The first in a two-volume set, this guide describes the first half of a long-distance cycle route that follows the entire course of the Danube, Europe's second longest river. This book covers the first 1270km of the 2900km entire course of the river, from its source in southern Germany's Black Forest to the vibrant city of Budapest.

Leading through Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary, the route visits spectacular gorges, hilltop castles, vineyard-clad hillsides and medieval towns. The route's highlights are in the three great imperial cities of Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest, where majestic royal palaces, soaring cathedrals and world-famous museums and galleries await.

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.

Mike Wells has been walking long-distance footpaths for 25 years, and a keen cyclist for 20. He has walked the major British paths, the GR5 from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean, and explored the Dolomites Alta Via routes in Italy. He has also walked in Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Norway and Chilean Patagonia. Starting with UK cycling routes, he soon moved on to long-distance routes in the rest of Europe and beyond, including a circumnavigation of Iceland and a ride across Cuba.