jedermann-tour - Your holiday in cycling destination Niedersachsen
Transcription
jedermann-tour - Your holiday in cycling destination Niedersachsen
jedermann-tour Your holiday in cycling destination Niedersachsen www.niedersachsen-tourism.com Welcome to cycling destination Niedersachsen! For many people, cycling is the best way to spend a holiday – riding along quiet roads through the constantly changing landscapes of Niedersachsen and discovering sleepy villages and vibrant cities. Here in the cycling destination Niedersachsen, we offer you all of these and more. There are numerous tours for young and old, for leisurely and athletic cyclists, for solo travellers, groups and families, for just a weekend or a whole cycling holiday. There’s something here for everyone – guaranteed! Whether you choose to travel by bike and train or stay in our cyclist-friendly “bed+bike” accommodation, we know what you need to fuel your pedal power so you can quickly forget the stresses of everyday life. Here you can look out to the horizon, enjoying the view of the uplands as you ride alongside babbling brooks and broad rivers. You can still hear the creaking of the old mill wheels and watch maritime tradition come to life at the old locks. Time almost seems to stand still on beautiful tree-lined avenues. Take time out on your cycling tour to visit one of the many UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Niedersachsen, or stop by for a dairy refreshment at a typical northern German “Melkhüs”. There is much to discover on our cycle routes. Our cycle routes have star credentials Niedersachsen boasts two of the most popular cycling routes in Germany – the Elberadweg and WeserRadweg. Ensuring quality during your cycling holiday is paramount to us. How about a tour along the EmsRadweg or the D-Route 3, which have been awarded four respectively three stars by the German Cyclist Federation (ADFC)? You will find many other varied routes as well, like the Ilmenauradweg, the Radrundweg “Weites Land”, the Friedensroute Münster-Osnabrück and the Internationale Dollard Route. And for those who are more athletic, the network of mountain bike routes in the Harz mountains and Solling-Vogler Nature Park hold quite a few challenges in store for mountain bikers. Have we piqued your interest? Read on for some inspiring ideas for your next cycling holiday in Niedersachsen. We look forward to welcoming you! Contents 1 Cycling routes in Niedersachsen – between Wadden Sea and Harz, Ems and Elbe 4 EmsRadweg 6 Qualitätsradroute 10 Nordseeküsten-Radweg 11 D-Route 3 12 6 Qualitätsradroute Brückenradweg Osnabrück Bremen 13 7 Radfernweg Hamburg-Bremen 14 7 Weser-Radweg 15 Elberadweg 8 16 Ilmenauradweg Lüneburger Heide 8 17 Aller-Radweg Ostfrieslandtour „Gärten und Schlösser“ 12 Ostfrieslandtour „Seeräuber und Häuptlinge“ 13 Ostfrieslandtour „Wasser und Weite“ 13 Ammerlandroute 14 Circuit Distance: approx. 163 km 9 18 Deutsche Fehnroute 14 Circuit Distance: approx. 173 km 9 19 Bad Bodenteich/Hösseringen to Hoopte Distance: approx. 122 km 9 12 Circuit Distance: approx. 178 km Bad Schandau (Sachsen) to Cuxhaven Distance: approx. 860 km 8 Ostfrieslandtour „Alte und neue Häfen“ Circuit Distance: approx. 199 km Hann. Münden to Cuxhaven Distance: approx. 498 km 7 11 Circuit Distance: approx. 197 km Hamburg to Bremen Distance: approx. 151 km 6 Meerweg Circuit Distance: approx. 208 km Osnabrück to Bremen Distance: West route: approx. 165 km via Vechta East route: approx. 149 km via Diepholz 5 11 Wilhelmshaven to Mardorf Distance: approx. 281 km Zwillbrock (Nordrhein-Westfalen) to Küstrin-Kietz (Brandenburg) Distance: approx. 928 km 4 Weser-Harz-Heide-Radfernweg Lüneburg to Hannoversch Münden Distance: approx. 411 km Bad Nieuweschans (Netherlands) to Hamburg-Finkenwerder Distance: approx. 569 km 3 10 Leinefelde (Thüringen) to Hamburg Distance: approx. 410 km Hövelhof (Nordrhein-Westfalen) to Emden Distance: approx. 380 km 2 Leine-Heide-Radweg Internationale Dollard Route 15 Circuit Distance: approx. 215 km 10 20 Verden (Aller) to Seehausen (Sachsen-Anhalt) Distance: approx. 328 km Tour de Fries Circuit Distance: approx. 250 km 2 15 21 Friesenroute Rad up Pad 16 32 Circuit Distance: approx. 296 km 22 BahnRadRoute Teuto-Senne Friedensroute Münster-Osnabrück 16 33 Hase-Ems-Tour 17 34 Grafschafter Fietsentour 17 35 kunstwegen-Vechtetalroute 18 36 18 37 19 39 3-Seen-Route 19 Emsland-Route 20 Circuit Distance: approx. 295 km 30 Geest-Radweg 20 40 Meppen to Bremen Distance: approx. 179 km 31 Rad-Route Dortmund-Ems-Kanal Radwanderweg Weites Land 23 Wümme-Radweg 24 Deutsche Fährstraße 24 Deutsch-Deutscher Radweg 25 Lübeck (Schleswig-Holstein) to Nentschau (Sachsen) Distance: approx. 1,019 km Circuit Distance: approx. 260 km 29 23 Blangenmoor to Bremervörde Distance: approx. 134 km Circuit Distance: approx. 304 km 28 Radrundweg Unterweser Circuit Distance: approx. 257 km 38 Boxenstopp-Route 22 Circuit Distance: approx. 134 km Zwolle (Netherlands) to Darfeld (Nordrhein-Westfalen) Distance: approx. 224 km 27 Deutsche Sielroute Circuit Distance: approx. 165 km Circuit Distance: approx. 220 km 26 22 Circuit Distance: approx. 180 km Circuit Distance: approx. 328 km 25 Vom Teufelsmoor zum Wattenmeer Circuit Distance: approx. 450 km Circuit Distance: approx. 176 km 24 21 Circuit Distance: approx. 389 km Osnabrück to Paderborn (Nordrhein-Westfalen) Distance: approx. 160 km 23 United Countries Tour Mountain biking – an adrenalinefuelled ride across Niedersachsen 26 Volksbank Arena Harz 27 Distance: approx. 2,200 km (total) 41 21 Weener to Bevergern (Nordrhein-Westfalen) Distance: approx. 340 km Mountainbike-Region Naturpark Solling-Vogler 27 Distance: approx. 760 km (total) Imprint 3 28 Cycling routes in Niedersachsen – between the Wadden Sea and Harz, Ems and Elbe Niedersachsen has around 40 cycling routes totalling more than 10,000 kilometres in length, making it possible for you to cycle across the whole state, from the mountains to the sea. How about a cycling tour along one of Niedersachsen’s rivers? For years now the Elberadweg and the Weser-Radweg have proves true classics among Germany’s most popular long-distance cycling routes. The EmsRadweg and the D-Route 3 rightfully bear the distiction “premium”. Awarded four respectively three stars by the German Cyclist Federation (ADFC), the routes meet your every expectation. Pristine river landscapes unfold before you as you cycle along the Aller, Leine, Ilmenau, Wuemme an Hase rivers. Water – seas, rivers, lakes and canals – is a vital part of Niedersachsen. Several cycling routes offer you a panorama of the Wadden Sea UNESCO World Heritage site. Leave the world behind on your journey along the Nordseeküsten-Radweg (North Sea Cycle Route), or the Vom Teufelsmoor zum Wattenmeer route. 1 cycle route = 3 seas and 1 lake: Do you know which waters you pass along the Meerweg? Experience the wide expanses typical of the northern German landscape on the Radwanderweg Weites Land or the Radrundweg Unterweser. Maritime flair is writ large in Niedersachsen – so it’s not surprising that several of our cycle routes showcase this important regional theme. Enjoy fresh breezes and see how channels, drawbridges and marshlands mark the landscape along the Deutsche Fehnroute, Deutsche Sielroute, the Friesenroute Rad up Pad, the Tour de Fries and the Ammerlandroute. Maritime technological sights abound along the Deutsche Fährstraße and Rad-Route Dortmund-Ems-Kanal, like the transporter bridge across the Oste and impressive sluice systems. Something truly special awaits you in Ostfriesland, where you can experience the regional culture and countryside up close and personally. The Ostfrieslandroute “Wasser und Weite” route takes you to the heart of a typical East Frisian landscape of marshes and linear drainage channels. 4 The “Alte und neue Häfen” route combines historical maritime flair with state-of-the-art port technology. Look out for a chance to hear some seafaring lore when encountering pirates and chieftains, or discover the treasures among the gardens and castles of the northwest. Enjoy real cross-border encounters on excursions to the neighbouring Netherlands on the Internationale Dollard Route and United Countries Tour. Ride the kunstwegen-Vechtetalroute for a true international cultural experience – a cycle route dotted with works of art. For a different kind of border experience, try the Deutsch-Deutscher Radweg, where the history of the formerly divided country is palpable for all. History buffs will savour the journey along the Friedensroute Münster-Osnabrück, on the trail of the Peace of Westphalia, which was proclaimed from the steps of the Osnabrück town hall. Another historic architectural sight – this time from the Weser Renaissance – is Bremen Town Hall, which you can reach from the Brückenradweg Osnabrück Bremen. For your next urban destination, head towards Hamburg on the Radfernweg Hamburg-Bremen. Away from the cities you can experience the tranquility of the Niedersachsen countryside along the Boxenstopp-Route, which has nothing at all to do with motor racing. On the contrary, in Oldenburger Münsterland you can enjoy idyllic country life to the fullest. To make your choice easier, the routes The Ice Age has left its traces in the west of Niedersachsen, which you will see as you pedal over the rolling hills of the terminal moraines on the well-maintained cycle route through the Geest, Emsland and the Grafschaft Bentheim. The terrain becomes somewhat hillier on the BahnRadRoute Teuto-Senne but the good news is the next train station is never far away if you decide you want to take a shortcut. The WeserHarz-Heide-Radfernweg offers nearly the complete diversity of Niedersachsen’s landscape, from the Weserbergland to the Harz and on to the Lüneburger Heide. From seas to lakes, city to countryside, highlands to lowlands and culture to technology – Niedersachsen has just the thing for every cyclist. 