30 years of the Elbe Cycle Route
The Elbe Cycle Route is much more than just a route on the map – over the decades, it has grown into a cross-border travel experience that inspires thousands of people every year. Today, the route stretches for around 1,300 kilometres from the rugged Wadden Sea in northern Germany to the Czech Giant Mountains. No wonder the Elbe Cycle Route regularly appears in the top rankings of the most popular long-distance cycle routes.
Did the pioneers in the early 1990s have any idea what they were setting in motion in Saxony with a map, felt-tip pen and a dose of pioneering spirit? Probably not. But the small white ‘e’ on a blue background, which has since appeared more and more frequently along the route, soon became the symbol of a visionary project. As early as 1995 – after intensive discussions with representatives from Saxony, Hamburg, Cuxhaven and other regions – the official starting signal was given: the Elbe Cycle Route was to be developed and promoted as a cross-border tourist attraction. The foundation stone for a success story had been laid.
For us in Dessau-Roßlau, the Elbe Cycle Route is much more than just a cycle route – it is part of our identity. The proximity to the Elbe shapes the lifestyle of many locals, and for many, cycling is a natural part of everyday life. But visitors will also find much more than just a beautiful route here: the UNESCO Middle Elbe Biosphere Reserve is located directly on the trail, inviting visitors to linger and enjoy its unspoilt nature.
In addition, Dessau-Roßlau is home to one UNESCO World Heritage Site after another: the Elbe Cycle Route passes through five parks in the Garden Kingdom of Dessau-Wörlitz, as well as iconic Bauhaus sites such as the Masters’ Houses and the Bauhaus building itself. If you cycle further towards Lutherstadt Wittenberg, you will reach the next UNESCO World Heritage Site. This density of cultural highlights along a stretch of just 50 kilometres is almost unique.
And the figures speak for themselves: over 35,000 cyclists were counted in Aken and Coswig between May and October alone – impressive proof that the Elbe Cycle Route is a very special experience for many people.
We have compiled more information about cycle routes, bike hire and the region here.