave Basel, follow the cycle route north, parallel to the Rhine. You will reach Müllheim, where you can visit the Markgräfler Museum and the church of St. Martin with its 14th-century frescoes. From Müllheim, Badenweiler is very easy to reach: its castle and the remains of Roman baths are well worth a detour.

On this stage, you can visit the Villa Urbana and the castle of the Order of Malta in Heitersheim. Then the pretty spa town of Bad Krozingen at the gateway to the Black Forest. From there, the route heads towards Freiburg im Breisgau.

­Individual departure or extension