5 are marked to indicate: This route is suitable for leisurely cyclists. The route is flat to hilly and suitable for anyone in average physical condition. This tour is suitable for children riding alone. The route is far from busy roads with mostly flat to slightly hilly terrain. There are plenty of opportunities for breaks along the route. This route is suitable for athletic cyclists. The route features challenging, hilly to mountainous terrain and is suitable for the physically fit. 1 Package From the Source to the Mouth Qualitätsradroute EmsRadweg What’s included Route profile Tackle the entire EmsRadweg in 7 stages of an average 55 km in length: Data: Distance: approx. 380 km Elevation gain: approx. 143 m It’s fascinating how a stream turns into a powerful river: the Ems! Awarded 4 stars by the ADFC, this cycling route runs from the river’s source at Hövelhof outside Paderborn to its estuary at the North Sea. The route is full of contrasts in the great outdoors, with wildlife in the Emsauen area and more animals in Naturpark Flora Westfalica, impressive churches and half-timbered buildings in the Paderborner Land and Münsterland areas, opportunities for a quiet rest at the pilgrimage site Wallfahrtsort Telgte or the monastery Kloster Bentlage, and then wide-open green space, the busy towns of the Emsland and the maritime flair of Ostfriesland. - 7 nights with breakfast - 1 route map “EmsRadweg” per room - tourist information Optional services (extra charges apply): - baggage transfer - bike rental - half-board - travel insurance - single room - extra night See www.emsradweg.de for further tourist offers on the EmsRadweg € 339.00 pp Double room from Info Emsland Touristik GmbH p +49(0) 5931 442266 [email protected] www.emsland.com Booking period: year-round 2 Package Ostfriesland – Just Follow the Water NordseeküstenRadweg What’s included Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 569 km Elevation gain: approx. 140 m Bike all around the North Sea on the NordseeküstenRadweg. Six thousand kilometres of signposted paths traversing no less than eight different countries – that’s why this cycling route made it into the Guinness Book of World Records. In Germany the route goes along the East Frisian coast via the Wesermarsch, the Seaside City of Bremerhaven and the Cuxland region over to the Altes Land holiday area on the Elbe river just across from Hamburg, continuing on up through SchleswigHolstein towards Denmark. This section of the cycling route is all about views of the Wadden Sea, dikes, lighthouses, windmills, harbour towns, and Hanseatic towns, plus a lot of exhilarating sea air. Info AG Nordseeküsten-Radweg Niedersachsen / Bremerhaven, c/o Tourismusverband Landkreis Stade / Elbe e.V. p +49(0) 4142 813838 [email protected], www.northsea-cycle.com 6 - 7 nights with breakfast in hotel - 7 x baggage transfer from hotel to hotel - Harbour tour of Emden - Visit to JadeWeserport InfoCenter - Visit to Coastline Museum - Circuit starting & ending in Emden, Total distance 279 km Additional nights: Greetsiel, Norden, Bensersiel, Jever, Wilhelmshaven, Aurich. Double room minimum 2 persons from minimum 4 persons from Single room surcharge € 609.00 pp € 549.00 pp € 100.00 Booking period: year-round Ostfriesland Tourismus GmbH p +49(0) 491 919696-66 [email protected] www.ostfriesland.de 3 Package Experience Germany’s Diversity Qualitätsradroute D-Route 3 What’s included On European cycle route R1 D-Route 3, cycle from Höxter and Corvey Castle to Weser Renaissance Castle Bevern via Holzminden. Your goal: the Harz mountains. Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 928 km Elevation gain: approx. 3,940 m Discover Germany by bike from west to east on D-Route 3, the German section of Europaradweg R1. The route leads from the Dutch border through the Weserbergland and Harz mountains, all the way to the Polish border. In both regions you can expect gentle hills that offer one magnificent view after another out over meadows and forests. Colourful half-timbered towns and imposing palaces and castles with intriguing and impressive historical backgrounds take cyclists on a journey into bygone days. This route makes for truly great cycling tourism. Info Weserbergland Tourismus e.V. p +49(0)5151 93000 [email protected] www.weserbergland-tourismus.de Minimum 2 persons Double room from Single room from € 399.00 pp € 449.00 pp Booking period: April to October Harzer Tourismusverband e.V. p +49(0) 5321 3404-0 [email protected] www.harzinfo.de 4 Solling-Vogler-Region im Weserbergland e.V. p +49(0) 5536 960970 [email protected] www.solling-vogler-region.de Package The Hanseatic Cities Tour Brückenradweg Osnabrück Bremen What’s included Route profile Data: Distance: - 5 nights in hotels - 5 x delicious cyclist’s breakfast - Baggage transport from place to place - Route map - Information pack - Statutory bankruptcy insurance West route approx.165 km East route approx.149 km Two Hanseatic cities, two route options, and varied landscapes. The Brückenradweg connects the historically and culturally significant cities of Osnabrück and Bremen, where there is much to discover. The western route is 165 km long, going through the city of Vechta. The eastern route spans 149 km starting from Osnabrück, taking you on to Bremen via Diepholz; connecting signposted paths link the two routes. - 7 nights in a double room with shower/toilet - 7 x breakfast buffet - Route map Brückenradweg Osnabrück Bremen - Extensive tourist information - 1 repair set per group Optional services: - Baggage transfer available (extra charge applies) - bike rental Osnabrück (8 days for € 30.00/ person) - e-bike rental (extra charge applies) Double room from Single room from € 399.00 pp € 468.00 pp Booking period: year-round Info Tourismusverband Osnabrücker Land e. V. p +49(0) 541 9511195 [email protected] www.osnabruecker-land.de 7 5 Package Go on a discovery tour from one Hanseatic city to another on the Radfernweg Hamburg-Bremen Radfernweg Hamburg-Bremen Route profile What’s included Data: Distance: approx. 151 km Elevation gain: approx. 260 m - 2 nights in a double room (Ringhotels: Paulsen/Zeven, Munte at Stadtwald/Bremen) - 2 x half-board - Free parking - Use of “beautyfit” wellness area in Ringhotel Munte (swimming pool, 4 different saunas, outdoor area & sunroom) Far away from busy roads, the 150 km Radfernweg Hamburg-Bremen links north Germany’s most famous Hanseatic cities of Hamburg and Bremen, taking you through the land between the Elbe and Weser rivers. Along the Wümme, Oste and Este lowlands, down gently rolling moraine ridges and in larger forest areas you will experience the northern German countryside, dotted with quaint villages and fun “Melkhüs” milk bar rest stops that invite you to linger. On historical trade routes, back roads and quiet forest trails you’ll be cycling towards either Hamburg or Bremen. When you get there you can explore the Hanseatic cities from astride a bicycle for a change! Double room from Single room from € 158.00 pp € 208.50 pp Booking period: year-round Info AG Radfernweg Hamburg-Bremen c/o Touristikverband Landkreis Rotenburg (Wümme) [email protected] p +49(0) 4261 81960 www.radfernweg-hamburg-bremen.de 6 Package Bike & River Adventure from Hann. Münden to Bremen Weser-Radweg What’s included Route profile The varied Weser river cycle tour extends for 365 km from the Weser hill country to the North Sea. Data: Distance: approx. 498 km Elevation gain: approx. 990 m Follow the Weser-Radweg, one of Germany’s most popular cycling routes, from the river’s source to its estuary. In the first path section you’ll bike through the Weserbergland past historic towns, romantic castles and palaces. Then in the Mittelweser region you’ll see windmills and water mills as you go by. The Unter weser section of the river begins further north, in the Hanseatic city of Bremen. In Nordenham you can then take a ferry to the Seaside City of Bremerhaven, follow the cycling route on from there to Cuxhaven. The great thing is, there are only a few rises, making the path easy to travel for families and those who are less athletic. - 8 nights - 8 x delicious cyclist’s breakfast - Baggage transfer from place to place - Route map - Information pack - Statutory bankruptcy insurance Minimum 2 persons Double room from Single room from € 599.00 pp € 699.00 pp Booking period: April to October Info Weser-Radweg Infozentrale c/o Weserbergland Tourismus e.V. p +49(0) 5151 9300-0 [email protected], www.weserradweg-info.de 8 Solling-Vogler-Region im Weserbergland e.V. p +49(0) 5536 960970 [email protected] www.solling-vogler-region.de 7 Package Elberadweg Round trip from Hamburg via Cuxhaven and back to Hamburg – Between Hanseatic metropolises and the Wadden Sea Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 860 km Elevation gain: approx. 