Cycling routes along the North Sea coast in Germany

We've compiled the most beautiful cycling routes along the German North Sea coast for you. Find out what's important when cycling with a dog and how to transport your small dog safely and comfortably on your bike.

1. St. Peter-Ording: From the Wadden Sea to the beach

The starting point for this leisurely tour is the mudflats at Vollerwiek beach in St. Peter-Ording . You'll cycle along the promenade towards the beach, following the dike cycle path , the salt marshes , and a section of the North Sea Cycle Route . A short stop at the Marleens Knoll viewing platform offers a beautiful view of the sea. A cycle bridge takes you across the beach directly to the water's edge , where you can park your bike. Once on the beach, you can let your dog run free in the designated dog park , relax, and watch your furry friend play. The route is approximately 16 km long, flat, and ideal for a relaxing break by the sea.

Starting point : Vollerwiek beach
Destination : Ording dog beach
Distance : 19km, 1 hour

2. North Sea Cycle Route (EuroVelo 12): Cycling along the North Sea with your dog

The approximately 33-kilometer bike tour starts at the harbor in Dagebüll and leads along the North Frisian-Holstein Wadden Sea dike to the very north of Germany. Cycling along the dike, you'll enjoy expansive views of the sea , passing sheep , salt marshes , and small artificial mounds (Warften) . The route is well-maintained, flat, and ideal for relaxed rides with your dog in your pannier. The destination is the northernmost point of mainland Germany, on the Danish border. A special place offering tranquility, nature, and a touch of Scandinavian vastness.

Starting point : Port of Dagebüll
Destination : Northernmost point of mainland Germany
Distance : 30km, 1 hour 30 minutes

3. Viking-Frisian Trail: Historical cycle path between Tönning and Friedrichstadt (dog-friendly)

The approximately 18-kilometer bike tour from Tönning to Friedrichstadt follows historic paths through the expansive landscape of Schleswig-Holstein. You start at the train station in Tönning. From there, you can follow the signs for the Viking-Frisian Trail, marked by a stylized blue, white, and red Viking ship . Whether you prefer a leisurely ride or plan longer stages, this route offers diverse scenery , historical sights , and plenty of opportunities for dog-friendly breaks .

Starting point : Tönning train station
Destination : Friedrichstadt
Distance : 18km, 1 hour

4. North Sea Cycle Route from Krückau-Sperrweg to Brunsbüttel

For a varied tour along the Elbe River, the route from the Krückau barrage to Brunsbüttel is ideal. Covering approximately 44 kilometers, it follows the North Sea Cycle Route, mostly directly along the water, and offers expansive views across the marshland and the Elbe estuary . Glückstadt, with its historic harbor and charming cafes, is a worthwhile stop. The route is well-maintained and flat, perfect for a relaxed ride with your dog in a pannier . With a riding time of around two and a half hours, there's plenty of time for breaks on dikes, small beaches, or to watch the ships passing by.

Starting point : Krückau barrage
Destination : Brunsbüttel
Distance : 44km, 2 hours 30 minutes

5. Husum Bay: Perfect for beginners with dogs

This easy 20-kilometer tour starts at Husum harbor and leads along the North Sea coast via Schobüll to Hattstedt . Ideal for beginners and relaxed outings with your dog , the route follows well-maintained paths with gentle inclines. Along the way, inviting stops include the Schobüll viewpoint with its sweeping views across the Wadden Sea , the Schobüll Forest nature experience area , and the small Wadden Sea House . The Dockkoog near Husum also offers a lovely opportunity for a break right by the water. The trail combines a maritime atmosphere with a verdant coastal landscape – perfect for a short but varied getaway.

Starting point : Husum harbor
Destination : Hattstedt
Distance : 7 km, 25 min

6. Sylt Island Route: Cycling to the dog beaches

This idyllic 30-kilometer route on Sylt leads through expansive dune landscapes and past the impressive Red Cliff to List in the north of the island . Along the way, several dog-friendly beaches dot the west coast, perfect for short breaks, sniffing, playing, and cooling paws. The route is mostly flat and well-maintained, making it ideal for relaxed tours with small dogs and cyclists. With our comfortable and secure bicycle bag for dogs, your four-legged friends will always have a comfortable place to sit and can join you along for the ride.

