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The Gurkenradweg: Discover the beauty of the Spreewald on two wheels!

Dive into the magical world of the Spreewald and experience the fascination of the Gurkenradweg (cucumber cycle path)! This unique cycle route leads through the beautiful landscape of Brandenburg, past idyllic rivers, forests and picturesque villagesThe Gurkenradweg (Cucumber Cycle Route) offers not only many natural experiences, but also insights into the culture and history of this region. Whether Family outings, adventurous bike tours or culinary discoveries: This route in the Spreewald is a unforgettable experience for all cyclists. Find out more about the Gurkenradweg (Cucumber Cycle Route) and plan your adventure now!

synopsis
Important information
Map of the Gurkenradweg
distance table
Regional highlights of the Gurkenradweg

The most important information about
Gurkenradweg at a glance

  • Length: 260 km
  • Number of stages: five stages
  • Difficulty: light
  • Quality: predominantly very good quality
  • Signage: The Gurkenradweg (Cucumber Cycle Route) is generally marked by a uniform yellow-green pictogram that guides cyclists. This logo depicts a cucumber on a bicycle and is prominently displayed along the entire route. However, it is recommended to have a map or GPX data with you during your bike ride.
  • Topography: mostly asphalted, partly gravel or field paths
  • Altitude: 678 meters uphill and 675 meters downhill
  • Most beautiful section: We from the Mecklenburger Radtour find the section between Lübbenau and Lehde in the Spreewald the most beautiful. Here, there are dense forests, large meadows, and a complex network of rivers and canals. Typical Spreewald houses with their characteristic thatched roofs line the route, and along the canals, you can observe the traditional boatmen.
  • Where does the Gurkenradweg start and end? The traditional Gurkenradweg (Cucumber Cycle Route) begins and ends in Lübben (Spreewald). See the stages here.
  • Travel time spring: Spring is a great time to explore the Gurkenradweg (Cucumber Cycle Path). Nature comes alive at this time of year. Temperatures are pleasantly mild, ideal for cycling through the landscapes of the Spreewald.
  • Travel time summerSummer is the most popular time to travel the Gurkenradweg (Cucumber Cycle Route). The days are long and warm, and nature is in full bloom. It's the perfect time to cycle along the rivers and canals, take boat trips, or participate in events in the Spreewald.
  • Travel time autumn: Autumn is a beautiful season in the Spreewald, when the landscape is bathed in warm colors. Temperatures are still pleasantly mild and there are fewer tourists than in summer. Therefore, autumn is ideal for peaceful bike rides through nature.

Route of the
Gurkenradweg

Karte des Gurkenradwegs
Gurkenradweglogo

Our most popular cycling tours

You would like to use the Gurkenradweg with optimal comfort explore? Then we recommend one individual cycling trip familiar with the Mecklenburger Radtour: This doesn't just include overnight stays, but also the comfortable luggage transport carefully arranged for you.

Route of the Gurkenradweg

Use the Gurkenradweg map to get a first impression of the scenic diversity of this circular tour.

The Gurkenradweg (Cucumber Cycle Route) begins and ends in Lübben in the heart of the Spreewald. The approximately 260-kilometer circular route leads through well-known towns such as Lübbenau, Leipe, Burg (Spreewald), Straupitz, Schlepzig, Lieberose, Vetschau, Cottbus, and the Peitzer Land region.

The route runs largely through the UNESCO Spreewald Biosphere Reserve and connects quaint villages, unspoiled floodplain landscapes, and traditional cultural sites. Thanks to its flat paths and well-developed trails, the Gurkenradweg is ideal for leisurely cyclists, families, and anyone who wants to explore the region in a relaxed manner.

grüne Karte vom Elbe Radweg von Cuxhaven bis nach Tschechien

Distance tables Gurkenradweg

When planning a bike tour on the Gurkenradweg, the distances between stages are important. To help you estimate how long it will take, or whether a longer break or overnight stay is necessary, we'll show you the stages and distances.

Stages on the Gurkenradweg
HomeObjectiveRemovalEstimated time
LuebbenCottbus50 km4 Std.
CottbusCastle50 km4 Std.
CastleSloppy50 km4 Std.
SloppyKrausnick55 km4,25 Std.
KrausnickLuebben55 km4,25 Std.


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The regional highlights of your bike tours in the Spreewald

On your bike tours through the Spreewald you will discover many small towns, but also larger villages and towns that have been around for centuries of the nature and culture of the Spreewald geprägt became. Every place offers einzigartige Sights and highlights, which are absolutely worth your visit. Convince yourself and start cycling!

Haus am Wasser auf dem Gurkenradweg

Cottbus: the city of parks

Cottbus, in Lower Sorbian Chóśebuz, is the second largest city in Brandenburg and known for her Sorbian culture and traditions. The city offers many extensive parks, such as the Fürst-Pückler-Platz and is also a ideal place for cycling along the rippling Spree. The landscape in and around Cottbus is exceptional and offers many interesting sights such as the Spreewehrmühle, the Cottbus Zoo and the imposing Upper Church of St. Nicholas. 

Blick auf Cottbus, Teil des Gurkenradwegs

Castle in the Spree Forest

Burg in Brandenburg is a Health resort in the Spreewald and ideally suited to the after a long bike ride to let your soul dangle.  Spreewaldtherme offers a sauna and bathing area that invites you to relax and a Beneficial for body and soul is - especially after a fantastic bike tour through the Spreewald. There are also many in Burg traditional Spreewald houses to marvel at, which take visitors back to another time. If you want a little more action, do it Excursion to the Bismarck Tower. Thus Burg offers a perfect mix of physical Activity, recreation and culture.