1.090 m What’s included The Elberadweg is one of the loveliest and most varied long-distance cycling routes in Europe. Tremendous variety awaits you on this 860 km stretch from the Wadden Sea to the “Elbsandsteingebirge”, a sandstone mountain formation along the upper Elbe. Here you will experience unique culture, vibrant cities and nearly untouched nature along the Elbe floodplains. Gentle slopes make for relaxed cycling. Besides a map of the route our guidebook provides you with lots of tips on interesting sights, cycle-friendly accommodation, ferries and bike maintenance. For additional information, about package deals, for instance, please contact the coordination centres “Elberadweg Nord”, “Mitte” and “Süd”. Info Koordinierungsstelle Elberadweg Nord c/o ELBTALAUE-WENDLAND Touristik GmbH p +49(0) 5862 969720 [email protected], www.elberadweg.de - Welcome gift - 7 nights + breakfast - Baggage transport from place to place - Ferry crossing from Brunsbüttel to Cuxhaven incl. bike transfer - Cuxhaven resort tax paid - Maps and information pack - 24 hr telephone service Double room from Single room surcharge € 639.00 pp € 190.00 Booking period: Arrival Saturdays and Mondays from 29 April 2013 to 7 October 2013 STADE Tourismus-GmbH p +49(0) 4141 409174 [email protected] www.stade-tourismus.de 8 Package Ilmenauradweg Discovery Tour Ilmenauradweg Lüneburger Heide What’s included Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 122 km Elevation gain: approx. 302 m Cycle through the Ilmenau FFH conservation park on secluded, pristine trails, where you will marvel at the animal and plant life to be observed along the way. The Ilmenauradweg is a really special cycling route for nature lovers. The many sights and varied nature experiences you can have there, plus 31 family-friendly information boards with sound and audio plays (downloadable at www.ilmenauradweg.de) make the FFH park a unique biking experience. Leisurely cyclists will complete the route in three relaxing days. Excellent rail connections to the Hannover-Hamburg-Uelzen Metronom rail line. We recommend a robust trekking or tour bike. Info Lüneburger Heide GmbH t +49(0)4131 298980800 [email protected] www.radtour-lueneburgerheide.de / www.ilmenauradweg.de 9 - 3 nights at a comfortable 4-star hotel in Bad Bevensen - 3 x hearty breakfast buffet - 1 x 4-course cyclist’s meal - 2 x packed lunches for Ilmenauradweg cycling trips - 1 rail ticket for the journey Bad Bodenteich-Bad Bevensen - 1 rail ticket for the journey Lüneburg-Bad Bevensen - Maps and information pack 02.01.2013 – 28.03.2013 and 21.10.2013 – 20.12.2013 € 234.00 pp Double room 29.03.2013 – 20.10.2013 € 249.00 pp Double room Single room surcharge € Booking period: 02.01.2013 – 20.12.2013 Trip number: 7960 15.00 pp 9 Package Aller-Radweg Ex(Celle)nt Aller-Radweg What’s included Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 328 km Elevation gain: approx. 480 m The Aller-Radweg is the most beautiful route between the Weser river and the Elbe. It extends for 328 km through idyllic landscapes along the Aller River from the mouth of the Weser at Verden all the way to its source beyond Eggenstedt by Magdeburg. The Aller leads you through the stunning Aller-Leine Valley, the Southern Heath, the Drömling, and the Flechtinger Ridge all the way to the Aller headwaters. Old farms, half-timbered houses and mills line the route. There are also several opportunities for cultural detours, such as historical cities like Verden and Celle with their numerous half-timbered houses. Gifhorn, Mühlenstadt and Wolfsburg with the Autostadt, and in Sachsen-Anhalt Magdeburg, the metropolis on the Elbe. Info Projektkoordination Aller-Radweg c/o Tourismus Region Hannover e.V. t +49(0) 511 3661987 [email protected], www.allerradweg.de - 4-day cycle tour/ 97 km along the Aller to the Weser - 3 nights + breakfast in mid-range hotels - Guided tour of the ducal residence of Celle - Maps - Comprehensive information on sightseeing and events Available on request: E-bike, half board, luggage transfer between hotels and return transfer from Verden to Celle Double room from Single room surcharge from € 165.00 pp € 48.50 Booking period: year-round Tourismus und Stadtmarketing Celle GmbH t +49(0)5141 1212 [email protected] www.celle-tourismus.de 10 Package Star-studded Aller-Leine Routes Leine-Heide-Radweg What’s included Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 410 km Elevation gain: approx. 750 m The Leine-Heide-Radweg offers landscape diversity, combining the uplands of the Leinebergland and Lüneburger Heide with a ride to the Hanseatic city of Hamburg. At the source of the Leine outside Leinefeld you’ll admire the hilly landscapes of Eichsfeld and Leinebergland, with forested highland ridges and colourful mixed orchards. From Hannover, a city known for its trade fairs, the route follows the Leine into the Steinhuder Meer lake area and the idyllic river scenes of the Aller-Leine valley. The route then runs through the Lüneburger Heide and towns steeped in history on up to Hamburg. Info Tourismus Region Hannover e.V. p +49(0) 511 3661-987 [email protected] www.leineheideradweg.de - 4 nights + breakfast - Route suggestions (day trips of approx. 60 – 80 km, can be lengthened or shortened at your preference) - Maps and information pack Double room rates/person Country inn from 3-star hotel from 4-star hotel from Single room surcharge € 129.00 € 159.00 € 209.00 € 48.00 Holiday rental for two (breakfast not included) from € 189.00 Booking period: year-round Tourismusregion Aller-Leine-Tal p +49(0) 5071 8688 [email protected] www.aller-leine-tal.de 10 11 Package Explore Weser, Harz and Heide by Bike Weser-Harz-HeideRadfernweg What’s included Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 411 km Elevation gain: approx. 2,260 m The Weser begins where the Werra meets the Fulda ... but that’s not all. This is also the starting point for the Weser-Harz-Heide-Radfernweg. From Hannoversch Münden in the Weser hill country through the Harz mountains, past Wolfenbüttel, Braunschweig and Gifhorn all the way to Lüneburg, the Weser-Harz-Heide-Radfernweg extends for 400 km, joining diverse cultural landscapes and striking natural wonders. The route takes you from the river’s edge through the north German uplands on down into the heathlands. Enjoy venerable university towns and mediaeval villages, see sheep, lynx and otters in their natural habitats, and attend any of a wide range of cultural events. Info TourismusRegion BraunschweigerLAND e. V. p +49(0)5361 89993-33 [email protected] www.weser-harz-heideradweg.de - 4 nights in a double room (in Wolfenbüttel, Gufhorn, Hankensbüttel, Uelzen) with shower/toilet, breakfast included - Admission to Mühlen Freilichtmuseum Gifhorn - Admission to Otter-Zentrum Hankensbüttel - Wolfenbüttel day pass: admission to Lessinghaus and Herzog August Bibliothek - Maps and information pack for the Weser-Harz-Heide-Radfernweg Double room from Please ask about single-room surcharge € 175.00 pp Booking period: year-round Südheide Gifhorn GmbH p +49(0) 5371 88-175 [email protected] www.suedheide-gifhorn.de 12 Package The Sea Trail Meerweg What’s included Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 281 km Elevation gain: approx. 250 m The Meerweg cycling route takes you through the flat countryside of the north German plain, from Steinhuder Meer up to Wilhelmshaven on the Jadebusen bay. It thus connects Niedersachsen’s three largest lakes – the Steinhuder Meer, the Dümmer and the Zwischenahner Meer – with the North Sea. Discover idyllic nature, prehistoric megalithic tombs, and much more. The lakes along the Meerweg and North Sea coast also offer lots of opportunities for recreation and water sports. And don’t forget the sights of cultural value, like romantic Bad Rehburg, Kloster Loccum monastery and the cities of Oldenburg and Wilhelmshaven. 2013 marks the 850 year anniversary of Loccum Abbey. M ee r we g Info Mittelweser-Touristik GmbH p +49(0) 5021 917630 [email protected] www.mittelweser-tourismus.de - 7 or 9 nights Double room/shower/toilet - Breakfast - Baggage transfer from hotel to hotel - Information pack - Route map Optional Services: Please ask about rental bikes, e-bikes and return transfer (extra charge apply). Double room for 7 nights from Double room for 9 nights from Single room surcharge from € 598.00 pp € 768.00 pp € 125.00 Booking period: March to October 2013 SRJ Aktiv Freizeit & Gäste Service p +49(0) 571 8891900 [email protected] www.srj.de 11 13 Package Harbours Old and New Ostfrieslandtour „Alte und neue Häfen“ What’s included Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 208 km Elevation gain: approx. 