Elbe Cycle Route

Nature and culture along the Elbe river

The Elbe Cycle Route is one of Europe’s most beautiful and well-known long-distance cycle routes, offering a rich blend of nature, culture and history.

Stretching for around 1,270 kilometres, the cycle route follows the Elbe river from its source in the Czech Republic to its mouth in Cuxhaven. Around 840 kilometres of the path run through Germany, crossing seven federal states.

The Niedersachsen section showcases the region’s extraordinary natural diversity. From Cuxhaven on the North Sea coast, where the Elbe river flows into the open sea, the route continues through the scenic landscapes of the Altes Land, passing through nature reserves, orchards and historic half-timbered towns. Cyclists can take in the stunning scenery, sample local delicacies and soak up the maritime atmosphere.

In 2024, the Elbe Cycle Route was ranked the second most popular cycle route in Germany (ADFC Bicycle Travel Analysis).

Explore the Elbe Cycle Route

Elberadweg beim Stover Strand Camping — CC0 MarTiem Fotografie/ Flusslandschaft Elbe GmbH, Markus Tiemann

Radfahrer und Schiff — CC0 TourismusMarketing Niedersachsen GmbH, Dieter Schinner

Elberadweg bei Darchau — © Jürgen Borris

Elberadweg — CC-BY-NC TourismusMarketing Niedersachsen GmbH, Alexander Kaßner

Elberadweg beim Sonnenaufgang — CC0 Markus Tiemann/ Flusslandschaft Elbe, Markus Tiemann

Highlights along the Elbe Cycle Route

One river, countless experiences

Your journey begins at the Niedersachsen Wadden Sea UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along the right bank of the Elbe river, the route takes you through the Altes Land – the largest continuous fruit-growing region in northern Europe – which offers a spectacular natural display in springtime when the trees are in bloom. In the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Niedersächsische Elbtalaue, nature remains largely untouched. Here, at the former border between East and West Germany, plants and animals have been able to thrive undisturbed for decades.

Cuxhaven and the Wadden Sea

Luftbild vom Wattenmeer — CC0 Andreas Burmann Fotografie

Begin your journey in Cuxhaven, where the Elbe river meets the North Sea. The Wadden Sea UNESCO World Heritage Site offers breathtaking views and captivating encounters with nature.

Watch wading birds, breathe in the fresh sea air and visit the Kugelbake – Cuxhaven’s iconic landmark.

Cuxhaven Wattenmeer Elbmündung — © Martin Elsen

Drohnenbild von einem Apfelhof im Alten Land — CC0 TourismusMarketing Niedersachsen GmbH, Alexander Kaßner

Cuxhaven Beach — CC0 Francesco Carovillano

Kugelbake Cuxhaven — CC0 TourismusMarketing Niedersachsen GmbH, Florian Trykowski

Watt — CC0 TourismusMarketing Niedersachsen GmbH, Dieter Schinner

The Altes Land

Further upstream, the path leads through the Altes Land, northern Europe’s largest fruit-growing area. In spring, the region is transformed into a frothy sea of blossom. Visit charming villages, sample local apple specialities and enjoy the picturesque panorama of the Elbe marshes.

Stade – History and half-timbered charm

The Hanseatic City of Stade delights with its historic old town, full of half-timbered buildings and winding alleyways. Stroll along the old harbour or explore the town’s eventful past at the Schwedenspeicher Museum.

Biosphere Reserve Niedersächsische Elbtalaue

From Lauenburg onwards, the landscape becomes wilder and more untouched. The UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Niedersächsische Elbtalaue is a paradise for nature lovers. Cycle past lush meadows, spot rare wildlife such as white storks and otters, and savour the tranquillity of one of Germany’s most beautiful river landscapes.

A stop in Hitzacker – the jewel of the Elbtalaue floodplains – is a must. The charming old town, with its timber-framed houses, sits picturesquely on an island in the Elbe river. Visit the Archaeological Centre for a fascinating glimpse into the Bronze Age, or relax in one of the cosy cafés.