The first in a two-volume set, this guide describes cycling the first half of the 1271 km Danube river from its source in the Black Forest to Budapest. The main route in this volume has been broken into 29 stages, averaging 44 km per stage. A fit cyclist, cycling an average of 90km per day should be able to complete the route in a fortnight. Suitable for all levels of cyclist, on all types of bike, the route is on a gentle downhill gradient, is mostly off-road and uses well-surfaced and dedicated cycle tracks or quiet country roads. With guidance on the plentiful accommodation and places to stop for food and drink en route. The Danube Cycle Way has become the most popular holiday cycle touring route in mainland Europe. Leading through Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary, the route visits spectacular gorges, hilltop castles, vineyard-clad hillsides and medieval towns.