Between vineyards, the Elbe valley and enchanted valleys - the fast gravel tour with the best of both worlds. The gravel tour is characterized by a varied route with a high proportion of asphalt, which enables fast rides and combines scenic attractions and historical places. In between, there are always varied sections on natural and gravel paths - perfect for all gravel riders who want to travel fast and still experience nature and history.
The circular tour starts at the "An der Festwiese" parking lot in Radebeul. Right from the start, you can enjoy the charming landscape of the Elbe valley. You first cycle westwards on the Elbe cycle path, always along the picturesque Elbe meadows. You can really pick up speed on the almost flat asphalt surface. After Kaditz, you cross the Elbe and immerse yourself in the idyllic villages and valleys on the left bank of the Elbe. The route leads past the Zschonergrund nature reserve. For a first break, it is worth taking a detour to the Zschonergrund natural swimming pool or the historic Zschoner Mühle mill, where you can enjoy a cool drink in the beer garden. You can also visit the Vorwerk Podemus organic farm for refreshments and enjoy the view of nature.
The first meters of elevation gain are collected on the further ride through the tranquil villages of Dresden-Pennrich, Gompitz and Freital-Wurgwitz. From Wurgwitz to Kesselsdorf, the route then follows the Edgar Rudolph Trail, a former railroad line that connected Freital with Wilsdruff until 1972. The old railroad embankment with its aisle through forest and meadow is a reminder of this region's past.
The trail winds its way along old country roads around Klipphausen, past forest edges, through the hinterland with historic farmsteads, mills and well-kept village churches. Up to Naustadt, the route follows a gently sloping section with a variety of small undulations that provide short bursts of speed. Finally, you can enjoy the descent to Gauernitz. After a final short climb, you can take a break at Eichhörnchengrund near Gauernitz, where you will also find the Schulzemühle, Germany's smallest, accessible watermill that is still in production on a scale of 1:5. From here, the tour continues through the wild and romantic Regenbach valley to Constappel, where you meet the Elbe again and can enjoy an impressive panoramic view along the riverbank. After crossing the river at Niederwartha, the cycle route comes full circle: you return to the Elbe cycle path and follow it in a relaxed manner to Radebeul.
If you want to end the day in the historic village center of Altkötzschenbroda, you will find many cosy cafés, bars and restaurants. Lovers of typical regional wines are spoiled for choice thanks to the many idyllic wineries located here. For example, you can stop off at the Hoflößnitz winery and marvel at the wine museum.
If you have even more time and would like to immerse yourself in the history of Karl May and his adventures, the Karl May Museum is the place to go.
Trail conditions:
32.8 km asphalt, 11.1 km road, 5.2 km gravel path, 3.7 km nature trail, 1.0 km other
Medium to difficult climbs on asphalt and loose ground
