E is for the River Elbe – exploring Germany’s best long distance cycle path

You feel the pull in your leg muscles as you hop off your bike after a morning’s cycling. But how the view rewards the effort! You're looking out from Melnik Castle over the confluence of the two rivers, the Vltava and the Elbe, in the heart of the Bohemian wine growing area, and the vista is superb. A cold beer, or perhaps a glass of that local wine, beckons.

You’re exploring the Czech and German countryside in the most ecologically friendly way – by bike, all the way from Prague to Dresden. The freedom of cycling opens up the countryside in a unique way. You’ll see great scenery, including the bizarre rock formations of Saxon Switzerland, and perfectly preserved old towns and villages, impressive castles and Baroque palaces, and more – every day opens up a new experience. Your constant companion is the river, serenely gliding along. At either end of the trip, there’s a fascinating city to explore– Prague, with all its picturesque attractions, and Dresden, the ‘Florence of the Elbe’, with the Zwinger Palace and the famous Frauenkirche.

The Germans certainly know a thing or two about cycling, and their cycling routes are excellent and safe, mostly asphalted and avoiding busy roads. The German Cyclists’ Federation has voted this Germany’s top cycle path for the past 12 years. And you’re in the safe hands of a local guide all the way.

Cycling along the River Elbe is certainly a challenge – are you up for this holiday with a difference?