Cultural treasures and nature experiences
Out and about by bike in the heart of Upper Lusatia
(djd). In the heart of Upper Lusatia, cultural treasures and fascinating nature experiences lie close together. If you follow the course of the picturesque Spree, which rises in the Upper Lusatian Bergland, after a few kilometers an imposing ensemble of towers and bastions rises on a granite plateau above the river: the memorable silhouette of the thousand-year-old city of Bautzen. The old town with the landmark "Alte Wasserkunst" impresses with ornately decorated facades, contemplative squares, small alleys and an almost completely preserved medieval town fortification. There is a lot to discover for those interested in history - starting with St. Petri Cathedral, which is used by Catholics and Protestants alike, to the Sorbian Museum and the Bautzen Memorial, the former Stasi prison. The charming surrounding area also invites you to travel back in time. Many excursion destinations, including historic villages and small castles with extensive parks, can be explored in a relaxed manner on a bike tour. Shiny golden crosses bear witness to the deeply rooted faith of the Sorbs who live here.
Family bike tour to the reservoir
Cyclists can choose from numerous tours on the almost 3,000-kilometer network of regional trails. The Spree Cycle Path, which connects the Spree springs with Berlin, runs directly through the urban area of Bautzen. You roll along the river bank in the shade of the trees, look up to the Ortenburg and the ruins of the Nikolaikirche and follow the Spreebogen until you reach the reservoir just before the northern city limits. It is worth stopping on the beach promenade to refresh yourself with a cool drink at the Ocean Beach Bar. For a bike trip with children, the lake is also a suitable end point of the tour. Here the kids can let off steam at mini golf, on the playground or in the high ropes course. The dam with a nature trail is also worth a detour.
Discoveries in the biosphere reserve
Nature lovers can take an interesting tour of the Upper Lusatian Heath and Pond Landscape Biosphere Reserve on their bike, for example on the sea eagle trail. Blue frogs, delicate orchids or mighty sea eagles are just some of the protected animals and plants that have found a refuge here. The area is famous for its traditional fish farming, which has shaped the region for centuries. You should definitely make a stop at the visitor center of the biosphere reserve, the "Haus der tausend Teiche" (House of a Thousand Ponds) in Wartha. The fascinating exhibition on flora and fauna with guided tours in the area does not only inspire families.
