With our bikes as our trusty companions, we pedalled through bustling cities, serene countryside, and charming villages. Each day was filled with laughter, camaraderie, and the sheer joy of exploration. This journey was not just about the miles we covered but the memories we created, the bonds we strengthened, and the breathtaking beauty we witnessed. Shashidhar Bhat, Amit Singh Rahul Singh & Manish Salkade joined us en route for the cycling tour to make a total of 7 riders riding on this tour.
Join me as I relive this incredible experience, celebrating the spirit of adventure and the undeniable magic of discovering Germany on two wheels.
We landed in Berlin on 22nd Sept. We assembled our bikes on 23rd Sept, did test rides, riding through Berlin and also making our bikes and panniers ready for the month-long tour.
Day 1 – Berlin to Brandenberg
A Rainy But Memorable Start to Our German Cycling Adventure on 24th Sept 2024.
Our long-awaited cycling tour across Germany officially began today with a flag-off ceremony at the historic Brandenburg Gate. Joined by my daughter Simran, niece Nidhi, and her husband Parth, we were filled with excitement and anticipation about riding across Germany.
The first day of our journey proved to be a fantastic introduction to German cycling infrastructure. Berlin’s well-marked cycling paths and dedicated bike lanes made our ride enjoyable and safe. We were impressed by the country’s commitment to cycling, as we encountered numerous trails away from busy roads.
Although a light drizzle began to fall after a couple of hours, it didn’t dampen our spirits. The temperature was comfortable, hovering around 10-13 degrees Celsius. The day’s ride was truly mesmerizing, and we were continually amazed by Germany’s excellent cycling facilities.
A small highlight of our journey was a stop at a quaint 110-year-old village bakery. Enjoying freshly baked treats in such a charming setting was a delightful experience.
We concluded our first day in Brandenburg, having covered approximately 86 km. This is just the beginning of our month-long adventure through Germany. We can’t wait to see what lies ahead!
. Day 2 – Brandenburg to Magdeburg
Today’s ride is a veritable Forest Escape
Today’s ride was a dream come true for any cycling enthusiast. We started our day winding through lush green forests, following tranquil river paths, and enjoying the perfect blend of cool weather and good music. We ride from Brandenburg to Magdeburg.
The trails seemed to go on forever, and we wished they never would end. It was a pure joy to pedal through such scenic beauty. A quick stop at a local bakery was a delightful break, providing us with much-needed energy for the rest of the journey.
As the day progressed, we arrived in Magdeburg, a charming city that took us about an hour to explore by bike. With a total of 94 kilometers under our belts today, we’re feeling accomplished and excited for tomorrow’s adventure, which promises to be another blockbuster ride.
Day 3 – Magdeburg and Braunschweig exploring
A Rainy Day Bike Tour in Magdeburg
We decided to take a different approach to our trip, exploring the local trails and attractions of our starting and destination cities. Our adventure began in the morning as we set off to discover
Magdeburg’s hidden gems, starting with the iconic Green Citadel and a nearby church.
As our exploration continued, a light drizzle began to fall. Undeterred, we decided to take a break and enjoy a warm cup of coffee at a local café. While sipping our drinks, we took the opportunity to send postcards to our families back home, sharing our experiences and excitement.
Then we took a train to Braunschweig where we had a great time exploring Braunschweig later in the afternoon, riding around the city square, gardens and more.
Day 4 – Braunschweig to Hannover
A Day of Cycling Bliss in Germany
Today was another incredible day of cycling through Germany. The country continues to amaze us with its impressive cycling infrastructure and the respect cyclists receive from drivers. It’s truly a cyclist’s paradise!
The weather was perfect for a day on the saddle, with temperatures hovering around 12-15 degrees Celsius. Although we faced some headwinds for much of the day, it didn’t dampen our spirits.
Our route took us through a diverse landscape, from peaceful forests and fields to bustling towns and villages. The scenery changed every few kms, keeping us engaged and excited. We took a well-deserved coffee break in the charming town of Peine, where we indulged in some delicious pastries to replenish our energy.
By now, It’s clear that Germany is a cycling utopia, with countless bike tourists exploring the country’s beautiful trails and roads. We’re so grateful for the opportunity to experience it firsthand. Tomorrow, we’ll continue our journey and head to Minden. We can’t wait to see what adventures await us!
Day 5 – Hannover to Minden
Today was a chilly ride to Minden
Today, we started our day to explore the historic heart of Hannover before starting the tour ride. . The medieval, gothic, and Renaissance architecture of the Old Town Square was a captivating sight. However, the day had a chilly start, with temperatures hovering around 8 degrees Celsius. We layered up with thicker jackets and gloves to stay warm throughout the ride.
