Berlin-Usedom Long-Distance Cycle Route
Charming house in Bernau, Germany
Spanning 339 kilometers from the vibrant heart of Berlin to the sunny shores of Usedom Island, this remarkable cycle route offers cyclists an extraordinary journey through the diverse landscapes of Brandenburg and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. The trail weaves through historical regions, pristine nature reserves, and coastal landscapes, providing an unparalleled exploration of northeastern Germany's natural and cultural treasures.
Route Characteristics
Forest road on the Berlin-Usedom Bike Route
The Berlin-Usedom long-distance cycle route winds through varied terrains, from the urban landscape of Berlin to the flat meadows of the Uckermark, and finally to the Baltic Sea coastline. The path primarily follows well-maintained cycle paths, secondary roads, and occasional unpaved forest and field tracks, making it accessible to cyclists of different skill levels.
Road Surface
Berlin-Usedom Cycle Path
- Well-maintained cycle paths throughout the route
- Mostly asphalt bike paths and quiet side roads
- Short sections of local concrete slab paths
- Unpaved forest and field paths in the southern part of Usedom Island
- Minimal elevation changes, suitable for recreational and touring cyclists
Difficulty
The route offers a moderate difficulty level, making it ideal for cyclists of various experiences. The terrain transitions from the urban environment of Berlin to flat meadows, then through forested areas, and finally to coastal landscapes. Most cyclists can complete the journey in 4-5 days, allowing ample time to explore the rich cultural and natural attractions along the way.
Highlights and Must-See Attractions
Cyclists will traverse through an incredible array of landscapes and historical sites, including:
Nature reserve on the way
- Barnim Nature Park and Schorfheide-Chorin Biosphere Reserve
- Historic castle Schloss Schönhausen
- The medieval town of Prenzlau
- The imperial resorts of Ahlbeck, Heringsdorf, and Bansin
- The oldest preserved sea bridge in Germany at Ahlbeck
- Numerous nature reserves and bird-watching locations
- The Szczecin Lagoon Nature Park
The route offers unique experiences like:
- Exploring the world's largest lowland beech forest in Grumsin
- Enjoying the maritime atmosphere of coastal towns
- Experiencing the "Sunshine Island" of Usedom with over 1,900 hours of sunshine annually
Route Segmentation and Overnight Stays
The Berlin-Usedom long-distance cycle route can be flexibly divided to suit individual preferences and cycling capabilities. Here's a suggested multi-day breakdown with recommended overnight stay locations:
Day 1: Berlin to Joachimsthal (Approx. 70-80 km)
Key Stops and Highlights:
- Start: Berlin-Mitte (Schlossplatz)
- Through Prenzl-Berg and Alt-Pankow
- Schloss Schönhausen
- Berlin-Buch
- Bernau
- Overnight: Joachimsthal
Scenic Features:
- Panke River
- Biesenthaler Becken Nature Reserve
- Werbellinsee and Grimnitzsee Lakes
Day 2: Joachimsthal to Prenzlau (Approx. 60-70 km)
Forest road on the Berlin-Usedom Bike Route
Key Stops and Highlights:
- Schorfheide-Chorin Biosphere Reserve
- Blumberger Mühle
- Steinhöfel Castle
- Oberuckersee
- Overnight: Prenzlau
Scenic Features:
- Grumsin Beech Forest
- Multiple small lakes
- Historical Uckermark landscape
Day 3: Prenzlau to Pasewalk (Approx. 60-70 km)
Key Stops and Highlights:
- Uecker River route
- Ellingen
- Werbelow
- Nieden, Schmarsow, Rollwitz villages
- Overnight: Pasewalk
Scenic Features:
- Flat meadows and pastures
- River landscapes
- Medieval town of Pasewalk
Berlin-Usedom Cycle Path
Day 4: Pasewalk to Ueckermünde (Approx. 50-60 km)
Key Stops and Highlights:
- Pine forests and heathlands
- Viereck (village church)
- Torgelow
- Eggesin
- Overnight: Ueckermünde
Scenic Features:
- Uecker River
- Stettiner Haff Landscape
- Coastal town atmosphere
Day 5: Ueckermünde to Usedom (Approx. 60-70 km)
Berlin-Usedom Cycle Path
Key Stops and Highlights:
- Optional ferry from Ueckermünde to Kamminke
- Anklam (Otto Lilienthal's birthplace)
- Ahlbeck (Kaiserbäder)
- Final Destination: Peenemünde
Scenic Features:
- Peene Valley
- Usedom Island
- Baltic Sea coastline
Flexible Options
- Shorter Stages: Can be broken into more segments
- Longer Stages: Experienced cyclists can combine days
- Alternative Routes: Ferries and transport connections allow for route modifications
Recommended for:
- Recreational cyclists
- Family groups
- Touring enthusiasts
- Those who enjoy leisurely exploration
The Berlin-Usedom bike route is more than just a cycling path – it's a comprehensive journey through the natural beauty, rich history, and cultural diversity of northeastern Germany. Whether you're a casual cyclist or an experienced touring rider, this trail promises an unforgettable adventure combining scenic landscapes, historical discoveries, and the unique charm of the German countryside and Baltic coastline.