Bike Cruise in Germany, from Berlin to the Baltic Sea
From the bustling city of Berlin with its northern forests, begin your journey sailing to Schwedt along the Oder-Havel Canal, passing through Oranienburg and Eberswalde. The tranquil and unique beauty of the Oder landscape will accompany you to the Polish city of Szczecin, renowned for its magnificent castle. The river then guides you along the distinctive Bodden coast through Usedom to Germany's largest island, Rügen, famous for its chalk cliffs. The final destination is the historic Hanseatic city of Stralsund.
What could be more delightful than relaxing on the sun deck, taking in the stunning landscapes as they pass by, and learning about the local culture, nature, and history on picturesque bike tours? Discover the diverse flora and fauna of these unique river landscapes, baroque castles, brick gothic architecture, and the charming seaside resorts of northern Germany.
Day 1: Arrival in Berlin
Arrive in Berlin on your own and embark at 4:00 pm. Berlin offers endless attractions worth exploring. You might enjoy a walk on the Kurfürstendamm, a stroll through the Nicolai Quarter on Spree Island, or a visit to the Brandenburg Gate. The city's possibilities are nearly limitless.
Day 2: Berlin to Eberswalde, bike tour, approximately 42 km
Your first bike tour takes you through the vast forests of the Ruppiner Lake District, following intricate waterways. The well-marked cycle path leads you north from the city to Oranienburg. The city's palace, one of the country's most significant Baroque buildings, and its adjacent park invite you to linger. Afterward, reboard and continue to Eberswalde, home to Germany's oldest operational lock in the city center.
Day 3: Eberswalde to Schwedt, bike tour, approximately 33 - 65 km
Start your ride along the towpath cycle route by the Finow Canal, passing through beautiful landscapes with forests, clearings, and small hills toward Niederfinow and its impressive ship lift. Return on board to sail to Schwedt, or for the adventurous, continue cycling through the crane resting area of the Auennationalpark from Hohensaaten to Schwedt (about 32 km).
Day 4: Schwedt to Szczecin, bike tour, approximately 28 km
Cycle through the unique cross-border "Lower Oder Valley International Park" via the Oder-Neisse Cycle Path. The former Criewen estate houses the National Park Center of Germany's only floodplain National Park. Upon reaching Mescherin, return on board and cruise to Szczecin (Stettin). Szczecin, at the mouth of the Oder River, is known for its green spaces and significant Baltic Sea port. Don't miss the castle of the Dukes of Pomerania in the old town.
Day 5: Szczecin to Wolgast, rest day on board
Spend the entire day aboard the boat. After navigating a final narrow passage, the boat reaches the expansive waters of the Bay of Szczecin (Oder Lagoon). Upon crossing, arrive in Wolgast, the "Gateway to Usedom Island." The medieval historic center, with its town hall and St. Petri Church, is a must-see.
Day 6: Wolgast to Lauterbach, bike tour, approximately 15 - 25 km
Choose from three cycling routes on Usedom Island. The short route takes you directly to Zecherin and then to Peenemünde, allowing ample time to explore the Historical-Technical Museum. Alternatively, take a longer route via Karlshagen with a detour to the Baltic Sea, or the extended "beach route" through the Baltic Sea resorts of Zinnowitz and Trassenheide. Depart from Peenemünde around 6:00 pm and arrive in Lauterbach in the southeast of Rügen by 9:00 pm.
Day 7: Lauterbach to Stralsund, bike tour, about 48 km
Visit Putbus, known for its classical buildings lining a circular square. Cycle through Putbus, Garz, Groß Schoritz (birthplace of Ernst Moritz Arndt), Poseritz, and Gustow, crossing the Rügen Dam to Stralsund. In Stralsund, explore the historic center, situated on an island, featuring numerous exceptional sights.
Day 8: Departure from Stralsund
After breakfast, disembark by 9:00 am and depart individually.
