Cycling the Mainschleife: Loop Tour, Ferries & Rentals
35 kilometres through vineyards, across ferries and through wine villages: the Volkach Mainschleife tour is one of Franconia's finest cycle routes. Route details, ferries and e-bike rental.
The Main Cycle Path runs right through the Mainschleife near Volkach. If you want more than just passing through, set aside a day for the loop tour.
The Volkach Mainschleife Tour (35 km)
The main loop starts at the Mainbrücke in Volkach and heads via Astheim to the Vogelsburg, then past the famous Escherndorfer Lump to Escherndorf, on through Köhler and Neuses am Berg to Dettelbach. From there the route continues via Schwarzach and the Weininsel with Sommerach and Nordheim back to Volkach.
About 336 metres of elevation gain, almost entirely on tarmac. Only between Sommerach and Schwarzach is there a short gravel section. A reasonable level of fitness is enough — no special cycling skills required. Plan a full day so you can enjoy the wine villages and viewpoints along the way.
The Ferries
Two Main river ferries make the loop possible:
Nordheim–Escherndorf Ferry: A cable ferry for pedestrians, cyclists and cars. First ferry charter dates from 1575. Bicycles cost €1.50 per crossing. In summer (April to October) weekdays 6 am to 8 pm, Saturdays from 7 am, Sundays from 9 am.
Fahr–Kaltenhausen Ferry: A free-running ferry between the Volkach district of Fahr and Kaltenhausen. Operates year-round except during floods and ice.
E-Bike Rental in Volkach
Zweirad Weißenseel (Im Seelein 14, Volkach): E-bikes for €35 per day, regular bicycles for €15. Booking recommended, tel. 09381 3988.
Segway Weinfranken (Am alten Bahnhof 8, Volkach): E-bike rental and guided tours. Pick-up the evening before between 5 and 6 pm possible. Tel. 0160 96417969.
E-bikes are popular in the region. Booking ahead is worthwhile, especially at weekends.
Shorter Alternatives
If 35 kilometres sounds like too much, the Weininsel between Nordheim and Sommerach makes a pleasant short loop. Or ride the Main Cycle Path in one direction and take the MS Undine back.
After the ride, the hotel's pool and sauna await. If you are hungry, the Restaurant 1917 serves Franconian cuisine paired with wines from Weingut Römmert.
This article is part of our Mainschleife Guide with all the tips for your stay at the Mainschleife.