Elbe Cycle Path

In the southern section, the Elbe Cycle Route often runs right alongside the river. The rocky landscape of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains provides a stunning backdrop. But the vineyards, castles, fortresses and gardens are also charming. There’s no doubt about it: our favourite section of the Elbe Cycle Route is the route from Prague to Dresden! Further north, the Elbe Cycle Route takes a few detours into the hinterland. In the northern section, the Elbe Cycle Route often runs along or behind the Elbe dykes.

The Elbe Cycle Route is just under 1,300 kilometres long. Our guests usually cover this route in three stages, with luggage transport:
1. Prague – Dresden (8 days),
2. Dresden – Magdeburg (8 days) and
3. Cuxhaven/Hamburg – Magdeburg (8 days).
For the more athletic, you can complete the Elbe Cycle Route in 8 days from Hamburg to Dresden.

The gradient on the Elbe Cycle Route is manageable, so you can cycle both upstream and downstream. It’s worth keeping an eye on the wind direction along the Elbe: between the North Sea and Magdeburg, it’s therefore advisable to plan your cycle trip against the current. That way, the headwind will be less severe. Between Prague and Magdeburg, there are often winds from all directions, so both directions are suitable.

TIP: At the source of the Elbe, you should cycle downstream due to the topography. Due to the difference in altitude, the source of the Elbe can be reached either on foot from Spindlermühle, by chairlift (you can take your bike with you), or from Vrchlabí by bike bus. The source is located in the core zone of the national park and the final few metres can only be covered on foot and not by bike.

To make sure you don’t forget anything, we’ve put together a checklist for your cycling holiday. If you’ve booked your cycling holiday with AugustusTours including luggage transport, you’ll also receive a pack of travel documents containing plenty of useful tips to help you prepare for your cycling holiday.