The Elbe Cycle Route

Cycle one of Europe’s great river routes on the Elbe Cycle Route, following the River Elbe from the Czech border through eastern and northern Germany to the North Sea. This largely traffic-free long-distance cycle ride traces a scenic course through dramatic sandstone landscapes, vineyard-covered hills, historic towns and vibrant cities, making it ideal for touring cyclists of all abilities. Covering approximately 1260km (780 miles) from the Czech border to Cuxhaven on the North Sea, the Elbe Cycle Route is typically completed in around three to four weeks. This guidebook divides the Elbe Cycle Route into 29 manageable daily stages, allowing riders to tailor distances to suit their pace, with most days offering flat or gently graded riding along well-signposted riverside cycle paths. From the dramatic Elbe Sandstone Mountains of Saxon Switzerland, the Elbe Cycle Route continues downstream through Dresden, Meissen and Magdeburg to Hamburg and the wide North Sea estuary, with excellent rail links enabling flexible start and finish points for those riding shorter sections. Detailed stage-by-stage route descriptions of the Elbe Cycle Route, guiding you from the Czech border to the North Sea with clear daily distances, terrain notes and practical navigation advice. Clear 1:150,000 mapping and navigation guidance specifically tailored to the Elbe Cycle Route, helping cyclists follow signposted riverside paths, quiet roads and traffic-free sections with confidence. Downloadable GPX files enable easy digital navigation on GPS devices or smartphone apps. Comprehensive information on accommodation and campsites along the Elbe Cycle Route, including bike-friendly options, refreshment stops and essential services for touring cyclists. Practical advice for planning and riding the Elbe Cycle Route, covering transport connections, rail access, luggage transfers and tips for organising a full end-to-end journey or sectional ride.