Explore the best cycling and bike touring routes in Raleigh, from scenic greenways to wooded trails and smooth city rides—perfect for a vacation on two wheels.
WHAT ARE THE MOST SCENIC CYCLING TOURS IN GERMANY?
Germany is a cycling paradise, offering everything from flat riverside paths to breathtaking alpine ascents. With well-maintained infrastructure, signposted routes, and diverse landscapes, the country caters to both casual riders and endurance adventurers. Whether you want to glide along vineyards, trace medieval castles, or tackle mountain passes, Germany’s cycling tours combine cultural richness with natural beauty. This guide highlights the most scenic routes, giving you practical insights into distances, difficulty levels, and highlights along the way.
Riverside routes and wine country
Germany’s river valleys provide some of the most picturesque cycling tours in Europe. Flat terrain, charming towns, and endless vineyards make them accessible to riders of all levels. These routes combine easy pedaling with cultural immersion, offering plenty of opportunities to stop for wine tastings or castle tours along the way.
The Rhine and Moselle tours
The Rhine Cycle Route (EuroVelo 15) stretches from Switzerland to the North Sea, but its German section is particularly breathtaking. Riders pass through Lorelei Rock, the UNESCO-listed Upper Middle Rhine Valley, and towns like Bacharach and Rüdesheim. Equally enchanting is the Moselle Cycle Route, known for its winding path along vineyard-clad hillsides, medieval villages, and fairytale castles perched above the river.
Rhine Cycle Route: castles, vineyards, and UNESCO heritage
Moselle Cycle Route: river bends framed by vineyards
Elbe Cycle Route: Dresden’s baroque architecture to the North Sea
These riverside tours are ideal for multi-day journeys, with excellent bike-friendly accommodations and easy train connections. They also appeal to food and wine lovers, offering a perfect balance of cycling and cultural indulgence.
Historic and cultural landscapes
For riders who want history and culture woven into their routes, Germany offers themed cycling tours that trace trade routes, fairy tales, and architectural landmarks. These tours provide more than scenic beauty—they connect cyclists with the country’s deep heritage.
The Romantic Road and beyond
The Romantic Road Cycle Route follows the iconic 460 km trail through Bavaria, linking medieval towns like Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Augsburg, and Füssen near Neuschwanstein Castle. The route blends rolling countryside with historical architecture, offering cyclists a living postcard of Germany’s past. Another gem is the Berlin–Copenhagen Route, a cross-border path mixing urban exploration with serene lakes and forests.
Romantic Road: castles, walled towns, and Bavarian charm
Berlin–Copenhagen Route: lakes, forests, and cultural capitals
Fairy Tale Route: inspired by the Brothers Grimm stories
Cyclists on these tours enjoy more than landscapes; they engage with Germany’s storytelling traditions, architectural wonders, and cultural milestones. These routes are best suited for riders seeking a slower pace that allows frequent stops to explore heritage sites.
Mountain and adventure cycling
For thrill-seekers and fitness-focused riders, Germany’s alpine and upland regions deliver demanding but rewarding tours. With steep climbs, fast descents, and panoramic views, these routes showcase the rugged side of German cycling. While more challenging, they remain accessible thanks to excellent signage and infrastructure.
From the Alps to the Black Forest
The Allgäu Alps and Bavarian Alps offer iconic climbs, where cyclists can test themselves on routes used in pro races or enjoy e-bike-friendly ascents with breathtaking lake and mountain views. The Black Forest Panorama Route combines dense forests, rolling hills, and cultural villages like Freiburg. Another highlight is the Bodensee–Königssee Route, stretching across southern Bavaria with constant alpine backdrops.
Allgäu and Bavarian Alps: challenging ascents with alpine lakes
Black Forest Panorama Route: forest climbs and cultural gems
Bodensee–Königssee Route: Bavaria’s alpine showcase
These adventure-focused routes require stronger fitness or e-bike assistance, but the payoff is unmatched: alpine vistas, cultural immersion, and the satisfaction of conquering Germany’s most dramatic landscapes. They’re ideal for riders looking to push limits while experiencing the country’s natural beauty.
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