Fluss im Ort Burg

Lübbenau: the Sorbian cultural metropolis

Luebbenau in Brandenburg is considered Sorbian metropolis and is known for its rich history and culture. Especially that Castle Park invites to Marvel, relax and walk In addition, the Spreewald village Lehde as a unique lagoon city in small format the life of the people in the beautiful nature of the Spreewald. The calm and idyllic atmosphere in Lübbenau is therefore ideal for a break from everyday life and offers pure relaxation!

boote auf fluss in lübbenau

The resort of Lübben

Just a stone's throw away lies the tranquil Lübben, which in comparison to the "more urban" Lübbenau as quiet is applicable. One of the most famous sights in Lübben is the Castle Island, on which this Lubben Castle located. With the castle, the gardens and the proximity to the Spree, the island is a popular destination. Another highlight is the possibility of using the typical Spreewald boats to drive on the Spree and the Landscape from a different perspective Lübben is a place where you can Connect nature and culture and relax in the quiet of the city.

Luftaufnahme von Lübben

Sights along the Gurkenradweg

Old town of Lübben: Along the Gurkenradweg cycle path lies the old town of Lübben, which exudes a special charm with its cobbled streets and historic buildings.

Old town of Lübbenau: The old town of Lübbenau invites you to stroll and offers a variety of cozy cafés and shops.

Lübbenau CastleAlong the Gurkenradweg cycle path lies Lübbenau Castle, built in the Renaissance style. Today it houses a museum. and offers visitors the opportunity to learn more about the history of the region.

Princely Drehna CastleThis imposing baroque palace is located near the Gurkenradweg (Gherkin Cycle Path) and is surrounded by a large park. It offers insights into the region's history and architecture.

Spreewald farms: The Spreewald region boasts numerous traditional Spreewald farms that can be visited. These farms often feature thatched roofs and offer insights into traditional life in the region. Visitors can explore the ornate facades and stroll through the extensive gardens.

Lehde Open-Air Museum: The Lehde Open-Air Museum in the Spreewald is a museum that shows visitors how people in the Spreewald used to live and work. 

The historic town center of PeitzCharacterized by medieval architecture and charming alleyways, this historic town offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. Visitors can stroll through the narrow streets, admire historic buildings, and experience the unique atmosphere of this city.

Vetschau Castle: Vetschau Castle towers majestically above the town and is a true jewel of the region. With its architecture and magnificent castle gardens, it is a popular destination for history buffs and nature lovers. 

Triple windmill in StraupitzAs one of the few surviving triple-pitched windmills in Europe, this engineering masterpiece is a stunning testament to the past. Visitors can tour the mill from the inside and enjoy the breathtaking views from the gallery.

leisure offers

The Gurkenradweg (Cucumber Cycle Path) not only offers ideal cycling conditions, but also a wide range of recreational opportunities to suit every taste. Whether active on the water, culinary indulgence, or cultural inspiration – the Spreewald can be experienced in a variety of ways along the route.

Canoeing

The Spreewald is a paradise for canoeists, offering a vast network of streams and canals, perfect for exploring on the water. Whether leisurely family tours or sporting challenges – everyone will find the right route here. Popular starting points for canoe tours are towns like Burg, Lübbenau, Leipe, Lübben, and Schlepzig. Along the way, you'll pass romantic houses, hand-operated locks, and wooden bridges that make up the special charm of the Spreewald. Discover the Spreewald canoe trips!

Kanufahren auf dem Gurkenradweg

Culinary experiences

Numerous culinary highlights await you along the Gurkenradweg (Gherkin Cycle Path). From freshly pickled Spreewald gherkins to regional fish dishes and traditional linseed oil curd – gourmets will find plenty to enjoy. In quaint inns, farm shops, and beer gardens, regional cuisine can be enjoyed in a relaxed atmosphere. Those who want to delve deeper can visit a gherkin factory, for example – a true taste of the Spreewald!

spreewaldgurken im Glas und auf Schneidebrett

Hiking

The Spreewald isn't just for exploring by bike or canoe—the region also offers unique experiences on foot. Numerous well-marked hiking trails lead through tranquil forests, along streams, and through idyllic villages. Particularly worthwhile are the nature trail in Burg and the circular route through the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Those who are mindful while out and about might, with a little luck, spot otters, storks, or rare dragonflies. Discover, for example, Komoot hikes in the Spreewald!

Frau wandert im Spreewald

Events

The Spreewald hosts year-round events that combine tradition and joie de vivre. From the cucumber market in Lübbenau to the local and traditional costume festival in Burg to atmospheric Advent markets – these are celebrations of what defines the region. Music, dance, regional specialties, and handicrafts provide a diverse program. Many festivals are closely linked to Sorbian/Wendish culture and offer authentic insights into the region's customs.

Menschen in traditioneller Tracht im Spreewald


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Interesting facts about the Spreewald cucumber

  • Spreewald cucumbers make more than 15 percent of the German cucumber market .
  • In the Spreewald, approximately 30.000 tons of cucumbers harvested.
  • Every year more than 3.000 workers in the cucumber season busy harvesting the Spreewald cucumbers.

You want a Round trip or a star tour by bike through the Spreewald Want to do it as stress-free as possible? Then book a cycling tour with us, including overnight accommodation and luggage transport. Discover the Spree Cycle Path now!

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