Our 70-kilometer journey to Minden was filled with few challenges. The cold temperatures persisted, and we faced headwinds and a few light showers along the way. Despite these obstacles, the ride was incredibly scenic. We pedalled through picturesque countryside, passing through numerous German villages and towns. The abundance of red brick houses in various shades was a striking feature of the landscape.
As with the previous days, today’s cycling experience was truly memorable. Tomorrow, we’ll continue our adventure, heading to Münster, Germany’s cycling capital. This historic city is renowned for its numerous monuments and buildings, promising another exciting day of exploration and we also have a rest day here.
Day 6 – Germany cycling tour
We planned to take a train to Munster and then ride on Munster’s famous 100 castles route. But one of our tour members had a tire problem which had to be replaced. So after just a few kms of riding, we had to cut short our plans for the day
Day 7 – Germany cycling tour
An Amazing day exploring Munster on 2 wheels
We had a planned rest day in Munster today. It was a bit chilly in the morning (around 8 degrees), so we layered up for warmth and couldn’t resist exploring the city’s amazing bike trails. Also, we had missed our Munster exploration ride yesterday. So we made the most of today.
Munster is a cycling paradise, with hundreds of kms of lanes weaving through woods, along rivers and lakes, and past charming countryside villages. The bike lanes are teeming with cyclists. It seemed that everyone in the city is a cyclist !!!
Overall We spent over 5 hours cycling, covering a ton of ground and discovering hidden gems like a few impressive castles. We could see why Munster is deemed to be the cycling capital of Germany.
Day 8 – Munster to Düsseldorf
We had a rainy Day Adventure from Münster to Essen
Despite a gloomy, rainy start in Münster, we embarked on our chilly journey to Essen. Temperatures dipped to between 7 and 10 degrees Celsius, but the rain didn’t dampen our spirits the picturesque German countryside, with its iconic red brick houses, lush forests, and charming villages, provided a beautiful backdrop to our ride.
A delicious Turkish lunch filled us up with warmth and energy before we continued our 90-kms journey to Essen. Today was a complete rain ride from start to end for us. From there, we hopped on a train to Düsseldorf.
Tomorrow, we’ll be tackling another long stretch, riding to Rheinbreitbach.
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Day 9 – Dusseldorf to cologne
We began our day with a bit of a setback. Technical difficulties with our bikes, including a flat tire, delayed our departure from Dusseldorf. By the time we were ready to roll, it was already late morning and starting to drizzle.
Despite the less-than-ideal conditions, we set off on our 90 km journey towards Unkel. The rain continued throughout the day, adding an extra layer of challenge to our ride.
A Rainy Stop in Cologne
Our first major stop was Cologne, a city renowned for its stunning architecture. Despite the rain, we managed to capture some memorable photos of the iconic Cologne Cathedral, a centuries-old masterpiece.
Given the late hour and inclement weather, we decided to cut our ride short and take a train to Unkel. This charming village, situated on the banks of the Rhine River, offered a peaceful respite from the busy city.
A Quiet Evening in Unkel
Unkel, with its small population and limited dining options, provided a quiet and cozy atmosphere. We enjoyed a late dinner at the only pizza restaurant open in the village, savouring the warm food and relaxing ambience.
Tomorrow, we’ll continue our journey along the Rhine River, heading towards Bingen.
Day 10 – Unkel to Rudenshein
Cycling the Rhine: A Day of Enchantment
Today, our cycling adventure took us along the picturesque Rhine River, offering breathtaking views of castles, charming towns, and rolling vineyards. The weather was perfect, with mild temperatures that made pedalling a joy.
We cruised past countless wineries, their vines cascading down the hillsides. The quaint town of Unkel greeted us with its morning sun, setting the tone for a day filled with idyllic riverfront cycling. A delightful detour led us to a Turkish bakery, where we indulged in delicious treats.
Our final destination, Rüdesheim, was a storybook German village brimming with tourists. Known for its exceptional wines, the town lived up to its reputation with wine shops lining every other street. After the day’s ride, We quickly went down to walk along the streets of this fairytale village with evening crowds.
This day of cycling along the Rhine has been a true highlight of our tour, leaving us with memories that will last a lifetime.
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Day 11 – Rudesheim to Heidelberg
Cycling through Germany’s Rhine Valley
Today, we embarked on another lovely bike ride in Germany, starting from the picturesque village of Rudesheim. After a brief exploration of the charming streets on our bikes, we set off along the scenic Rhine River.
