The best cycling routes around Dissen-Striesow

I have never seen so many swans at once as here.

Beautiful cycle path along the old Lübben-Cottbus district railway

A very nice cycle path always along the Spree with good rest opportunities

If you've ever wanted to experience how relaxing a straight line can be, the Nordumfluter cycle path is the perfect place for you. The path runs parallel to the canal of the same name – a straight ribbon through meadows, with expansive views and a well-maintained asphalt surface. Ideal for touring bikes, e-bikes, or relaxed family outings. Especially on hot days, the open landscape has an almost meditative feel. Accompanied by the babbling of the canal, you cycle through the Spreewald Biosphere Reserve without being interrupted by the hustle and bustle of tourists. Those seeking peace and quiet will find it here. Those who want to cover distance can do so too. Every now and then, forks invite you to take small detours – for example, to the locks or rest stops. Benches are provided at regular intervals, usually with beautiful views of the water. An ideal section to really take a deep breath.

Anyone traveling along the cycle path south of Schmogrow should pause here for a moment. What at first glance appears to be just another weir made of concrete, steel, and a bit of graffiti is actually a central point in the Spreewald water system: this is where the Spree divides. The river is divided by two adjustable branches – the so-called Main Spree and the North Floodplain. One branch feeds the Spreewald, the other serves primarily for drainage and flood protection. A small sign explains its function – but otherwise, little hints at the significance of this place. But anyone who knows a bit about it knows: Without this spot, the Spreewald would look different. For cyclists, the area is ideal for a short break. The paths are wide and paved, and the view across the water extends far into the open lowland landscape. There are no seating areas, but if you sit on the concrete edge with a sandwich, you can listen to the gentle rippling, which here becomes part of the landscape through technology.

Anyone cycling through Striesow should stop briefly at the large oak tree with its wooden bell tower – not only for the prospect of a shady rest, but also for the small piece of history that becomes apparent here. The freestanding wooden bell tower looks almost like an oversized birdhouse, but sits firmly on a massive foundation – built to be heard.

Anyone cycling through Lusatia should definitely stop in Dissen. Right next to the neo-Gothic church is the local history museum, which at first glance seems a bit inconspicuous – but inside, it's a small time capsule. Here, you get a very tangible impression of the everyday life of the Sorbian/Wendish population: What did a peasant household look like a hundred years ago? How did women dress, what customs were practiced, what stories did people tell around the spinning wheel on long winter evenings? The exhibition not only features everyday objects, but also around 20 variations of Lower Sorbian festive costume – arranged with attention to detail. It becomes particularly lively when you delve into the traditional legends and fairy tales, which are presented here with documentary seriousness, but also with a wink. Directly behind the museum begins the archaeologically inspired open-air area "Stary lud" – "The Old People." A Slavic settlement with five pit houses has been reconstructed here, as they might have existed during the Lusitian period in the early Middle Ages. This isn't Disneyland, but a carefully designed site that demonstrates how the region's early settlers might have lived – with mud buildings, open fireplaces, and a lot of manual labor. The entire complex is open between May and October. Those lucky enough to visit on a themed weekend or experience one of the guided tours, where experts share their enthusiastic stories. Particularly popular is the Slavic Middle Ages Festival at the end of May – with music, crafts, and camp life.

Nestled in the countryside, not far from the Spree Cycle Path, lies the stork village of Dissen – a place that welcomes cyclists not with spectacle, but with quiet, grounded diversity. Those who take a break here will discover more than just a few nests on the roofs: an open-air museum, a lovingly tended herb garden, wooden animal figures, a small information trail about the changing landscape, and the "Stork House" – all framed by half-timbered houses, fieldstone, and the scent of wood and summer meadows. The ensemble acts like a living classroom for nature and culture. Children can explore, while adults can quietly read the information panels – or simply breathe in the fresh air. Seating and a playground make the place family-friendly, the signage is well-designed, and access is straightforward. You're welcome here, with no admission charge or mandatory program. Tip: If you have a little more time, you can wander through the exhibition on the Spree floodplain or explore the historic village structure. Ideal for a relaxing rest – with substance.