A cycling adventure through Europe

I kicked off my journey in the vibrant city of Berlin, with its rich history and modern vibe. Cycling through the Brandenburg Gate and along the Berlin Wall, I was immersed in the city’s fascinating past. Heading northwest, I reached Stendal, a town known for its charming medieval architecture. A highlight was St. Mary’s Church, a Gothic masterpiece.

Additional Information: Did you know that Stendal is home to the Uenglinger Tor, one of the last preserved medieval city gates in Germany? Cycling through it felt like a trip back in time.

Leaving Stendal behind, I pedaled south towards Braunschweig. The journey led me through serene landscapes and quaint villages. Braunschweig, with its striking Brunswick Cathedral, was a perfect blend of history and charm.

Today’s ride took me to Bad Salzuflen, a spa town known for its therapeutic baths and lush greenery. The historic old town, with its half-timbered houses, exuded a tranquil atmosphere. Exploring the Gradierwerk, a salt-evaporation tower, I felt rejuvenated by the surrounding nature.

Additional Information: Bad Salzuflen is famous for its “Kurpark,” a stunning parkland that hosts concerts and events. The picturesque landscapes and relaxing ambience make it a perfect spot to unwind.

I took the train from Hameln to Löhne, cycled from there to Bad Salzuflen (see next day).

Not ridden! I took the train.

First cycled from Löhne to Bad Salzuflen, slept there, then to Herford.

Not ridden! I took the train.

Crossing the border into the Netherlands, I reached Enschede, a vibrant Dutch city. The Oude Markt, surrounded by lively cafes and bars, was the perfect place to experience Dutch hospitality. Cycling through Enschede, I felt the lively energy of the city’s cultural scene.

Additional Information: Enschede is home to the Rijksmuseum Twenthe, an art museum with an impressive collection spanning from the Middle Ages to contemporary art. The museum’s diverse exhibits offer a glimpse into Dutch artistic heritage.

Not ridden! I took the train.

Leaving Amsterdam behind, I pedaled towards the modern metropolis of Rotterdam. The city’s futuristic architecture, including the Cube Houses and Erasmus Bridge, gave me a taste of contemporary Dutch design. The bustling Markthal offered a feast for the senses with its diverse culinary offerings.

Additional Information: Rotterdam is known for its modern architecture, and the Cube Houses were designed by architect Piet Blom. The innovative design and tilted structure make them a symbol of Rotterdam’s avant-garde spirit.

The road from Rotterdam led me south to Antwerp, a city synonymous with artistic heritage. Cycling through the historic center, I discovered the Cathedral of Our Lady, housing masterpieces by the legendary painter Peter Paul Rubens. The intricate details of the artworks transported me back to the Flemish Baroque era.

Pedaling further into Belgium, I arrived in the medieval fairy-tale city of Bruges. Cycling along the cobblestone streets, I admired the well-preserved medieval architecture and picturesque canals. The Belfry of Bruges, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provided panoramic views of the enchanting city.

Additional Information: Did you know that Bruges is famous for its chocolate? Exploring the city’s chocolate shops and indulging in some sweet treats is a must for any cyclist with a sweet tooth.

Leaving Belgium behind, I cycled southward to the charming French city of Lille. The Grand Place, surrounded by opulent buildings, was a captivating sight. Lille’s blend of Flemish and French influences was evident in its architecture, cuisine, and lively atmosphere.

Additional Information: Lille is renowned for its Palais des Beaux-Arts, one of the largest museums in France. The museum’s impressive collection spans from Antiquity to the 20th century, offering a comprehensive journey through art history.

Not ridden! I took the train.

The iconic city of lights awaited me as I pedaled towards Paris. The Eiffel Tower, standing tall against the Parisian skyline, was a surreal sight. Cycling along the Seine River, I passed landmarks such as Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Louvre Museum, immersing myself in the cultural heart of France.

Additional Information: Paris is not only about monuments; the Montmartre district is a bohemian haven with its artistic history and charming cafes. Exploring the narrow streets and visiting the Sacré-Cœur Basilica offer a different perspective of the city.

Not ridden! I took the train.

Heading south along the scenic route, I reached the city of Orleans. The Joan of Arc Square and the Cathedral of Sainte-Croix were prominent landmarks, each with its own historical significance. Orleans, with its medieval charm, provided a tranquil interlude before the journey continued.

Additional Information: Orleans is closely tied to the story of Joan of Arc, and the Place du Martroi features a bronze statue of the legendary heroine. It’s a poignant reminder of the city’s historical significance.

The picturesque Loire Valley welcomed me as I cycled towards Tours. This region is a treasure trove of vineyards and châteaux. Cycling along the Loire River, I encountered the Château de Villandry with its exquisite gardens, a true testament to Renaissance elegance.

Additional Information: The Loire Valley is renowned for its wine, and a visit to a local vineyard is a must. Sampling the region’s wines and learning about the winemaking process adds a delightful flavor to the cycling journey.