The Rhine River, a constant companion on our journey, offered breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere. As we pedalled along the waterfront, the combination of the river’s gentle current and the surrounding landscapes created a truly magical experience.
Our route took us through the vibrant city of Mainz, where we paused for a refreshing coffee break. We then ventured into the countryside, cycling through picturesque fields and along dedicated bike trails.
As the day drew to a close, we arrived in Darmstadt, where we concluded our ride and boarded a train to our next destination, Heidelberg. Tomorrow, we’ll continue our cycling adventure with a shorter 55 km ride to Karlsruhe.
Day 12 – Heidelberg to Karlsruhe
A Day of German Cycling Adventures
Today, we embarked on a classic German tour ride, traversing a picturesque landscape of fields, forests, quaint villages, and endless bike paths. However, our day started off with a bit of a hiccup. One of our fellow riders experienced a mechanical issue with their rear wheel, requiring a quick detour to find a bike shop for repairs.
Luckily, we managed to get the bike back in working order by noon and were able to hit the road for our 55 km journey to Karlsruhe.
The ride itself was a delightful experience, filled with scenic trails and picturesque paths. The German countryside truly showcased its beauty, providing a serene backdrop for our cycling adventure. We entered Heidelberg among a long Cycling race track. It was a sheer delight to sprint hard on this track despite our heavy loaded bikes.
Tomorrow, we’re excited to continue our journey and explore the fascinating city of Strasbourg, which straddles the border between Germany and France. After that, we’ll enjoy a well-deserved rest day to recharge before our tour moves ahead.
Day 13 – Karlsruhe to Strasbourg
A Cold but Rewarding Ride
Today, we embarked on a chilly but scenic journey from Karlsruhe to Strasbourg. Despite the biting cold and wind chill, we set off with enthusiasm, our spirits warmed by the anticipation of exploring the French border city.
Before hitting the road, we took some time to admire the beautiful palace and other city monuments in Karlsruhe. Once we were on the move, we were treated to a delightful mix of trails and picturesque paths that made our ride truly enjoyable.
Unfortunately, being a Sunday, most bakeries and eateries were closed. However, we were lucky enough to stumble upon a small Turkish restaurant in a quaint village that provided us with a much-needed warm meal.
We arrived in Strasbourg around 4 PM, ready to rest and recharge after six days of continuous cycling. Tomorrow, we’ll enjoy a well-deserved day off before continuing our adventure.
Day 15 – Strasbourg to Freiburg
A Rainy Day Adventure, it turned out to be.
After a rest day yesterday, Our Germany cycling tour began with a chilly, rainy morning in Strasbourg, France. Undeterred, we set off along a picturesque 25-kilometer canal path, enjoying the vibrant autumn foliage.
After crossing the border into Germany, the rain intensified, making for a somewhat damp, but still enjoyable, ride. We covered 55 kms before calling it a day and hopping on a train to Freiburg.
The canal path was undoubtedly the highlight of today’s journey, offering a beautiful escape from the city. Despite the weather, it was a memorable day of cycling in France and Germany.
Day 16 – Freiburg to Donaueschingen
Germany black Forest Adventure
Today, we embarked on a truly extraordinary journey through the mystical German Black
Forest. Our legs burned and our lungs strained as we ascended over 3,500 feet, but every gruelling step was rewarded with breathtaking vistas, like any other cycling experience we’ve had in Germany, this was a visual feast for the senses. But very different. Towering trees, their emerald leaves shimmering in the sunlight, enveloped us on all sides. Our bike paths, like serpentine ribbons, wound through this lush green tapestry, creating a sense of adventure and wonder.
Exhausted but exhilarated, we finally reached the charming town of Donaueschingen at 7 pm, having conquered 65 kilometers and some truly challenging hills.
Tomorrow, we’ll trade the towering peaks for the gentle flow of the Danube River as we continue our enchanting journey through Germany.
Day 17 – Donaueschingen to Beuron
A Danube Dream: Day 1
Today, we embarked on a cycling adventure along the legendary Danube River, starting at its very source in Donaueschingen.
The Black Forest loomed in the distance as we pedalled through idyllic valleys, surrounded by lush green hills. The trail was a smooth, high-quality asphalt road, perfect for our two-wheeled journey.
After covering approximately 70 kms, we arrived at the charming village of Beuron. Nestled in a secluded valley, this quaint little town with its handful of houses offered a peaceful respite. We stayed in a Cyclist friendly hotel with a large bike showroom and service centre.
