The best traffic-free bike rides around Neu Zauche

In the middle of Alt Zauche, where cycle paths intersect, signposts jam, and one's foot almost enters the Spreewald, stands an old electricity pylon with a venerable extension: the stork's nest. Two white storks sit enthroned there like the landscape's honor guards – overlooking meadows, paths, and the flower-decorated Spreewald boat, which rests decoratively in the front yard. You almost inevitably pass here when traveling on the Gurkenradweg (Gherkin Cycle Path) or one of its side branches – even if it's just to stop for a moment, take a look, listen to the clatter, or take a photo. Because the nest is not only prominent, but also inhabited. Practical tip: It's worth stopping here for a moment. The intersection offers an overview, the stork's nest a moment of serenity – and if you like, you can pick up a Spreewald schnitzel or a cucumber snack in the village. There are also small rest areas not far away. Bike-friendly, authentic and full of Spreewald atmosphere.

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 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.

Anyone traveling along the Gurkenradweg (Gherkin Cycle Path) cannot miss Straupitz – and they shouldn't. The castle, with its park-like surroundings, is located directly on the stream, where the Spreewald captains' boats leisurely float along. In the background, the imposing twin-towered church peeks through the trees. The cycle path runs within sight of the water here, offering an ideal opportunity for a longer rest. The meadow on the bank is perfect for a picnic, the café in the old castle tempts with cakes and shandlers, and if you're lucky, you'll snag a spot on the terrace overlooking the water. Children will also find their fill here – the rafts and boats look like toys from another era. Convenient: There's a bike rack, and signposts help with orientation. This is an ideal stop for anyone who enjoys nature, culture, and a touch of Spreewald romance. If you want to continue, follow the little yellow cucumber on the sign – it knows the way.

An idyllic ensemble of bench, trail marker, and nature. Next to it, a sign in sober green points toward the Buschmühle and the castle, as if it were all a matter of course. And yet, it feels as if someone had brought an old Spreewald calendar to life here – the birches rustle, mosquitoes buzz, and somewhere in the distance a cuckoo calls. The bench itself: not a design object, but a genuine piece of wood – a little crooked, but comfortable enough for an apple break or a slice of bread and pickles. From here, if you like, you can take in the Stropitz circular hiking trail or simply stretch out your feet and listen to the gentle whisper of the meadows. A place for short breaks and big thoughts – and if you keep your eyes open, you'll discover more of the Spreewald in the simplicity of this corner than in many a tourist gondola.

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.

Great sand and warm water!

Use Neu Zauche as a starting point for exploring the Spreewald Biosphere Reserve by boat