We've recently added some new trips to our 'active holidays' section that involve cycling along the river Elbe. This waterway runs throughout much of Germany and even into the Czech Republic, as it flows from just outside Prague, through Saxony, Lower Saxony and Saxony-Anhalt, and out into the North Sea near Hamburg.
There are seven different trips in total, which involve cycling or walking along certain sections of the river, but here is a closer look at just a few of them.
Where:
Cycling from Bad Schandau to Dessau
For How Long:
8 days
Highlights:
Why not relax in the beautiful spa town of Bad Schandau before you start your cycling tour? The German word 'Bad' means spa in English and so there'll be plenty of places to take it easy before you begin pedalling. The Toskana Thermal Baths can provide a soothing place to unwind, whilst the expansive botanical gardens are the perfect place for a gentle stroll.
As you leave Dresden and head towards Meissen, on the second leg of your tour, you will slowly see something getting bigger and bigger on the horizon. This is, of course, Albrechtsburg Castle, which has been at the centre of the town since the 10th century. Meissen is also famous for its porcelain, which you can see for yourself at both the Museum of Meissen Art and the Porcelain factory.
As you cycle on the final leg of your journey, from Lutherstadt Wittenberg (named in honour of Martin Luther King) to Dessau, you will pass through the beautiful Wörlitzer Park. This is one of the first English gardens in continental Europe and offers plenty to see and do. You can visit the Wörlitz Palace, take a boat out on the Wörlitz Lake, and even witness an eruption of Europe's only artificial volcano.
Where:
Cycling from Hamburg to Berlin
For How Long:
10 days
Highlights:
Be sure to explore the historic city of Hamburg before you depart on your cycle tour. This Hanseatic highlight can offer so much; you might not know where to start. Your choices include heading to the port and harbour area; checking out the town hall, shops and other attractions around the Jungfernstieg; and discovering the nightlife of the Reeperbahn.
Halfway through your tour, you will leave the Elbe cycle path and head along the Havel River towards Berlin. At the point where the two waterways meet, you'll find the charming town of Havelberg. Relax amongst the stunning greenery of this quiet place and explore the part of town which exists on an island in the middle of the river.
As you head towards your final stop of Berlin, you will reach the town of Brandenburg an der Havel (not to be confused with Brandenburg State). It is built across multiple lakes and canals and so offers a delightful place to take a cooling dip following your tiresome journey. Brandenburg an der Havel is also home to many interesting museums and is a place where you can see some of the best preserved medieval fortifications in the Germany.
Where:
Cycling from Prague to Dresden
For How Long:
8 days
Highlights:
This tour will start with two full days in Prague, giving you some extended time to explore the Czech capital. There is an abundance of striking architecture on display in the city, including the largest ancient castle in the world and a collection of beautiful bridges. There's also the famous astronomical clock, the Old Town, a whole host of museums and one of the best zoos in Europe.
As you leave Prague, with the Vltava River alongside you, the central Bohemian wine region is laid out in front of you. The small town of Melnik is the perfect place to sample some of the local grapes, as wine is produced in abundance here. The hilltop Renaissance style castle is also worth a visit whilst you're in town.
As you exit the Czech Republic and enter Germany, your ride is sure to be a scenic one, thanks to the glorious backdrop of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains. This area is a designated national park and you will be riding past all sorts of terrain, including valleys, forests and cliffs.
Many of these tours can be taken in reverse as well as in the order featured on our site. Flights and transfers are not included in the prices you see quoted, but we can add then and also include bicycle hire too. If you would like any more information on our Elbe cycle tours, please call our knowledgeable team today.