Tomorrow, we’ll continue our Danube River adventure, heading towards the historic city of Ulm.
Day 18 – Beuron to Herbertingen
After a peaceful night in the enchanting village of Beuron, nestled right along the Danube trail, we hit the scenic river trails again despite the crisp 8-10 degree chill. We wore our special Germany cycling tour jerseys which were a combination of the German colors with the Indian flag on the sleeve.
Under a dazzling blend of blue skies and fluffy clouds, the trails were a dream. We paused at a quaint, century-old café in a charming village where the owners shared mesmerizing local folk stories and legends with us.
In an unexpected twist, we stumbled upon an Indian restaurant in Sigmaringen for a delightful lunch. The town itself, adorned with a magnificent castle, was a pleasant surprise. Our journey continued, covering an additional 25 kms to Herbertingen before finally making our way to Ulm, our abode for the night.
Tomorrow, we indulge in a well-deserved rest day, featuring an all-day excursion to the fairytale-like Neuschwanstein Castle that we were all looking forward to.
Day 19 – Neuschwanstein Castle day trip
Our Neuschwanstein Castle day trip began with all seven of us cyclists hiring a van for the journey. After a picturesque two-hour drive through the Bavarian countryside, we arrived at the enchanting Neuschwanstein Castle.
This stunning 19th-century Romanesque Revival palace, commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, is perched majestically on a rugged cliff and is famously known for inspiring Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle.
As we approached, the grandeur of Neuschwanstein Castle was immediately evident. Its towering spires and fairy-tale appearance seemed almost unreal against the backdrop of the surrounding mountains. While the castle’s exterior is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful sights one could imagine, our guided tour inside revealed a fascinating glimpse into the history and lavish lifestyle of its creator, King Ludwig II. However, we all agreed that the real magic of Neuschwanstein lies in its breathtaking exterior views, more so than the ornate interiors.
Overall, the day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle was an unforgettable experience, combining the thrill of our cycling adventure with the awe-inspiring beauty and historical significance of this iconic landmark.
Day 20 – Ulm to Dillingen
Germany – Danube River Trail Continues to Enchant Us on day 3 of our ride from Ulm to Dillingen.
The trails are stunning, with autumn’s vibrant palette painting the landscape and a dramatic sky overhead. We set out a bit later than planned due to morning rains, finally rolling out at 10:30 AM to begin our ride.
By 1 PM, we stumbled upon a charming Sunday flea market in a quaint village, where we enjoyed a delightful lunch of Turkish breads, hummus, & other treats at a bustling food stall. The day’s only hiccup came when one of our riders had a flat tire, but no worries, we replaced the tube in no time and were back on our way.
Pedalling through picturesque trails and winding paths, we reached our destination, Dillingen, by 4:30 PM. This small town has many nice buildings and a striking cathedral. To our surprise, we found an Indian restaurant here and are looking forward to a delicious dinner tonight.
We all felt that The German cycling tour never ceases to amaze and every day seemed to present some new surprises and delights.
Day 21 – Dillingen to Treuchtlingen
A chilly and wet ride today from Dillingen to Treuchtlingen
Awaking to a brisk 3 degrees at 6 AM in Dillingen, we bundled up in full-finger gloves, thick jackets, and other cold-weather gear. The chill stayed with us all day, only to be joined by continuous rains after lunch.
Despite the elements, the familiar German countryside greeted us with its stunning skies, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle. Battling both cold and rain, we made our way to Treuchtlingen, our final cycling destination for the day.
Here we caught a brief train ride to Nuremberg – our stay for the night, where we have laundry to do and clean bikes before we proceed to our next destination.
Day 22 – Nuremberg to Berching
We began our day with a brief tour of Nuremberg’s old city, soaking in the history through its monuments, buildings, ancient city wall, and majestic fort.
Then, we embarked on a short but scenic ride to the captivating town of Berching. The weather was on our side, with clear skies and mild temperatures. Berching left us spellbound with its medieval charm; the entire town wall remains intact.
Locals shared that Berching’s first settlement dates back to 883, making it over 1,100 years old. Nestled in the district of Neumarkt in Bavaria, Berching sits on the Rhine-Main-Danube Canal. The town boasts well-preserved, colorful buildings that add to its picturesque allure.
A local cyclist took us on a thrilling steep mountain trail, where we discovered the surrounding areas and delved into its rich history. This mountain trail cycling will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of our tour.