20 m From Varel the route leads to the old chieftain’s headquarters of Wittmund. From there it’s on to the tidal outlet harbour towns of Neuharlingersiel and Carolinensiel. In Neuharlingersiel you can watch the shrimp boats going out almost daily to return with a fresh catch. Next stop is the tradition-rich town of Jever. Swinging through Hooksiel, you re-enter the modern world upon reaching the maritime city of Wilhelmshaven. Here at the JadeWeserPort InfoCenter you can learn about the building of the city’s deep-water container port. The last stage of the route takes you alongside the Jadebusen bay through the artists’ village of Dangast and romantic Varel harbour. ® Info Ostfriesland Tourismus GmbH p +49(0)491 919696-60 [email protected] www.ostfriesland.de - 4 nights with breakfast in hotel - 5 x baggage transfer from hotel to hotel - Trip on paddle steamer Concordia or visit to the Sielhafen Museum in Carolinensiel - Professionally designed tour and route planner with tips on what to see along the way - Signposted route - Individual route advice - Route map for Ostfriesland tour Double room minimum 2 persons from minimum 4 persons from Single room surcharge € 319.00 pp € 269.00 pp € 80.00 Booking period: year-round Ostfriesland Tourismus GmbH p +49(0) 491 919696-66 [email protected] www.ostfriesland.de 14 Package Gardens and Palaces Ostfrieslandtour „Gärten und Schlösser“ Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 197 km Elevation gain: approx. 80 m The route features highly varied scenery, running first through diverse parkland in the Ammerland area. The rhododendrons are in full bloom from May to early June. Take the opportunity to walk through the beautiful „Park der Gärten“ in Bad Zwischenahn, or the „Blumenreich“ garden park in Wiesmoor. Then journey on past the moated Baroque Gödens Palace with its lovely palace park, to the mysterious Neuenburger Urwald “jungle” at Neuenburg Palace. After passing through the 300-hectare Rastede Palace park, the route ends at Rastede, a royal residence town. ® Info Ostfriesland Tourismus GmbH p +49(0)491 919696-60 [email protected] www.ostfriesland.de What’s included - 4 nights with breakfast in hotel - 5 x baggage transfer from hotel to hotel - Visit to the “Park der Gärten” encompassing 90 themed gardens in Bad Zwischenahn, or visit to the Floral Hall and “Blumenreich” garden park in Wiesmoor - Professionally designed tour and route planner with tips on what to see along the way - Signposted route - Individual route advice - Route map for Ostfriesland tour Double room minimum 2 persons from € 319.00 pp minimum 4 persons from € 269.00 pp Single room surcharge € 80.00 Booking period: year-round Ostfriesland Tourismus GmbH p +49(0) 491 919696-66 [email protected] www.ostfriesland.de 12 15 Package Ostfrieslandtour „Seeräuber und Häuptlinge“ Pirates and Chieftains What’s included Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 199 km Elevation gain: approx. 10 m This route is special for its East Frisian chieftain headquarters, leading first along the mouth of the Ems where you’ll see classic “Wurten” – circular hill villages – brick churches and “Gulfhof” farmhouses. You’ll go through the town of Greetsiel with its picturesque fishing port, biking on to the Störtebek “pirates lair”. Then it’s on to the oldest city in Ostfriesland, heading north. The route follows along the dyke to the moated Dornum Palace. Aurich, the next stop on the way, is also an old chieftain’s headquarters. Passing the leaning tower of Suurhusen – which is even more crooked than the Tower of Pisa – you end up back where you started: at the seaport city of Emden. ® Info Ostfriesland Tourismus GmbH p +49(0)491 919696-60 [email protected] www.ostfriesland.de - 3 nights with breakfast in hotel - 4 x baggage transfer from hotel to hotel - A visit to Ostfriesland’s state museum in Emden with its famous armoury, presenting Ostfriesland’s cultural history in contemporary surroundings in the old town hall on the Delft canal - Professionally designed tour and route planner with tips on what to see along the way - Signposted route - Individual route advice - Route map for Ostfriesland tour Double room minimum 2 persons from € 259.00 pp minimum 4 persons from € 229.00 pp Single room surcharge € 60.00 Booking period: year-round Ostfriesland Tourismus GmbH p +49(0) 491 919696-66 [email protected] www.ostfriesland.de 16 Package Water and Wide-Open Spaces Ostfrieslandtour „Wasser und Weite“ Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 178 km Elevation gain: approx. 20 m The Wasser und Weite tour takes you through unique landscapes. First the route takes you through the flat-as-a-board polder or dyked marsh landscape of the Rheiderland to the fishing village of Ditzum. Here you can enjoy freshly caught fish right at the quay. After crossing the Ems river with views of the Ems flood barrier, the wide-open spaces of Ostfriesland are revealed, along arrow-straight moor canals and the rivers Ems, Leda and Jümme. At the historical “Pünte” a ferryman will take you across the river on a hand-pulled ferry, just like in the old days. It’s worthwhile to take a brief detour into the town of Leer to see its historical museum harbour. ® Info Ostfriesland Tourismus GmbH p +49(0)491 919696-60 [email protected] www.ostfriesland.de What’s included - 3 nights with breakfast in hotel - 4 x baggage transfer from hotel to hotel - Trip across the Ems with view of the Ems flood barrier between Ditzum and Petkum - Visit to the Fehn- und Schiffahrtsmuseum Rhauderfehn - Professionally designed tour and route planner with tips on what to see along the way - Signposted route - Individual route advice - Route map for Ostfriesland tour Double room minimum 2 persons from € 229.00 pp minimum 4 persons from € 209.00 pp Single room surcharge € 60.00 Booking period: year-round Ostfriesland Tourismus GmbH p +49(0) 491 919696-66 [email protected] www.ostfriesland.de 13 17 Package 4 days Ammerlandroute – for the Athletic Ammerlandroute What’s included Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 163 km Elevation gain: approx. 60 m The Ammerlandroute leads through flat and windsheltered country, past countless nurseries and painstakingly crafted private gardens and flowering fields that transform the landscape into a symphony in green. Especially in early summer when the rhododendrons are in full bloom, Ammerland is a blaze of colour. Bad Zwischenahn is a real highlight too, featuring Niedersachsen’s third largest lake, Zwischenahner Meer. There you can visit the “Park der Gärten” and afterwards enjoy typical Ammerland delicacies like “Smoortaal” at the famous “Spieker” country inn. - 3 nights in a double room with shower/toilet in a comfortable 3-star hotel - 3x hearty breakfast buffet - 2 x packed lunches (for the daily stages) - Maps and bike tools - Baggage transfer from hotel to hotel - GPS navigation device upon request without map display - On request we will reserve an e-bike for you (not included in price) Double room from Single room surcharge € 199.00 pp € 42.00 Booking period: year-round Info Ammerland-Tourist-Information t +49(0) 4488 563000 [email protected] www.ammerland-touristik.de 18 Package Deutsche Fehnroute – 5-day-tour Deutsche Fehnroute What’s included Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 173 km Elevation gain: approx. 10 m Anyone looking for rest and relaxation away from the tourist crowds will be right on the money on the Deutsche Fehnroute. On a tour you will learn about the native moor landscape and get to know the countryside and its people, experiencing true hospitality from private individuals and professional hosts. In many communities along the route, the original character of the fen colonies is still preserved. What remains from this period are numerous tokens of a remarkable past, like the typical fen canals, locks, bascule bridges, windmills, and Romanesque and Gothic brick churches. We cordially invite you to discover this unique part of Germany. Info IG Deutsche Fehnroute e.V. p +49(0)491 919696-40 [email protected] www.deutsche-fehnroute.de 14 - 4 nights with breakfast in quality mid-range hotels - 4 x baggage transfer - Detailed maps - Travel guide and route planner - High-quality rental bikes or e-bikes on request (surcharge applies) Double room minimum 2 persons Double room minimum 4 persons Single room surcharge € 269.00 pp € 239.00 pp € 72.00 Booking period: year-round 19 Package Dollard-Route – 6-day-tour Internationale Dollard Route What’s included Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 215 km Elevation gain: approx. 10 m The Internationale Dollard Route cycling circuit is roughly 215 km long and crosses Rheiderland and the adjacent province of Groningen, where there are vast polder landscapes to explore by bike. The route exhibits rich contrasts in its bustling towns and sleepy villages on either side of the border. Be pampered by Dutch and East Frisian hospitality while enjoying a cycling trip on well-made and signposted cycle paths. - 5 nights with breakfast in quality mid-range hotels - 4 x baggage transfer - Ferry passage, including bike transfer across the Dollart - Detailed maps - Travel guide and route planner - High-quality rental bikes or e-bikes on request (surcharge applies) Double room minimum 2 persons Double room minimum 4 persons Single room surcharge € 335.00 pp € 299.00 pp € 90.00 Booking period: year-round Info Internationale Dollard Route e.V. p +49(0)491 919696-50 [email protected] www.dollard-route.de 20 Package Tour de Fries – Cycling in the Land of Wide-Open Spaces Tour de Fries What’s included Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 250 km Elevation gain: approx. 