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Mittellandroute (D4) - Bike Trail

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Route Statistics

Overview of route details and metrics

Distance

1061.9 km

Duration

70h 58m

Elevation Gain

11736m

Elevation Loss

11677m

Surface Type

Paved

90%

Unpaved

1%

Gravel

8%

Unknown

1%

Cycle path

25%

Back road

32%

Road

21%

Other

22%

Route Description

Detailed information about this route

D4 Mittellandroute: A Cross-Germany Cycling Route

Picture of Dresden. Photo by Vladimir Vins

Route Overview

The D4 Mittellandroute is a major cycling route that spans Germany from east to west, traversing four federal states: Saxony, Thuringia, Hesse, and North Rhine-Westphalia. The route showcases the diverse landscapes and interesting German cities. D4 often overlaps with other popular long-distance cycle routes.

Route Characteristics

Terrain and Difficulty

The route is moderately challenging and offers:

  • Rolling hills throughout the journey
  • Strategic positioning along the northern edge of the German Mittelgebirge
  • Varied elevation profiles, avoiding extreme climbs
  • Most challenging sections in Saxony with long, steep ascents
  • Balanced with flat stretches and gentle gradients throughout

Infrastructure

  • Predominantly follows quiet roads and dedicated cycle paths
  • Minimal exposure to major highways (approximately 50 km)
  • Excellent rail connectivity throughout the route
  • Sections in eastern Hesse and Saxony pending official route determination

Notable Highlights

Natural Attractions

  • Eifel National Park: Located near Aachen, offering stunning natural landscapes
  • Rothaar Mountains: Challenging climbs rewarded with spectacular panoramic views
  • Eisenburger Mühltal: An enchanting 8km stretch through dense forest with rest stops
  • Drei Gleichen: Unique landscape featuring three castle ruins on hilltops in Thuringia

Cultural Heritage

  • Traditional German architecture including:
    • Classic half-timbered buildings throughout
    • Unique Umgebindehäuser (Upper Lusatian houses) in the eastern regions
  • Historic city centers
  • Cultural landmarks and museums

Major Cities and Points of Interest

Key Destinations

  • Aachen: Historic imperial city with magnificent cathedral
  • Bonn: Former capital of West Germany
  • Marburg: Charming university town
  • Eisenach: Home to Wartburg Castle
  • Weimar: Cultural center with rich literary history
  • Jena: Historic university city
  • Dresden: Baroque architectural masterpiece

Thuringian Town Circuit

  • Historic town centers
  • Local wine tasting opportunities in the Saale-Unstrut region
  • Well-preserved medieval architecture

Planning Tips

Transportation

  • Train connections available throughout the route
  • Options to skip sections if time-constrained
  • Good accessibility from major transportation hubs

Best Time to Visit

  • Summer months
  • Spring and autumn provide comfortable temperatures and scenic landscapes

Accommodation and Services

  • Regular towns and villages for overnight stays
  • Good availability of bike shops and repair services
  • Frequent rest stops and refreshment opportunities
  • Well-marked routes with regular signage

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