The best traffic-free bike rides around Straupitz

It is simply dreamlike beautiful here 😊.

Anyone following the Gurkenradweg (Cucumber Cycle Path) or simply looking for a quiet, scenic stretch will find what they're looking for on the way to Alt Zauche. The cycle path leads along narrow asphalt strips, flanked by birch and old deciduous trees that provide welcome shade on hot days. Meadows open up to the left and right, where cows graze peacefully and—with a little luck—you might even spot storks searching for frogs or insects among the animals. The path is flat, easy to navigate, and suitable even for less fit cyclists. On weekends, it's busy but never crowded—ideal for letting your eyes wander and slowing down. Anyone who embarks on this section will experience a piece of a true biosphere reserve: unpretentious, pristine, and authentic. A photo stop is almost inevitable—be it for the cows, the storks, or simply for the play of light between the leaves. Shortly before Alt Zauche, the view widens, the path opens up, and around a bend lies the village – nestled in green meadows, with lovingly tended gardens and the characteristic stork's nest on the mast. Those who arrive here have gained more than just a milestone – they have captured a small dose of Spreewald soul.

Alt Zauche Mill Tradition, bike racks, and Spreewald hospitality – a stop that stays with you Anyone traveling along the Gurkenradweg (Gherkin Cycle Path) and passing through Alt Zauche by chance (or purposefully) should definitely stop at the lovingly restored mill. The place looks almost like something out of a picture book: two large log cabins with curved roofs, dark wood on the outside, and warm hospitality on the inside. In front of it, a mighty mill wheel – today more decorative than functional, but still impressive. The mill is not a museum, but a lively inn with its own unique style. Those who take a seat outside on the wooden benches are treated to a true Spreewald experience: Spreewald beer, freshly tapped, and pickles to eat. No frills, no gimmicks, just honest food, honest prices, and honest people. The menu is down-to-earth, the service attentive but not intrusive. Those looking for regional classics will find what they're looking for. Cyclists aren't second-class guests here—quite the opposite. The bike rack area is spacious, there are shady spots, and e-bikes are also accommodated. Those who love their bikes will feel right at home here. Flowers in small vases sit on the tables, with bread baskets next to them, often with pickled cucumber slices as a greeting. The interior is rustic and cozy, while outside, the light alternates between the parasols and birch trees. The mill is ideal for both a quick stop with a drink and a longer lunch break. If you're lucky, you'll meet locals at the next table who are happy to talk about the place, the water level, and old stories. If you're unlucky, you'll encounter rain—but even then, you'll still be sitting here dry and comfortable.

Anyone traveling along the Gurkenradweg (Gherkin Cycle Path) and passing through Alt Zauche by chance (or purposefully) should definitely stop at the lovingly restored mill. The place looks almost like something out of a picture book: two large log cabins with curved roofs, dark wood on the outside, and warm hospitality on the inside. In front of it, a mighty mill wheel – today more decorative than functional, but still impressive. The mill is not a museum, but a lively inn with its own unique character. Those who sit outside on the wooden benches are treated to a true Spreewald experience: Spreewald beer, freshly tapped, and pickles to eat. No frills, no gimmicks, just honest food, honest prices, and honest people. The menu is down-to-earth, the service attentive but not intrusive. Those looking for regional classics will find what they're looking for. Cyclists aren't second-class guests here – quite the opposite. The bike rack area is spacious, there are shady spots, and e-bikes are also accommodated. Anyone who loves their bike will feel right at home here. Flowers in small vases stand on the tables, alongside bread baskets, often with pickled cucumber slices as a greeting. Inside, it's rustic and cozy, while outside, the light alternates between parasols and birch trees. The mill is ideal for both a quick stop with a drink and a longer lunch break. If you're lucky, you'll meet locals at the next table who are happy to talk about the place, the water level, and old stories. If you're unlucky, you'll encounter rain – but even then, you'll still be sitting here dry and comfortable.

Anyone cycling in the Spreewald should look up more often – not just for the sun, but also for the storks. A majestic nest sits perched on a simple metal platform, high above the treetops. A white stork stands in it, motionless as a statue. Perhaps on guard duty, perhaps meditating – you never know. One thing is certain: it belongs here. The region is considered rich in storks, and that's no coincidence. The branching waterways, moist meadows, and abundant food make the Spreewald a five-star stork habitat. The nests – often on artificial platforms like this one – can be seen from afar. A quick stop is always worthwhile: If you're lucky, you might even spot young birds or a clattering greeting ritual. For cyclists, this is a quiet, dignified moment – in the midst of nature, away from the major attractions. Not a place to linger, but a place to pause. And perhaps to silently marvel at how cleverly animals choose their vantage points.

A particularly relaxing section of the Gurkenradweg (Gherkin Cycle Path) runs between fields, tree-lined avenues, and a hint of Brandenburg's expanse: the designated cycle path. Pedaling here, you'll immediately notice that this path isn't just formally reserved for cyclists—it also feels that way. Smooth asphalt, hardly any car traffic, and if a tractor does appear, it's usually a friendly greeting. This is where you can experience the Spreewald, not just cross it. The route leads through light avenues, past fields, cows, and the occasional small stream—it's a path where cycling becomes a rhythm. Especially in the morning and evening hours, an almost meditative silence hangs over the landscape. If you like to take photos or simply want to take a deep breath, you should definitely take a break here—sometimes just looking at the wind is enough to realize how little you need. Tip: Ideal for families and leisurely cyclists—few inclines, little hustle and bustle, lots of scenery. A real highlight for all those who not only want to reach their destination but also want to relax.

Anyone cycling from Burg towards Guhrow or further towards Kolonie will almost inevitably cross it: the Nordkanalfluter. Or, more precisely, its bridge. It's one of those quiet highlights along the way that you'd almost miss – were it not for its strange expanse. From here, the view opens up in two directions: To the west, the water gently meanders through the meadows, flanked by gnarled railings and lush summer greenery. To the east, the Fluter becomes a straight line, flanked by dikes, meadows, and – if the light is right – a sky that tells more about the Spreewald than any guidebook. What's here? Nothing. No sign, no bench, no café. Just landscape. But in its purest form. And that's more than you get at many "must-sees." An ideal place for a short break, for a photo – or for a conversation with yourself.

A round trip takes about 2 hours. The ship is a paddle steamer.