50 m On a six-day tour you’ll get to know the homeland of the Frisians, a beautiful and diverse part of the country. Explore the Frisian landscape on well-made bike paths, taking you from the North Sea beaches out to the wilds and the moraines, marshes and moorlands, then back to the dyke. On your own personal route – with luggage transfer from hotel to hotel – you decide your pace and when to take breaks. The cycling route begins and ends in Wilhelmshaven. You’ll stay the night in quality hotels and guesthouses run by locals. And of course you’ll get a taste of Frisian cuisine. Info Wilhelmshaven Touristik & Freizeit GmbH c/o Friesland-Touristik Gemeinschaft p +49(0) 4421 9130017 [email protected], www.friesland-touristik.de - 5 nights with breakfast in a double room with shower/toilet - 5 cyclist’s packed lunches - Baggage transfer from hotel to hotel - Boat trip across the Jadebusen bay, or harbour tour - Tour of castle in Jever or visit to Küstenmuseum Wilhelmshaven - 1 handlebar cooler bag (per room) - Route map, information pack and insurance certificates Additional night bookable in the Wangerland region or Wilhelmshaven € 316.00 pp Double room from Single room surcharge € 78.00 Please ask about rates for additional night Booking period: Fixed dates from April to September 15 21 Package Frisian Route With Island Flair Friesenroute Rad up Pad What’s included Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 296 km Elevation gain: approx. 20 m Cycling in Ostfriesland is all about cruising down dykes and past lighthouses, circling larger and smaller lakes, biking down romantic fen canals and discovering unspoilt moors. Few other cycling regions also have so much typical regional culture to offer: from the old lake towns and royal seats with their maritime flair to the sometimes dangerous-looking leaning church spires and windmills and the world-famous Ostfriesland “tea culture”. The healthy sea air is your constant companion, along with the peace and quiet far noisy traffic and the bustling big-city – and there’s always a tailwind of course! - 7 nights with breakfast at cyclistfriendly hotels - Baggage transfer from hotel to hotel - Free ferry crossing for you and your bike to Norderney (day trip) - Maps - Information pack - Marco Polo travel guide for Ostfriesland - Ostfriesland surprise package Double room from Single room surcharge € 479.00 pp € 70.00 Booking period: April to October Info Ostfriesland Touristik – Landkreis Aurich GmbH p +49(0) 4931 9383200 [email protected] www.mein-ostfriesland.de 22 BahnRadRoute Teuto-Senne Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 160 km Elevation gain: approx. 700 m The 160-kilometre BahnRadRoute Teuto-Senne lets you combine the two transport modes in a multitude of ways and directions on the “Haller Willem” and “Sennebahn” trains. The route begins in the historical old town district of Osnabrück, providing an impressive start amidst a backdrop of historic buildings and magnificent facades. The Niedersachsen section of the route goes through the Osnabrück countryside with its picturesque hills and valleys, and the renowned resorts of Bad Iburg, in the middle of the Teutoburger Wald, and Bad Rothenfelde, home of Western Europe’s Info Tourismusverband Osnabrücker Land e. V. p +49(0) 541 9511195 [email protected] www.osnabruecker-land.de 16 largest salt works. When you get to the pretty half-timbered village of Bockhorst you will have arrived in the Gütersloher Land, known for its impressive farms and lively towns, such as Halle Westfalen, Steinhagen and Schloss Holte-Stukenbrock. In the East-Westphalian city of Bielefeld, Sparrenburg castle and the old town district are especially worth seeing. The Senne landscape out in Paderborner Land around Hövelhof provides a really different experience with its blooming heather, fragrant pine forests and crystal-clear streams. The splendid city of Paderborn lies at the end of the route, with its ancient cathedral and modern university. 23 Package On the Trail of the Peace of Westphalia Friedensroute Münster-Osnabrück What’s included Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 176 km Elevation gain: approx. 480 m The Friedensroute Münster-Osnabrück, a modern cycling route following ancient equestrian trails, connects the cities of Münster and Osnabrück. Visit the two town halls with their “Peace Halls” that bear witness to a bygone age, the “Krameramtshaus” or Chandlers Guild Hall in Münster with its stepped gables, and see the lovely half-timbered buildings in Osnabrück’s old town. Along the way, you’ll enjoy the scenery from hilly Teutoburger Wald to Münsterland’s park landscape. - 5 nights in a double room with shower/toilet - 5 x breakfast - Extensive tourist information - City tours of Osnabrück and Münster - Resort tax paid - Baggage transfer available (extra charge applies) Double room from Single room from € 299.00 pp € 339.00 pp Booking period: year-round Info Tourismusverband Osnabrücker Land e. V. p +49(0) 541 9511195 [email protected] www.osnabruecker-land.de 24 Package Where Hase meets Ems (Hase-Ems Luxury Tour) Hase-Ems-Tour What’s included Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 328 km Elevation gain: approx. 360 m Since the last ice age, the rivers Hase and Ems have flowed in the direction you can now take on a bicycle on a route bearing the same name. This cycle route is 328 km long in total, roughly 100 km of which runs through conservation parkland in Osnabrücker Land. Natural landmarks, tourist attractions dotting Osnabrücker Land and the Emsland region, and enchanting scenery accompany you along the entire route. - 3 nights in centrally located 3-star or comparable hotels (plan your own distance and route) - Room with shower/toilet - Cyclist’s breakfast - Map of Hase-Ems-Tour - Extensive tourist information - 1 x puncture repair per group Optional services (extra charges apply): - Baggage transfer (€ 24.00 for 3 days, each additional day + € 8.00/person, minimum 2 persons, in one direction only) - Rental bikes (€ 18.00 for 3 days, each additional day + € 6.00/person) Double room from Single room from Info Tourismusverband Osnabrücker Land e. V. p +49(0) 541 9511195 [email protected] www.osnabruecker-land.de Booking period: April to October Arrival any day 17 € 169.00 pp € 219.00 pp 25 Package “Grafschafter Fietsentour” Circuit Tour Grafschafter Fietsentour What’s included Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 220 km Elevation gain: approx. 300 m From the sandstone cliffs of Isterberg in the south to the Coevorden-Piccardie canal in the north, you’ll get to know every corner of Grafschaft Bentheim on the Grafschafter Fietsentour. Between such special landscapes as heathland and moors, the circuit takes you 220 km through every town in Grafschaft Bentheim, home to treasures of cultural history. Around Bad Bentheim and Uelsen there are slight inclines, but otherwise you’ll zoom effortlessly through Niedersachsen’s most bicycle-friendly county. Discover Bentheim Castle, or take a boat tour through Nordhorn. - 5 nights with breakfast in the towns of Nordhorn, Emlichheim/Ringe, Uelsen, Nordhorn and Bad Bentheim - 1 “Grafschafter Fietsentour” route map and 1 “Grafschaft Bentheim” travel guide per room - 5 suggested routes of 27 to 60 km in length - Statutory bankruptcy insurance - Voucher for free admission to Burg Bentheim Double room from € 229.00 pp Booking period: year-round Info Grafschaft Bentheim Tourismus e.V. p +49(0) 5921 961196 [email protected] www.grafschaft-bentheim-tourismus.de 26 Package Vechtetalroute – From the Source to the Mouth kunstwegenVechtetalroute What’s included Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 224 km Elevation gain: approx. 30 m Parallel to the Vechtetal route, nearly 150 km of “kunstwegen” (art route) meander through the south of the Earldom of Bentheim all the way to Zwolle in the Dutch province of Overijssel (or vice versa) and with nearly no grades. At 80 stations along the route artists have explored nature in their own way, creating sculptures that yield fresh perspectives. Art aficionados encounter nature, and nature lovers encounter art. Starting in Ohne in the south of Grafschaft Benheim, the route takes cyclists via Nordhorn, Lage, Neuenhaus and Emlichheim across the border into the Netherlands, and it can be done in stages. Info Grafschaft Bentheim Tourismus e.V. p +49(0) 5921 961196 [email protected] www.grafschaft-bentheim-tourismus.de 18 Explore the Vechte River valley from its source in Darfeld in Westphalia to its mouth in the Dutch town of Zwolle, on your way passing through Europe’s largest open-air contemporary art museum. - 5 nights in hotel with half-board - Packed lunches for the day - 1 map of the Vechtetalroute per room - Statutory bankruptcy insurance Double room from € 349.00 pp Booking period: year-round 27 Package 7-Day Boxenstopp-Route Boxenstopp-Route What’s included - 6 nights with breakfast in a double room - Information pack and maps - Parking at the starting point Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 304 km Elevation gain: approx. 