The best traffic-free bike rides around Byhleguhre-Byhlen

Everything is fine.

Anyone cycling in the Spreewald should look up more often – not just for the sun, but also for the storks. A majestic nest sits perched on a simple metal platform, high above the treetops. A white stork stands in it, motionless as a statue. Perhaps on guard duty, perhaps meditating – you never know. One thing is certain: it belongs here. The region is considered rich in storks, and that's no coincidence. The branching waterways, moist meadows, and abundant food make the Spreewald a five-star stork habitat. The nests – often on artificial platforms like this one – can be seen from afar. A quick stop is always worthwhile: If you're lucky, you might even spot young birds or a clattering greeting ritual. For cyclists, this is a quiet, dignified moment – in the midst of nature, away from the major attractions. Not a place to linger, but a place to pause. And perhaps to silently marvel at how cleverly animals choose their vantage points.

Anyone traveling along the Gurkenradweg (Gherkin Cycle Path) cannot miss Straupitz – and they shouldn't. The castle, with its park-like surroundings, is located directly on the stream, where the Spreewald captains' boats leisurely float along. In the background, the imposing twin-towered church peeks through the trees. The cycle path runs within sight of the water here, offering an ideal opportunity for a longer rest. The meadow on the bank is perfect for a picnic, the café in the old castle tempts with cakes and shandlers, and if you're lucky, you'll snag a spot on the terrace overlooking the water. Children will also find their fill here – the rafts and boats look like toys from another era. Convenient: There's a bike rack, and signposts help with orientation. This is an ideal stop for anyone who enjoys nature, culture, and a touch of Spreewald romance. If you want to continue, follow the little yellow cucumber on the sign – it knows the way.

A particularly relaxing section of the Gurkenradweg (Gherkin Cycle Path) runs between fields, tree-lined avenues, and a hint of Brandenburg's expanse: the designated cycle path. Pedaling here, you'll immediately notice that this path isn't just formally reserved for cyclists—it also feels that way. Smooth asphalt, hardly any car traffic, and if a tractor does appear, it's usually a friendly greeting. This is where you can experience the Spreewald, not just cross it. The route leads through light avenues, past fields, cows, and the occasional small stream—it's a path where cycling becomes a rhythm. Especially in the morning and evening hours, an almost meditative silence hangs over the landscape. If you like to take photos or simply want to take a deep breath, you should definitely take a break here—sometimes just looking at the wind is enough to realize how little you need. Tip: Ideal for families and leisurely cyclists—few inclines, little hustle and bustle, lots of scenery. A real highlight for all those who not only want to reach their destination but also want to relax.

If you've ever wanted to experience how relaxing a straight line can be, the Nordumfluter cycle path is the perfect place for you. The path runs parallel to the canal of the same name – a straight ribbon through meadows, with expansive views and a well-maintained asphalt surface. Ideal for touring bikes, e-bikes, or relaxed family outings. Especially on hot days, the open landscape has an almost meditative feel. Accompanied by the babbling of the canal, you cycle through the Spreewald Biosphere Reserve without being interrupted by the hustle and bustle of tourists. Those seeking peace and quiet will find it here. Those who want to cover distance can do so too. Every now and then, forks invite you to take small detours – for example, to the locks or rest stops. Benches are provided at regular intervals, usually with beautiful views of the water. An ideal section to really take a deep breath.

Anyone cycling along the cycle path through the Spreewald Biosphere Reserve will encounter a piece of unspectacular but functional hydraulic engineering history: The lock in the northern floodplain ensures the controlled flow of water from the intricate Spree system. Even if this may not sound spectacular to tourists, it is a central piece of the puzzle in the water-rich cultural landscape of the Spreewald. For cyclists, the lock is a good opportunity for a short stop: The facility itself is easily visible from the path. If you look closely, you can see the mechanics of the gates and the small walkways that the staff used to operate the lock. Today, everything seems somewhat deserted, but not dilapidated – a quiet place by the water, where technical infrastructure blends into the landscape.

Anyone traveling along the cycle path south of Schmogrow should pause here for a moment. What at first glance appears to be just another weir made of concrete, steel, and a bit of graffiti is actually a central point in the Spreewald water system: this is where the Spree divides. The river is divided by two adjustable branches – the so-called Main Spree and the North Floodplain. One branch feeds the Spreewald, the other serves primarily for drainage and flood protection. A small sign explains its function – but otherwise, little hints at the significance of this place. But anyone who knows a bit about it knows: Without this spot, the Spreewald would look different. For cyclists, the area is ideal for a short break. The paths are wide and paved, and the view across the water extends far into the open lowland landscape. There are no seating areas, but if you sit on the concrete edge with a sandwich, you can listen to the gentle rippling, which here becomes part of the landscape through technology.

Wildbahnweg. Here, the Große Wildbahn is crossed. A beautiful section of the cycle path.