The contrasts between northern Germany and Denmark don’t begin right at the border, but you’ll certainly notice them on this cross border cycling trip. From Germany’s vibrant, culturally rich and exciting capital of Berlin, you’ll cycle north to the coast via forests and lakes, hopping from glistening island to island, towards the Danish capital of Copenhagen. The route takes you along canals, through scenic coastal stretches and shady forest tracks. On occasion you will need to catch local trains and also a ferry to Denmark. Germany’s scattered lakes, peaceful wetlands and emerald forests provide a wonderful start for the cycling ahead. The Danish landscapes are vibrant in contrast, changing from cliff-lined coasts to white sandy beaches and where picturesque fishing villages alternate with majestic palaces and gorgeous manor-houses further inland.
Highlights
- Experiencing the gorgeous lake district of Germany
- The ferry from Rostock to the white cliffs of Møn Island
- The final leg along the coast to Downtown Copenhagen
- Discover two of Europe’s most fascinating capital cities
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive Oranienburg
On arrival in Berlin, take the S-bahn (commuter train) to Oranienburg, a journey of just under one hour. Tonight is spent in Oranienburg, however we do recommend that you book a pre tour night to explore Berlin further. There are numerous museums, monuments, parks and cityscapes to discover. The shopping and nightlife is also great to experience.
Day 2 Cycle via canals to Zehdenick or Fürstenberg & surroundings (35-75km/)
Today you cycle the Oder Havel Canal to the town of Liebenwalde, home to a museum set in a former prison. Continue alongside the canal to the pink town hall in Zehdenick before cycling on to Neuglobsow or Fürstenberg where you will overnight. (B)
Day 3 To Neustrelitz (45-78km)
Cycle to the legendary Lake Stechlin, immortalised in literature by Theodor Fontane. It is one of the area’s deepest, clearest lakes and home to the endemic dwarfed fish – and a perfect place to stop for a picnic. You will stay overnight in the lakeside town of Neustrelitz. (B)
Day 4 Cycle via the Müritz National Park en route to Waren (65km)
A highlight of today’s cycle is the Müritz National Park. Look out for eagles as you enter this beautiful national park, where more than 130 lakes are scattered amongst forest and wetlands. Visit the small village of Ankershagen, where Schliemann, who discovered Troy, grew up, and overnight near the lakeside town of Waren (or surrounds). (B)
Day 5 Cycle through forest to Krakow and Güstrow (45-69km)
Cycle through the peaceful Nossentiner Heide National Park, travelling through extensive forests towards the pretty lakeside town of Krakow am See. Not to be confused with the city of Krakow in Poland, Krakow am See is a small town set between lakes, farmland and forests. You then continue on to Güstrow, home of the expressionist sculptor and printmaker, Barlach. The afternoon is free to explore the old town and visit Barlach’s studio. Overnight Güstrow or surrounding region. (B)
Day 6 Cycle to Rostock (54-78km)
Today you will cycle along the Bützow-Güstrow-Canal. En route there is the option to shorten the cycle by taking any number of trains to Rostock (train tickets not included in the trip cost). Overnight in Rostock / Warnemünde. (B)
Day 7 Continue to Nykøbing/Falster by ferry and bike (40km)
This morning you can either cycle or take the train from Rostock to the harbour and board the ferry for a 2 hour cruise to Gedser, on the Danish island of Falster. Continue by bike across Denmark’s beautiful landscapes of dikes, small forests and pristine beaches to reach the city of Nykøbing. Overnight in Nykøbing. (B)
Day 8 Cycle across the coast to the Island of Møn (75km)
Cycle along the coast across easy terrain to the old merchant town of Stubbekøbing. We recommend taking some time to explore the town before boarding the ferry, which makes a quick stop at the island of Bogø before continuing to the island of Møn. Disembark and enjoy pedalling around quiet country roads and passing thatched houses, or stretch out on a beach by the Baltic Sea. Stay in the town of Stege on Møn. (B)
Day 9 Cross the bridge to Zealand and continue to Køge (50-69km)
Crossing the bridge from Møn to Zealand island the cycle continues north through coastal landscape, passing cottages and country houses. From either Fakse (50km) or Rødvig (68km), take a train to the town of Køge, just south of Copenhagen (train ticket not included). Overnight in Køge. (B)
Day 10 Cycle to Copenhagen (43-55km)
Today is the last cycle day of the tour, and you will travel along coastal paths to Copenhagen. You may like to visit the Museum for Modern Art in Ishøj. Copenhagen is an enchanting city. A visit to the Tivoli Gardens is a must, as is a stroll around the old harbour city. (B)
Day 11 Trip concludes
The trip concludes after breakfast in Copenhagen.(B)
Inclusions
- 10 breakfasts
- 10 nights small hotels and guesthouses on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities – hotel taxes extra
- 24 speed rental bike with pannier (8 speed on request or if 24 speed fully booked; electric bike available on request – supplement applies) Bikes are equipped with one pannier and repair kit, lock and pump per room. Odometers are available on request with advance notice – depending on availability, will be either per bike, room or group booked.
- Ferry between Rostock and Gedser
- Admission to the Müritzeum
- Luggage transfer to each hotel
- Welcome meeting
- Information pack including route notes and maps – one per room booked (GPS data available on request)
- Emergency hotline – 7 days, 8am to 8pm
UTX-BTC
Images courtesy of Utracks
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