270 m Let yourself be enchanted by the bucolic scenes along Boxenstopp-Route in Oldenburger Münsterland, which features five recreation areas, and enjoy a great variety of interactive stop-off stations where you can recharge your batteries, catch your breath and relax. Get to know the land and its people, history and traditions and enjoy fresh farm produce in our farmers’ shops and home-baked cakes in our cosy courtyard cafés. Our recreational and cultural facilities offer you a wealth of opportunities along the route to actively experience the region. The trails along Boxenstopp-Route are suitable for everyone from athletic solo riders to pairs and larger groups. It’s an experience the whole family can enjoy together – including grandparents. Looking for a short holiday break? Then ask us about our abbreviated Boxenstopp-Route tour. 28 Optional services (extra charges apply): - additional night: € 45.00 - half-board: € 90.00 - e-bike for the tour: € 105.00 - rental bike: € 42.00 - baggage transfer: € 42.00 Double room from Single room surcharge € 295.00 pp € 90.00 Booking period: daily from April to October Info Verbund Oldenburger Münsterland e.V. p +49(0) 4441 9565-12 [email protected] www.oldenburger-muensterland.de Package 6-Day Circuit for Luxury Lovers 3-Seen-Route What’s included Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 260 km Elevation gain: approx. 270 m Cycle through Oldenburger Münsterland and adjacent Ammerland on one of three cycling routes – Reiherweg, Meerweg and Oldenburger-Münsterland-Radweg – as your ride takes you past three of the largest bodies of water in the northwest: Lake Dümmer, the Thülsfelder Talsperre reservoir and the lake known as the Zwischenahner Meer. Look forward to a varied journey through the vast marshes, sandy heathland, woods and lakes of Oldenburger Münsterland, as well as to rural culture and tasty local cuisine. Treat yourself after an active day of cycling to a luxurious spa experience at one of our first-class hotels. Would you prefer to pedal less and still not miss a lake? Then inquire about our fourday tour for leisurely cyclists. 19 - 5 nights with breakfast in a double room at exclusive hotels - 5 x superior dinner, packed lunches - Use of pool area and various spa treatments and/or welcome vitamin cocktail - Parking at the starting point - Maps Optional services (extra charges apply): - additional night: € 50 – 85.00 - e-bike for the tour: € 90.00 - rental bike: € 39.00 - baggage transfer available upon request Double room from Single room surcharge € 595.00 pp € 140.00 Booking period: year-round Info Verbund Oldenburger Münsterland e.V. p +49(0) 4441 9565-12 [email protected] www.oldenburger-muensterland.de 29 Package Our Best Emsland-Route What’s included Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 295 km Elevation gain: approx. 67 m Exciting excursion destinations along the route include the famous Meyer Werft shipyard, Erlebnispark Emsflower adventure park, Baroque Clemenswerth Palace and the Moormuseum featuring the world’s largest steam plough. Ride the circuit route across the idyllic floodplains of the rivers Ems and Hase, into the mysterious Bourtanger Moor, and through the dense forests of Hümmling. Along the way you’ll pass windmills and watermills, colourful cottage gardens, imposing mansions, historical ships and Stone Age burial mounds. Excellent swimming lakes and climbing parks guarantee holiday fun, while farmhouse cafés and cosy country restaurants turn your breaks into enjoyable treats. Get to know and love Emsland on a 5-stage tour with distances ranging between 37 and 68 km! - 5 nights with breakfast - Free admission to an Emslandmuseum of your choice - 1 map of the Emsland-Route per room - Tourist information Optional services (extra charges apply): baggage transfer, rental bike, half board, travel package insurance, single room, additional night See www.emsradweg.de for further tourist offers on the Emsland-Route Double room from € 239.00 pp Booking period: year-round Info Emsland Touristik GmbH p +49(0) 5931 442266 [email protected] www.emsland.com 30 Package Stone Age Survivors Geest-Radweg What’s included Enjoy 4 comfortable stages of between 39 and 49 km in distance. - 4 nights with breakfast - 1 Geest-Radweg route map per room - Tourist information Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 179 km Elevation gain: approx. 59 m This cycling route connects two charming towns and two rivers: the Hanseatic City of Bremen an der Weser and Meppen an der Ems. With their historical old towns, shops and gastronomic scenes they make ideal starting points and destinations. Between them lie the woodlands of the Emsland region and the Baroque hunting lodge Jagdschloß Clemenswerth, the Oldenburger Münsterland region with the Thülsfelder Talsperre reservoir, Cloppenburg openair museum and the Naturpark Wildeshauser Geest nature reserve. Stone Age barrows 4000 years old are your constant companions along this route. Discover the mysteries of megalithic culture! Info Emsland Touristik GmbH p +49(0) 5931 442266 [email protected] www.emsland.com 20 Optional services (extra charges apply): baggage transfer, half-board, travel insurance, single room, extra night Lots more information about the route at www.geestradweg.de Double room from € 199.00 pp Booking period: year-round 31 Package From Industrial “Ruhrpott” to the Water’s Edge Rad-Route Dortmund-Ems-Kanal What’s included Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 340 km Elevation gain: approx. 90 m Waterways are lifelines and trade routes, they connect ports with ports, cities with the sea, people with goods. They offer technical challenges and quiet refuges along their banks. The over 100-year-old Dortmund-Ems canal is just such a lifeline between the Ruhr region and the North Sea that’s waiting to be explored by bike. Along the way, cyclists experience the bustling industrial “Ruhrpott” region and the serenity of bygone days at the castles and palaces dotted about the Münsterland region. The rolling green expanses of the Emsland region along the banks of the meandering Ems river make the perfect setting for a relaxing time out. The maritime atmosphere of Ostfriesland tells you the North Sea is close by long before you see it. Info Emsland Touristik GmbH p +49(0) 5931 442266 [email protected] www.emsland.com Follow the canal along 7 stages of between 45 and 68 km in distance. - 7 nights with breakfast - 1 Rad-Route Dortmund-Ems-Kanal route map per room - Tourist information Optional services (extra charges apply): baggage transfer, half-board, travel insurance, single room, extra night Double room from € 379.00 pp For beginners we also recommended the tour: „From Münster to Emden“ from € 269.00 Booking period: year-round 32 Package Big Bourtanger-Moor-Tour United Countries Tour What’s included Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 389 km Elevation gain: approx. 30 m Houses, gardens, shops and cafés, bars and restaurants – luckily, we in united Europe have preserved our cultural differences. That’s what makes this cycling tour alongside the German-Dutch border so interesting. The northern “Smokkelroute” follows the old smugglers’ paths, among others to Bourtange fortress and the famous Meyer Werft shipyard. The southern “Pionierroute” explores the moorlands in all their diversity, for example in the Naturschutzgebiet Bargerveen nature reserve and at the large Emsland Moormuseum. Both cycling routes (which may also be combined to form a single tour) and several connecting routes offer a fantastic, varied cycling experience on both sides of the border! Info Emsland Touristik GmbH p +49(0) 5931 442266 [email protected] www.emsland.com Grafschaft Bentheim Tourismus e.V. p +49(0) 5921 961196 [email protected] www.grafschaft-bentheim-tourismus.de 21 Experience unlimited cycling fun over 6 stages of between 45 and 66 km in distance. - 6 nights with breakfast - 1 United Countries Tour route map per room - Tourist information Optional services (extra charges apply): baggage transfer, half-board, rental bike, travel insurance, single room, extra night Double room from € 259.00 pp Booking period: year-round 33 Package Explore Teufelsmoor by Bike Vom Teufelsmoor zum Wattenmeer Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 450 km Elevation gain: approx. 280 m Nature is the main attraction on the 450 km cycling tour that leads through the region between the North Sea and the Elbe and Weser rivers. Powerful rivers, natural watercourses, moorland and heathland lakes and, last but not least, the North Sea with its unique Wadden Sea habitat are the highlights of this cycling route. The moorland region with the well-known Teufelsmoor and a number of other moors and constantly changing scenery make this tour a very special experience. Along the way, there are plenty of great places to take a break – including the ancient Hanse towns, maritime metropolises, coastal resorts, idyllic villages and small towns. Info AG Radwanderweg „Vom Teufelsmoor zum Wattenmeer“ c/o BIS Bremerhaven Touristik t +49(0)471 94646-164 [email protected], www.teufelsmoor-wattenmeer.de 34 This cycling tour takes you from the Altes Land region through Teufelsmoor to the Hanseatic City of Bremen. You spend one night in the Hanse town of Stade and one in the spa town of Bremervörde. From there, the legendary historical Moorexpress train takes you to the artists’ village of Worpswede. You can then continue by bike from there through Teufelsmoor to Bremen. What’s included - 1 night with breakfast in Stade 1 night with breakfast in Bremervörde 2 x packed lunches Ride on the Moorexpress train Double room from Single room surcharge € 149.00 pp € 17.00 Booking period: May to Oct 2013 Arrival days: Thursday and Friday STADE Tourismus-GmbH p +49(0) 4141 409174 [email protected] www.stade-tourismus.de Package The Joys of Solo Cycling along the Deutsche Sielroute Deutsche Sielroute Route profile What’s included Data: Distance: approx. 