Brandenburg's cycling routes: from river paths to a 1,111-kilometre loop around the state
ADFC expert Tino Freißler recommends river paths, lake circuits, and long-distance trails from Berlin to Copenhagen, Dresden, and Prague.
A cyclist's paradise
Brandenburg's flat topography and over 11,600 kilometres of developed cycle paths make it one of Germany's most bike-friendly states, according to Tino Freißler of the Allgemeiner Deutscher Fahrrad-Club (ADFC). The combination of cycling, nature, swimming, and exploring small villages while sampling regional produce holds a special appeal, he said.
Overall, Brandenburg has the best conditions to become a cycling state.
River routes and lake circuits
Freißler particularly recommends the river paths. The Havel cycle route offers wide views across the water, while the Oder-Neiße path in the east runs along the dyke (with a tailwind you almost fly, with a headwind you need strong legs). In the south, the Spree cycle route passes through the Spreewald. For lake lovers, the Lusatian Lake District's Seenland Route circles 16 lakes.
For example, in the Lusatian Lake District, you can cycle around a total of 16 lakes on the Seenland Route. Here you get a wonderful insight into the largest man-made water landscape in Europe.
Other scenic spots include the Scharmützelsee, Schwielowsee in Potsdam-Mittelmark, and the Uckerseen near Prenzlau in the Uckermark.
Long-distance connections from Berlin
Cyclists starting in Berlin can reach Copenhagen, Usedom, or Dresden on well-developed long-distance routes that all pass through Brandenburg. The Berlin-Dresden path is currently being signposted, creating a marked route between the capital and the "Florence on the Elbe". From Dresden, riders can continue along the Elbe cycle route to Prague.
The latter is currently being signposted in Brandenburg, so that there will then be a signposted route between Berlin and the Florence on the Elbe.
The grand tour: 1,111 kilometres
For those with time, the Tour Brandenburg is the ultimate challenge. At 1,111 kilometres, it is Germany's longest cycle route and loops around the entire state, with the city of Brandenburg an der Havel as the designated starting point.
Where to find peace and wide views
Freißler's personal favourite is the Prignitz region in the northwest, which offers wide open spaces, beautiful views, and quiet. The popular Elbe cycle route also runs through this district, allowing riders to continue as far as Hamburg. Meanwhile, the Lusatian Lake District is currently the region most in demand among cycle tourists, according to Freißler's assessment.
In Prignitz you find a lot of wide open spaces, beautiful views and peace.
