4.6
(1881)
7,169
riders
111
rides
Touring cycling around Barleben offers a diverse landscape characterized by well-developed cycle paths along the Elbe River and Mittelland Canal. The region features wide floodplains, agricultural fields, and forested areas like the Colbitz-Letzlinger Heide. Gentle inclines are common, with some routes traversing varied terrain through ridges and natural reserves.
Last updated: August 20, 2026
4.6
(676)
2,757
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
4.8
(20)
125
riders
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.

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4.3
(34)
137
riders
39.8km
02:32
40m
40m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(30)
93
riders
36.8km
02:18
50m
50m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(21)
95
riders
37.1km
02:26
100m
100m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The development of water transport technology becomes clear during a visit to the historic Rothensee ship lift. In 1938, the ship lift was put into operation. Leipzig designers opted at the time for a principle that had not yet been practically applied anywhere for a structure of this magnitude: A lift whose trough rested on two movable floats. With the help of the water-filled trough, which together with the two floats and the support structures has a total weight of around 5,400 tons, ships could thus "descend" from the Mittellandkanal and towards the Elbe. Depending on the water level of the Elbe, a gradient between 11 and 18 meters is compensated. With a trough length of 85 meters, a width of 12 meters, and a water depth in the trough of 2.5 meters, the dimensions are, however, too small for today's large motor cargo ships. For this reason, the ship lift was decommissioned in 2006. Since then, the state capital Magdeburg, supported by various stakeholders and with broad public approval, has been committed to its seasonal continued operation. With success: Since the summer of 2013, the ship lift has been seasonally operated again for tourist purposes. The ship lift in Magdeburg-Rothensee is a unique monument due to its technology and history. It is a brilliant design, its construction was an engineering masterpiece. It is the second oldest of only four ship lifts still in operation in Germany and the only two-float ship lift in Germany still in operation. A visit is worthwhile for this reason alone, as the immediate proximity of the state-of-the-art Sparschleuse to the ship lift, as a historical technical monument, makes the developments in water transport technology visible. Data and facts: Usable length: 85 meters Usable width: 12 meters Lift height: 10.45 to 18.46 meters depending on the Elbe water level Water depth in the trough: 2.58 meters Usable size: 82 meters x 9.5 meters x 2 meters Total moving weight: 5,400 tons https://www.magdeburg-tourist.de/Tourismus-Freizeit/System/Schiffshebewerk/
2
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A beautiful spot where you can see far along the Elbe river.
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It's always impressive what engineering can achieve. Here, the Mittelland Canal simply runs along above the Elbe River.
0
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Beautiful perspectives and great route
0
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No desire to go back so through the ears!!
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Beautiful route for mountain biking or gravel biking. Always something interesting on the water.
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There are over 100 touring cycling routes around Barleben, offering a wide range of options for different preferences and skill levels. You'll find everything from easy, flat rides to more challenging, longer distances.
The best seasons for touring cycling in Barleben are spring and summer. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and nature is in full bloom, making for a beautiful backdrop to your ride. You'll also find ample rest areas along the routes.
Barleben offers a good mix of routes for all abilities. There are over 70 easy routes, more than 20 moderate routes, and a selection of challenging routes for experienced cyclists. The terrain generally features gentle inclines, with many routes along flat canal paths and riverside trails.
The touring cycling experience in Barleben is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1600 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the well-developed cycle paths along the Elbe River and Mittelland Canal, as well as the diverse landscapes that include wide floodplains, fields, and forests.
Yes, many touring cycling routes around Barleben are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Mittelland Canal – Elbe-Havel Canal Path loop from Barleben offers a moderate 24.8-mile (39.9 km) ride along the waterways. Another option is the View of the Kalimandscharo – Barleber Lake loop from Barleber See, which covers 23.3 miles (37.6 km) through varied terrain.
Absolutely. Barleben is well-suited for family-friendly and beginner touring cycling. Many routes along the Mittelland Canal and parts of the Elbe Cycle Path are flat and well-maintained, offering a relaxing experience. An easy option is the Mittelland Canal Cycle Path – Mittelland Canal loop from Barleben, which is 11.5 miles (18.5 km) long.
Yes, the region around Barleben is rich in natural beauty and wildlife. You can cycle through the UNESCO Middle Elbe Biosphere Reserve, known for its floodplains and stork meadows. The Colbitz-Letzlinger Heide, located north of Barleben, offers vast natural landscapes including the Lindenwald nature reserve, where you might spot birds of prey, bats, deer, and wild boar. The Elbe Meadows and "Küchenhorn" Auenwald also provide opportunities to observe diverse flora and fauna.
Many routes in Barleben feature impressive sights. The Mittelland Canal Cycle Path – Rogätz Ferry loop from Barleber See takes you along the Elbe Cycle Path with breathtaking views of the river. You can also visit the Domfelsen viewing platform for panoramic views over the Elbe and Magdeburg Cathedral, or explore the impressive War memorial in Fürstenwall Park.
Beyond the natural landscapes, you can discover several attractions. The Magdeburg Water Bridge, the world's longest canal bridge, is a highlight along the Elbe Cycle Path. Nearby, you can also see the Rothensee and Hohenwarte locks. For historical interest, Calvörde Castle is a medieval complex a few kilometers from Barleben. The Barleber Lake and Jersleber See are popular spots for recreation.
Parking is generally available at popular starting points for cycling routes, especially near recreational areas like the Barleber Seen. It's advisable to check specific route descriptions or local signage for designated parking facilities.
Barleben is well-connected to Magdeburg, which serves as a hub for public transport. You can often reach starting points of cycle paths via regional trains or buses, many of which accommodate bicycles. This allows for flexible planning of your touring cycling adventures.
Yes, several routes in the Barleben area feature beautiful lakes. The Elbe Meadows – Herrenkrugsteg Bridge loop from Barleber See, for instance, takes you near the Barleber Lake. Other notable lakes in the vicinity include Lostau Old Elbe and Prester Lake, providing scenic spots for a rest or picnic.


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