180 km Elevation gain: approx. 10 m - 3 nights in a double room - Breakfast - 1 Deutsche Sielroute map & resort tax for your stay in Butjadingen. The Deutsche Sielroute runs for 180 signposted kilometres through a unique Weser marsh landscape marked by moors, rivers and lush green meadows populated by flocks of white sheep. It passes by sluices that serve to drain the countryside, along with pumping stations, old mills, museums, quaint churches and thatched half-timbered houses. Farm women at the “Melkhus” that dot the route offer milkshakes and regional specialities. (Note: In some places narrow dike crossings make the route difficult to navigate for bicycle trailers.) Info Touristikgemeinschaft Wesermarsch p +49(0) 4401 856114 [email protected] www.urlaub-wesermarsch.de, www.deutsche-sielroute.de 22 Double room from € 119.00 pp Booking period: year-round Experience the Deutsche Sielroute with e-bikes: Since 2012, the Wesermarsch has been a North Sea-Elbe-Weser movelo region. With an electric bike, you won’t have to worry about biking into headwinds. Nordenham Marketing & Touristik e.V. p +49(0) 4731 93640 [email protected] www.nordenham.net 35 Package Stiff Breeze on the Unterweser Radrundweg Unterweser What’s included Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 165 km Elevation gain: approx. 10 m Experience 165 km of maritime scenery on both sides of the Unterweser between Bremen and the mouth of the Unterweser, where it flows into the North Sea. Starting in Bremen, the cycling route follows the Wümme-Niederung river valley and the promenades bordering the Lesum and Weser rivers, where you can enjoy fine views of ships, beaches and shipyards. The route continues along the dyke to the Seaside City of Bremerhaven. After crossing the Weser, you cycle back through the Wesermarsch to Bremen, past thatched farmhouses and hamlets built along the dyke, and through quaint villages and ports. Thanks to ferry services and tourist boat trips, different round trips and shortcuts are possible, making for relaxing and varied cycling tours. Info Region Unterweser Maritime Landschaft e. V. p +49(0) 172 1851986 [email protected] www.region-unterweser.de - 2 nights with breakfast in middle-class hotels or private guest houses - Ticket for the shipping museum Schifffahrtsmuseum Unterweser or the “Fähre Harriersand” ferry - Boat trip on board the Oceana - Route maps, information pack Optional services (extra charges apply): - Bike rental at the cycle station of Hauptbahnhof Bremen (Bremen central station) - Baggage transfer and tour guide - Travel insurance € 99.00 pp Double room from Single room surcharge on request Booking period: May to September, arrivals Friday and Saturday, June to August, arrivals also Tuesday and Wednesday 36 Radwanderweg Weites Land Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 134 km Elevation gain: approx. 100 m The Radwanderweg Weites Land whisks you away to the unique countryside north of Bremen, with its numerous waterways, extensive protective flood plains and wetlands, idyllic moorland villages and exceptional cultural and landscape history. The Teufelsmoor moorland region, famous for its extraordinary quality of light and mood, the thriving artists’ villages there, Worpswede and Fischerhude, and the history of Vegesacker harbour in the north of Bremen all play an important part in the journey of discovery through three centuries this route lets you make in the space of two or three days. Info AG Radwanderweg Weites Land c/o Touristikagentur Teufelsmoor Worpswede Unterweser e.V. p +49(0) 4791 930481 [email protected], www.weites-land.info 23 Ever since it was settled in the 18th century and intensive peat cutting began, the moor has governed the lives of the people who live here. Today, well-preserved structures from the early settlements, museums and local “Heimathaus” historical exhibitions are living witnesses to the old days. Large expanses of the moor have recently been returned to their natural state and now provide a habitat for rare animal and plant species. A flyer listing cyclist-friendly accommodation along the route can be obtained from the contact address provided. Many accommodation providers offer an optional luggage transport service. Please ask for details. 37 Wümme-Radweg Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 257 km Elevation gain: approx. 280 m The Wümme-Radweg cycling route links Lüneburger Heide with the Hanseatic City of Bremen. The approx. 250 km cycling route circuit (which includes a north and a south route) follows the Wümme river from its source close to the 169 m Wilseder Berg upland to its mouth north of Bremen. The Wümme-Radweg takes you through the changing scenery and settlements of the North German Plain. Dykes, river valleys and meadows, as well as moors and heathlands with their richly diverse plant and animal kingdoms accompany you along your way. Idyllic and sleepy villages, delightful small towns and the“big, wide world” of Bremen are all an open invitation for you to come and explore. Package Wümme-Radweg, a journey of discovery from the Lüneburger Heide heathlands to the Weser river The Arbeitsgemeinschaft Wümme-Radweg will be happy to provide answers to all individual enquiries about available packages. Please don’t hesitate to contact us! Info AG Wümme-Radweg c/o Touristikverband Landkreis Rotenburg (Wümme) p +49(0) 4261 81960 [email protected], www.wuemme-radweg.de 38 Deutsche Fährstraße (Südteil) Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 134 km Elevation gain: approx. 40 m The southern section of the Deutsche Fährstraße cycling route takes in fords and ferries, the impressive transporter bridge with its hanging gondolas dating from the turn of the 20th century as well as modern bridges and tunnel structures. Nowhere will you find so many historical and modern ways to cross water as on this approx. 250 km route along the canal connecting the North and the Baltic Seas, the Niederelbe and Oste rivers. There’s many a maritime treasure to be found tucked away here. Ancient harbours, ships, cranes and warehouses each have their own story to tell as you pass, in turn, through historical towns and Info Agentur für Wirtschaftsförderung Cuxhaven Cuxland Tourismus p +49(0)4721 59 96 17 [email protected] www.cuxland.de 24 picturesque villages, unique marshlands and ideal habitats for birds. The two last-remaining German transporter bridges, in Osten-Hemmoor and in Rendsburg-Osterrönfeld (the third, in Kiel, was taken down in 1923), are the most striking structures, alongside the mighty canal locks on the southern section of the Deutsche Fährstraße bike trail. A number of museums provide information on maritime topics. The outstanding landmark of the Osteland region is the Osten–Hemmoor transporter bridge (a technical cultural monument); in Gräpel and Brobergen, cyclists can still cross the transporter bridge on board a historical hanging gondola. 39 Package Through green countryside and the typical round villages of Wendland Deutsch-Deutscher Radweg What’s included Route profile Data: Distance: approx. 1,019 km Elevation gain: approx. 7,770 m The Deutsch-Deutscher Radweg follows the former inner-German border. Starting from Travemünde on the Baltic coast, you can cycle all the way to Prex on the Czech border (where three countries meet), along more than 1000 km of trail that passes through a landscape filled with life, nature, culture and history. Along the way, you can discover and explore rare habitats, plants and animals, and retrace historical events that changed not only the face of Germany. Info Elbtalaue-Wendland Touristik GmbH Kur- & Touristinformation Hitzacker p +49(0) 5862 96970 [email protected] www.elbtalaue-wendland.de - 5 nights with breakfast, daily packed lunch - 1 evening dinner at Landgasthof Rieger - Baggage transfer - Guided tour of Hitzacker - Ferry crossing Hitzacker – Bitter - Höhbeck – Stresow tour guide - Museum tickets - Coffee and cake in Dannenberg - Map and information pack - Surprise gift € 380.00 pp Double room from Single room surcharge on request Booking period: May to September Exclusion period: Ascension Day – Whitsun, 1st week of August Harzer Tourismusverband p +49(0) 5321 34040 [email protected] www.harzinfo.de Elbtalaue-Wendland Touristik GmbH Kur- & Touristinformation Hitzacker p +49(0) 5862 96970 [email protected] Always know which way to go Whether you are traveling on a cycling route or want to plan your own individual cycling holiday, with the 1:75,000-scale cycling maps published by the Niedersachsen State Agency for Geoinformation and Land Development (LGLN) you’ll always be on the right track. The 26 Niedersachsen cycling maps cover virtually every inch of Niedersachsen and feature regional cycling routes, circuits and long-distance cycling routes based on official maps. The maps also feature information on and pictures of sights, break facilities, places for swimming and much more. They also indicate any steep or poor stretches. Each map contains a booklet with numerous tips about what’s on in the worlds of art, culture, nature and sports. The detailed map thus allows you to vary your cycling route spontaneously. The Niedersachsen cycling maps are obtainable from bookshops. 