Leaving the enchanting Loire Valley, my bicycle wheels spun towards the historic city of Poitiers. The Notre-Dame la Grande, a Romanesque church adorned with intricate sculptures, greeted me as I entered the city. Poitiers, with its medieval charm, offered a glimpse into France’s rich architectural heritage.

Not ridden! I took the train.

Leaving the urban allure of Bordeaux, I pedaled westward to the coastal town of Biscarrosse. The shimmering Lake Biscarrosse and the vast sandy beaches were a refreshing change. Cycling along the coast, the Dune du Pilat, Europe’s tallest sand dune, stood as a natural wonder against the Atlantic horizon.

Additional Information: Biscarrosse is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Trying out surfing, windsurfing or kayaking on Lake Biscarrosse adds an adventurous touch to the cycling expedition.

The journey through the French countryside led me to Mont-de-Marsan, a town rich in cultural heritage. The Despiau-Wlérick Museum, dedicated to sculpture, showcased the town’s artistic side. Mont-de-Marsan’s traditional Landes festivals and bullfighting events highlighted its unique Gascon culture.

Additional Information: Mont-de-Marsan hosts the Feria de la Madeleine, a vibrant celebration of Gascon traditions. Experiencing the lively atmosphere, traditional music, and street festivities is a cultural immersion not to be missed.

Continuing southward, the Pink City of Toulouse welcomed me with its terracotta-colored buildings and lively atmosphere. Cycling along the Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, I marveled at the beauty of the historic waterway and the iconic Basilica of Saint-Sernin.

Additional Information: Toulouse is an aerospace hub, and the Cité de l’Espace (Space City) offers a fascinating journey into space exploration. Exploring space artifacts and interactive exhibits adds a cosmic touch to the cycling adventure.

Not ridden! I took the train.

The medieval fortress of Carcassonne awaited me, rising majestically on the horizon. Cycling through the cobbled streets of the fortified city, I felt transported back in time. The UNESCO-listed site, with its double walls and turreted towers, was a true marvel.

Additional Information: Carcassonne comes alive with the sound of the Carcassonne Festival in the summer. The medieval jousting tournaments and street performances add a festive and historical touch to the city.

Heading towards the Mediterranean, my bicycle rolled into Cap d’Agde, a seaside resort town. The golden sandy beaches and the vibrant harbor were a stark contrast to the medieval architecture of the previous days. The coastal breeze and the sound of the waves provided a serene backdrop.

Additional Information: Cap d’Agde is known for its nudist village, the world’s largest. While it might not be everyone’s cup of tea, the village is an interesting and unique aspect of the town.

Leaving the coastal ambiance behind, I set my sights on the picturesque town of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. The Camargue region, known for its marshlands and wild horses, surrounded me as I cycled towards the seaside. The Romanesque fortress church, dominating the skyline, offered panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the Camargue.

Pedaling eastward, the vibrant city of Marseille unfolded before me. The Old Port, bustling with activity, showcased Marseille’s maritime heritage. Cycling to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde, perched on a hill, I was rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.

Additional Information: Marseille is a melting pot of cultures, and the Le Panier district is a testament to this diversity. Exploring its narrow streets, adorned with street art and vibrant colors, offers a glimpse into Marseille’s multicultural identity.

Continuing along the Mediterranean coastline, I reached the charming port city of Toulon. The vibrant markets, such as the Cours Lafayette, were a sensory delight with their array of local produce and Provencal specialties. Toulon’s naval history was evident in the Arsenal and the Maritime Museum, providing a fascinating maritime perspective.

Additional Information: Toulon is surrounded by beautiful beaches, and Mourillon Beach is a local favorite. Taking a break from cycling to relax on the sandy shores and enjoy the Mediterranean sun is a rejuvenating experience.

Cycling along the scenic coastal route, I reached the glamorous St. Tropez. The azure waters of the Mediterranean, luxury yachts in the harbor, and the iconic Place des Lices market created an atmosphere of sophistication. Exploring the cobbled streets lined with boutiques and cafes, I embraced the chic charm of St. Tropez.

Additional Information: St. Tropez is renowned for its artistic community, and the Annonciade Museum showcases works by artists who were part of the town’s cultural revolution. The museum offers a fascinating insight into the art scene that flourished in St. Tropez.

The final stretch of my cycling adventure led me to the glamorous city of Nice, nestled on the French Riviera. The Promenade des Anglais, with its palm-lined boulevard overlooking the Mediterranean, was the perfect culmination of the journey. As I cycled through the Old Town (Vieux Nice), the colorful buildings and lively markets encapsulated the vibrant spirit of the city.

Additional Information: Nice is famous for its Carnival, one of the largest in the world. The lively parades, vibrant costumes, and artistic floats create a festive atmosphere, making it a perfect time to experience the city’s celebratory energy.