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The Lakeland Route: Cycling Through Brandenburg’s Waterways
From Open-Pit Mine to Water Landscape on the Lakeland Route
191 km (Brandenburg section: 63 km)
Start and end: Senftenberg
The Lakeland Route winds its way through the Lausitzer Seenland, a region that was once shaped by open-pit mining and has now been transformed into a stunning water landscape. A network of canals connects 16 newly created lakes, creating a diverse environment for cyclists.
Over four day-long stages, you’ll experience this region of striking contrasts in all its facets. You’ll ride along impressive open-pit mining lakes, past newly designed waterfront promenades, and through landscapes that nature has reclaimed after mining operations ended. Life is bustling in the port cities, while sections close to nature offer peace and relaxation. Watch waterfowl, discover small beaches, and enjoy the sweeping views of the ever-changing landscape.
Thanks to its flat route, this tour is ideal for both athletic cyclists and leisurely cyclists who want to explore the region’s varied landscapes and cultural highlights. Adjacent long-distance bike trails, such as the Fürst-Pückler-Radweg and the Spree Cycle Path, also offer the opportunity to extend the tour and delve into other exciting regions of Brandenburg.
Recommendations
HIGHLIGHTS ALONG THE TOUR
- Senftenberg: City Harbor, Castle, and Fortress
- Großräschen: City Harbor, IBA terraces overlooking Lake Großräschen, vineyard
- Spremberg: Castle with the Lower Lusatian Heath Museum (side trip)
- Nochten Boulders Park
- Beach at Lake Geierswalde
- Lausitzer Seenland Landmark "Rusty Nail": Panoramic view of several lakes
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE BIKE ROUTE
- Region: Lausitzer Seenland, a burgeoning vacation destination between Dresden and Berlin
- Route Profile: Mostly paved bike paths and bike lanes, with some sections on side streets or unpaved paths. The route is mostly flat and ideal for leisurely rides.
- Route Description: The route winds through a changing landscape. Numerous lookout points offer impressive views of the emerging lake landscape.
IBA Terraces & Rostiger Nagel: Experience Change Up Close
The IBA terraces on Lake Großräschener impressively demonstrate how a former mining region is being transformed into a new lake landscape. At the Lausitzer Seenland Visitor Center, you can learn more about this transformation through historical photographs, interactive exhibits, and exciting plans for the future. Right next door is the Dr. Wobar Winery, where you can sample regional wines while enjoying a view of Lake Großräschen.
From there, the route continues to the 30-meter-high Lausitzer Seenland Landmark "Rusty Nail." The observation tower offers a sweeping view of Lake Sedlitz, Lake Geierswalde, and Lake Partwitz. On the way there, you’ll pass newly landscaped shoreline areas and regions where nature is slowly reclaiming the land. The landmark symbolizes the region’s transformation and vividly illustrates the shift from a mining area to a water landscape.
How did the Lausitzer Seenland transform from a mining region into a water landscape? The route features impressive viewpoints and cultural highlights.
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Hiking and Biking Along the Water
In Deutschlands Seenland, you’re right in the heart of nature. Scenic trails along the Elbe, Havel, Oder, and Spree rivers are perfect for biking or hiking. Vast lakes, hidden coves, and the tranquility of nature surround you. Your active adventure begins here.
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Swimming and Water Fun at Lakes
Clear water, fine sandy beaches, and lush green shores—swimming in Deutschlands Seenland is pure relaxation. Whether you want to take a dip in the cool water, splash around with your family, or simply soak up the sun, you’ll find your swimming paradise here, far away from the hustle and bustle of the city.