25 Mountain biking – an adrenaline-fuelled ride across Niedersachsen The terrain can get pretty hilly in the Harz mountains and Naturpark Solling-Vogler – both regions are a veritable paradise for fans of the rapid descent. And that applies in almost any weather: whether summer or winter, for real mountianbikers the challenges posed by nature are the only thing that matters. The more demanding the climb, the more exciting the descent and the more sublime the biking experience. From downhill coursing to singletrack tails, exhilarating drops and breathtaking North Shore trails, mountain biking in Niedersachsen is guaranteed to thrill you. Think this sport is only for young daredevils? Well think again! Mountain biking is becoming increasingly popular and nowadays you’ll see mountain bikers of all ages riding through forests and over mountains, all of them in search of a physical challenge and rewarded with breathtaking views and beautiful countryside. Do you too enjoy taking in the view of a hilly landscape after a demanding climb? Or are you already looking forward to the adrenaline rush on your next downhill? Then you should give it a try! Niedersachsen features many upland areas with great mountain bike regions and trails of varying levels of difficulty. Everyone can find a route to match their skills and fitness level perfectly, for example in Niedersachsen’s two top mountain bike regions: Volksbank Arena Harz and Naturpark Solling-Vogler, where trails have been created and signposted to offer maximum riding fun while being kind to nature at the same time. The other upland areas of Niedersachsen are great for mountain biking too – Deister, Süntel, Göttinger Wald, Rothaargebirge and Harburger Berge all offer tremendous scenery and challenging upland terrain. These areas all feature some signposted mountain bike routes. Don’t own a bike, or prefer not to take it along on holiday? No problem, you can rent one in the Harz mountains and Naturpark Solling-Vogler. Would you like a local expert to guide you through the forest? Need help setting up your bike? How about a GPS unit with local routes? You’ll receive expert on-location support for all these issues and more in our two mountain bike regions. While you’re enjoying the adrenaline rush however, please be considerate of other visitors and animals in the forest and ride only on marked trails! And please observe the rules of the trail! 26 40 Package We Love Bikers – Special Offer for Mountainbikers Volksbank Arena Harz What’s included Route profile Data: Distance: approx. insg. 2,200 km Elevation gain: approx. 59,000 m The largest bikers’ paradise in the North. Its 31 starting points invite you to enjoy the family-friendly “Familientour rund um Buntenbock” that takes you past many of the artificial lakes and ditches of the historical Oberharzer Wasserwirtschaft (today a UNESCO World Heritage site). Sports cyclists appreciate the more challenging Dreimaldrei-Teiche-Tour through open deciduous woodlands near Bad Grund, but the Himmel & Hölle-Tour (“heaven and hell tour”) is only for really ambitious cyclists. Altogether, there are 74 signposted and classified MTB bike trail circuits covering 2,200 km and with a cumulative elevation gain of 59,000 meters – plus three bike parks, where cycling fans can really sharpen up their technique. Info Harzer Tourismusverband p +49(0) 5321 34040 [email protected] www.harzinfo.de VOLKSBANK ARENA HARZ, c/o HARZ-Agentur GmbH p +49(0) 5323 982461 [email protected] www.volksbank-arena-harz.de 41 - 2 nights in a comfortable room with balcony - 2x breakfast from the well-stocked relexa breakfast buffet - 2x dinner (half-board) - Welcome drink, a cool draught beer - Basement parking for your car - Map/information pack in your room - Packed energy lunch on day 2 - Secure bike parking space - Separate drying room for clothing Classic double room Single room € 143.00 pp € 191.00 Booking period: March to November relexa hotel Harz-Wald Braunlage t +49(0) 5520-807-0 [email protected] www.relexa-hotel-braunlage.de Package The Ultimate Mountainbiker’s Dream Mountainbike-Region Naturpark Solling-Vogler What’s included Route profile Data: Distance: approx. insg. 760 km Elevation gain: approx. insges.17,000 m Do steep downhill runs, demanding uphill climbs and lots of natural scenery sound good to you? Altogether, 15 individual routes of varying difficulty (distances 24-59 km) await you along a total of 760 kilometres and with cumulative elevation gains of 17,000 m. Tip: try out the mountainbike trail between Neuhaus and Silberborn. A challenging 7.3 kilometres of narrow single trails, a unique quarry, gravelled woodland paths, some built-in jumps and steep downhill runs will make any biker’s heart beat faster. Solling-Funpark near Merxhausen is ideal for downhill, dual eliminator and cross-country fans. Info Weserbergland Tourismus e.V. p +49(0) 5151 9300-0 [email protected] www.weserbergland-tourismus.de Enjoy the fun of mountainbiking amid some truly glorious countryside. Great simply for the sheer fun of it, but also as marathon training – we put your personal all-round biker package together to suit your needs and tastes. - 2 nights at a hotel or country guest house - 2 x hearty breakfasts - 2 packed lunches to keep you going - 2 three-course Vital-Menü dinners - 1 basket of fruit in your room - Route suggestions and maps Double room from Single room from € 199.00 pp € 229.00 pp Booking period: year-round Solling-Vogler-Region im Weserbergland e.V. p +49(0) 5536 960970 [email protected] www.solling-vogler-region.de 27 This project is funded by the European Regional Development Fund Photo credits All copyrights/rights of use to the photographs published here lie with the following individuals/institutions: Cover: Biker’s view © Trombax / Fotolia.de, Silhouettes: © iStockphoto.com / AskinTulayOver, d-l-b, A-Digit Inside cover, page 1, page 4: : TMN / Peter Hamel Page 5 top: Weserbergland Tourismus e.V.. Page 5 bottom: Franz Frieling Page 6 top, page 20, page 21 all photos: Emsland Touristik GmbH Page 6 bottom: Tourismusverband LK Stade Page 7 top: Deutscher Tourismusverband e.V. Page 7 bottom, page 16 bottom and page 17 top: Tourismusverband Osnabrücker Land e.V. Page 8 top: Touristikverband Landkreis Rotenburg (Wümme) Page 8 bottom: Weserbergland Tourismus e.V. Page 9 top: Archiv STADE Tourismus-GmbH / Martin Elsen Page 9 bottom: Lüneburger Heide GmbH Page 10 top: Tourismus Region Hannover e.V. Page 10 bottom: Zweckverband Aller-Leine-Tal Page 11 top: Südheide Gifhorn GmbH Page 11 bottom: Mittelweser-Touristik GmbH Page 12 / page 13 all photos: Ostfriesland Tourismus GmbH Page 14 top: Meike Wilkens, Ammerland-Touristik Page 14 bottom: Gerd Kaja Page 15 top: Ulrich Schmunkamp Page 15 bottom: Wilhelmshaven Touristik und Freizeit GmbH / Friesland Touristik Gemeinschaft Page 16 top: Ostfriesland Touristik – Landkreis Aurich GmbH Page 17 bottom: Hasetal Touristik GmbH Page 18: Bildarchiv Emsland Touristik GmbH Page 19 top: Verbund Oldenburger Münsterland Page 19 bottom: Verbund Oldenburger Münsterland / Christian Bitter Page 22 top: Udo Fischer / TouROW Page 22 bottom: Nordenham Marketing & Touristik e.V. Page 23 top: Birgit Krüger Page 23 bottom: Touristikagentur Teufelsmoor Worpswede Unter weser e.V./ Karsten Schöpfer Page 24 top: Udo Fischer / TouROW Page 24 bottom: Landkreis Cuxhaven / Bernd Schlüsselburg Page 25 top: Elbtalaue-Wendland Touristik GmbH Page 26: Sebastian Schieck für HARZ-Agentur ClausthalZellerfeld Page 27 top: Holde Schneider für Volksbank Arena Harz Page 27 bottom: Solling-Vogler-Region im Weserbergland e.V. Reverse of map from top left to bottom right: ADFC / J. Lehmkühler; Thomas Froitzheim, HeideRegion Uelzen e.V.; Emsland Touristik GmbH; Bildarchiv Emsland Touristik GmbH; Deutscher Tourismusverband e.V.; Karte Radnetz Deutschland: Deutscher Tourismusverband e.V. The reproduction, storage and reprinting of photographs is not permitted. All services and prices given in the advertisements and tour descriptions are based on the information provided by the addressee in the offer description. The publisher accepts no liability for the accuracy or completeness of such information! 28 www.eu-foerdert.niedersachsen.de Imprint TourismusMarketing Niedersachsen GmbH Essener Straße 1 D-30173 Hannover p+49 (0) 511 270488-0 f +49 (0) 511 270488-88 [email protected] www.reiseland-niedersachsen.de Project manager: Karin Proell, TMN Hannover 2nd edition, December 2012 Design: H.ZWEI.S Werbeagentur GmbH Hannover Map: © Verlag grünes herz Dr. Lutz Gebhardt e. K. Ilmenau und Ostseebad Wustrow Cartography: mr-kartographie, Gotha Production: BWH GmbH – Die Publishing Company Hannover inspiration niedersachsen TourismusMarketing Niedersachsen GmbH Essener Straße 1 30173 Hannover p +49 (0) 511 270488-50 f +49 (0) 511 270488-88 [email protected] www.niedersachsen-tourism.com