Day 23 – Breaching to Kelheim
Beneath a brilliant sun, we set off from the picturesque town of Berching, taking our time to explore its charming cobbled lanes and capture the morning sun in photos. We have been riding on The 5 River Cycle Path in Bavaria’s breathtaking countryside…
Our first climb offered spectacular views of the valley below, a reward for our efforts. Passing through delightful towns and meandering paths, we enjoyed a riverside picnic lunch. Germany’s thoughtful touch of benches and picnic tables along cycling paths added a special comfort to our journey.
Arriving in the quaint Bavarian town of Kelheim, we wandered through the town square, admiring old buildings and local shops. Tomorrow, our adventure continues with a short ride along the 5 River Trail before reaching Regensburg.
Day 24 – Kelheim to Regensberg
We were treated to one of the nicest skylines today as we cycled from Kelheim to Regensburg. With our now typical parade of cycle paths and trails, the ride was an absolute joy. Kelheim, with its picturesque town square and vibrant atmosphere, had already captivated us. Nestled at the confluence of the Danube and Altmühl Rivers, it’s a hidden gem with a deep history.
As we reached Regensburg, we found that the the city has stunning medieval architecture and lively streets. We took a small tour of the old city, marvelling at the well-preserved historical buildings and the majestic Regensburg Cathedral.
Finally, we headed to the station to catch a five-hour train to Dresden, where we’ll have a much-anticipated break day tomorrow. The blend of stunning scenery and rich history continues to make this tour unforgettable. We have 2 days of riding to end the tour in Berlin.
Day 25 – Exploring Dresden on Cycles
Had an amazing day exploring Dresden on cycles!
We started our adventure at the magnificent Zwinger Palace, marvelling at its baroque architecture and beautiful gardens. Next, we ventured to the historic Dresden Castle, where we were captivated by the treasures of the Green Vault and the stories of the past. Cycling along the picturesque Elbe River, we admired the iconic Frauenkirche, a symbol of resilience and beauty.
Crossing into Neustadt, we absorbed the vibrant atmosphere of cafes, boutiques, and street art. The elegant Semperoper opera house was another highlight, showcasing Dresden’s rich cultural heritage. Our tour also took us to the serene Großer Garten, where we enjoyed our time spent there. Dresden is a blend of history, culture, and beauty. We made the most of our free day here. We ended the day with dinner at a lovely Indian restaurant.
Day 26 – Dresden to Senftenberg
As our epic cycling journey nears its end, with Berlin just a day away, anticipation is in the air. The second-to-last day of our tour greeted us with smooth asphalt roads and an unexpected treat: warm, sunny skies with temperatures between 16-20 degrees.
We made the most of this perfect weather, sprinting through scenic paths and lush woods to reach Senftenberg by 1:30 PM. Then we took a 2 hour train to reach Furstenwalde. Infact this was a comedy of errors. We were to book a hotel in Finsterwalde. By mistake, the booking was made in the similar sounding town of Furstenwalde – almost 100 kms away.
Tomorrow, we’ll embark on a flat ride to the iconic Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, marking the triumphant conclusion of this incredible adventure. The thought of cycling into the heart of Germany’s vibrant capital and then flying back home with amazing memories of the past 1 month. Onward to Berlin tomorrow
Day 27 – Furstenwalde to Berlin
On a perfect sunny day, we completed our month-long cycling tour of Germany with a final ride on cyclin9g paths across lovely woods. It seemed to us that Germany had kept the best for the last.
As we cycled through the final stretch and the majestic silhouette of the Brandenburg Gate came into view, a profound sense of accomplishment washed over us. Our 30-day journey spanning 1600 kms across the breathtaking landscapes of Germany had come full circle.
The Brandenburg Gate, standing as a symbol of unity and resilience, was the perfect bookend to our epic cycling tour, leaving us with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
This incredible tour has been packed with countless breathtaking experiences, taking us through gorgeous countryside, dense forests, scenic river trails, charming villages, and lovely towns.
We are completely convinced that Germany truly is a cyclist’s paradise, offering thousands of kms of dedicated bike paths, trails, and top-notch cycling infrastructure in every city and town we encountered. The diverse landscapes and picturesque routes were beyond anything we could have imagined cities like Munster have taken cycling friendly infrastructure to another level with every city and town making its cyclist friendly policies very seriously.
So taking back countless memories to cherish for years—each ride, each view, and each friendly face we met along the way. The support and kindness from the locals added an extra layer of warmth to our journey.
With 2 days spent in Berlin at the start for bike assembly, test and other preparations and 2 days after finishing the tour for bike packing and preparation to fly back to India with the bike, this 30 day tour has been an unforgettable adventure. The rides, roads, the views, the people—will cherish them always.