The best traffic-free bike rides around Bernau bei Berlin

There are 18 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Bernau bei Berlin featured in this guide. These routes offer a mix of easy, moderate, and difficult options, ensuring there's something for every skill level.

The gravel trails in Bernau bei Berlin primarily traverse the diverse landscapes of the Barnim Nature Park. You'll encounter a mix of unpaved sections, compacted gravel, and forest paths, often shaded by extensive woodlands. Some routes also include paved sections, particularly when connecting different natural areas. This variety provides an engaging and authentic gravel biking experience.

Yes, several routes are suitable for families looking for an easier ride. For example, the Schönower Heide Nature Reserve – Schönower Heide Entrance loop from Faule Wiesen bei Bernau is an easy 25 km route that allows for a relaxed experience through nature. The region's flat terrain and well-maintained paths within the nature park make it ideal for family outings.

Many of the no-traffic gravel routes around Bernau bei Berlin are designed as circular loops, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. A great example is the Lake Liepnitz – Forest trail at Lake Liepnitz loop from ADGB Trade Union School, which offers a scenic circular tour around the beautiful Lake Liepnitz.

The trails often lead through the Barnim Nature Park, offering views of extensive forests, kettle lakes, and river valleys. You can cycle past the exceptionally clean Lake Liepnitz, explore the Panke Riverside Path, or discover the Blankenburg Carp Ponds. Historic sites like Dammsmühle Castle are also accessible near some routes, adding cultural interest to your ride.

Absolutely. The region is known for its beautiful lakes. The Forest trail at Lake Liepnitz – Teufelspfuhl loop from Bernau-Friedenstal is a longer route that provides extensive views of Lake Liepnitz, known for its clear waters and surrounding forests. Many other routes also pass by smaller lakes and ponds within the nature park.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from 168 ratings. Reviewers often praise the quiet, car-free nature of the routes, the beautiful forested landscapes, and the opportunity to combine cycling with refreshing dips in lakes like Liepnitzsee. The varied terrain and well-maintained paths are also frequently highlighted.

Yes, Bernau bei Berlin is well-connected to the larger Berlin area via public transport, including the S-Bahn. This makes it convenient to reach the starting points of many routes without a car. Several trails, like those around Lake Liepnitz, are easily accessible from S-Bahn stations, allowing for a seamless transition from city to nature.

For those seeking a longer and more challenging ride, the Gravel path to Lake Gorinsee – Panke Cycle Path loop from Bernau is a difficult 45.5 km route with a notable elevation gain. This trail combines gravel paths with sections of the scenic Panke Cycle Path, offering a rewarding experience for experienced riders.

The best time for gravel biking in Bernau bei Berlin is generally from spring to autumn. During these seasons, the weather is pleasant, and the forests are vibrant. Spring offers blooming nature, while autumn provides stunning foliage. Summer is also excellent, especially for routes that pass by lakes, allowing for a refreshing swim after your ride.

While the focus is on gravel, some routes offer smoother surfaces. The Paved Forest Cycle Path – Schönower Heide loop from Schönower Heide is an easy 25 km route that incorporates paved sections through the forest, providing a comfortable ride while still immersing you in nature. This can be a good option for beginners or those preferring a less rugged experience.