On this trip, it seemed I was not only exploring some of northern Germany’s most beautiful towns, but also searching for the perfect cycling routes. Before meeting a friend in Hamburg, I came across a town called Schwerin. Surprisingly, I had never even heard of it before. So, I decided to spend a few days cycling in Schwerin and exploring the beautiful Schweriner See by bike. It turned out to be one of the highlights of my trip. In fact, it was absolutely worth it!
Different to my cycling in Potsdam, yet just as nice! - Read: Potsdam, the lakes and the Tempelhof Airport Berlin.
_____________________________
Cycling in Schwerin
Schwerin is the capital and second-largest city of the northeastern German state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. It has a population of around 100,000 people. The castle was built between 1845 and 1857. One of the best activities in Schwerin is cycling, and it sits on an island in Schweriner See, creating one of the most beautiful views in Germany. In fact, it looks stunning from every direction and every angle.
There are plenty of reasons to visit Schwerin. For example, the city has a charming old town and the beautiful Schweriner See. However, the main attraction is Schwerin Castle. And cycling to and from the castle is quite easy, making cycling in Schwerin a real pleasure.
I would consider it as majestic as the Hunedoara castle in Romania. Read: Hunedoara Castle and other must see spots in Romania.
_____________________________
For a few days, I simply enjoyed cycling in Schwerin and around Schweriner See. One day, I completed the full loop of about 62 km. The next day, I chose the shorter route of around 31 km, crossing the bridge near the village of Rampe.
Although it was a bit windy, it was still a fantastic ride. Better yet, I ended each day with a refreshing swim in Schweriner See. Who would have thought I’d even find a beach here? As such, cycling in Schwerin gave me more surprises than expected.
Overall, cycling in Schwerin and visiting Schwerin Castle turned out to be an unexpected highlight of my trip. I would happily do it again!
…
Quick stop in Hamburg
I was in Hamburg at the same time two years ago (Hamburg and my Northern Europe road trip), on my way north to Sweden. Back then, it was just as hot and humid as it was this time. I guess that’s one of the reasons I headed north again, hoping to avoid the rain further south.
On a sunny day, Hamburg is an amazing city. Cycling in Hamburg is one of the best ways to explore it. I especially enjoyed riding through the modern HafenCity and past the impressive Elbphilharmonie.
The locals certainly know how to make the most of the sunshine. Everywhere I looked, there were cyclists, runners, and people enjoying the lakes. Later that afternoon, I joined them and relaxed in Hamburg’s Stadtpark with a refreshing drink. It was the perfect way to end the day.
Where the Schweriner See was more relaxing, not having the big city vibe, cycling in Schwerin and Hamburg was fun!
Otherwise, I caught up with a friend, dined, wrote blog posts and cycled around a big cemetery. Oh, and I even walked under the River Elbe through the Old Elbe Tunnel, which was built in 1911. Today, it is open to pedestrians and cyclists only. Awesome!
I like coming to Hamburg and I am sure I will be back in Hamburg and the surroundings. Especially for some cycling in Schwerin whenever possible as it’s a great escape from the city.
Maybe I will go inside the Schwerin Castle next time?
And so…
For now, my Northern Germany trip had come to an end. Next, I headed southeast to Dresden once again. It is one of my favourite cities in Germany. Unfortunately, it was quite stormy when I arrived. Nevertheless, the city was just as grand as I remembered. Read more here: Dresden Winter vs. Dresden Summer.
Looking back, cycling in Schwerin and exploring Schweriner See were among the highlights of this journey.
(post 139)