Starting point : Red Cliff
Target : List
Distance : 10km, 30 min

7. Island route Föhr: With dog from Oevenum to Wyk

For a short, relaxed tour on Föhr, the route from the bird decoy in Oevenum to the dog beach in Wyk is ideal. The approximately 12-kilometer route leads along quiet paths through the expansive island landscape , past fields and small farmsteads . Along the way, you'll find beautiful views across the marshland and plenty of opportunities for short breaks. After about 35 minutes, you'll reach the dog beach in Wyk: perfect for a quick ride with your dog in your pannier and a refreshing dip in the sea.

Starting point : Vogelkoje in Oevenum
Destination : Dog beach in Wyk
Distance : 12km, 35 min.

8. From Cuxhaven to Ottendorf along the North Sea coast

This approximately 18-kilometer tour starts in the port of Cuxhaven and follows well- maintained bike paths directly along the sea to Otterndorf . You'll cycle mostly on the dike with expansive views across the Wadden Sea and traverse tranquil sections with salt marshes , small sluice villages , and grazing sheep . There are several opportunities for breaks along the way, such as at a dog beach or in a cozy café. In Otterndorf, a charming old town with a maritime flair and access to the Elbe estuary awaits you. An ideal route for a relaxing getaway with your dog.

Start : Harbor quay, Cuxhaven
Destination : Otterndorf, Cuxhaven
Distance : 18km, 1 hour

9. Elbe Cycle Route Stade to Krautsand

This approximately 20-kilometer tour starts in the historic old town of Stade and follows well-maintained paths towards the Elbe River . The route runs close to the water, offering views of small islands and passing ships . Numerous quiet sections along the dike invite you to take short breaks. Your destination is Krautsand beach , whose expansiveness and proximity to the water provide ideal conditions for relaxing moments with your dog. A varied route with a maritime atmosphere and plenty of opportunities to experience nature .

Starting point : Stade Old Town
Destination : Krautsand beach
Distance : 20km, 1 hour

10. Bike tour from Wybelsum to Knock: Along the sea dike with a dog

For a short tour along the dike, the route from the Wybelsum lighthouse to the natural beach at Knock is ideal. For approximately 11 kilometers, you'll cycle directly along the sea dike , enjoying expansive views across the Wadden Sea and the tranquil coastal landscape . The route is flat and easy to cycle on, perfect for a relaxed ride with your dog. After about 35 minutes, you'll reach the natural beach : a peaceful spot for a break by the water and a breath of fresh North Sea air .

Starting point : Lighthouse in Wybelsum
Destination : Natural beach at Knock
Distance : 11km, 35 min.

Pre-start checklist

• Leopold's Finest bicycle bag
• A well-fitting dog harness (not a collar)
• Roadworthy bicycle and bicycle helmet
  
• Water bottle and bowl for the dog
• treats
  
• dog towel
• Leash or long line
• Toys for entertainment
• Outdoor mat

FAQs

Can I safely ride a bicycle with a small dog?

Yes, with the right equipment and preparation, cycling with a small dog is perfectly safe. It's important that your dog is in a specially designed bicycle bag. Your dog should be transported in a carrier that is securely fastened and has an integrated safety strap. Furthermore, your dog should always wear a well-fitting harness to which he is attached with a safety leash. A collar alone is not sufficient. Ensure that your dog is comfortable, secure, and unable to jump out of the carrier. With regular training and calm driving, nothing stands in the way of enjoyable outings together.

How do I attach the Leopold's Finest dog basket to my bicycle?

The Leopold's Finest bicycle bag can be attached to a standard bicycle basket in just a few simple steps. Thanks to the sturdy fastening strap, the bag sits securely and won't slip, even on bumpy roads. It attaches directly to the bicycle basket, ensuring your dog remains stable and protected at all times. After your ride, the bag can be easily removed and used as a portable dog carrier, for example, in a café, restaurant, or on a train. You'll find illustrated assembly instructions for easy attachment of the bicycle bag on our website.

Are there many dog-friendly beaches on the North Sea coast?

Yes, you'll find numerous dog beaches along the German North Sea coast, specifically designated for visitors with four-legged friends. From St. Peter-Ording and Cuxhaven to the East Frisian Islands, there are many places where your dog can run, dig, and swim freely. The beaches are generally equipped with dog toilets, trash cans, and leash requirements. Dog parks located near the beaches are also particularly popular. Be sure to check leash laws and seasonal regulations beforehand, as these can vary depending on the location.

How long can a small dog ride in a bicycle basket?

A small dog can generally ride in a bicycle basket for as long as it seems comfortable, provided there are regular breaks. A good rule of thumb is to take a short break every 30 to 60 minutes so your dog can stretch its legs, relieve itself, and drink water. Observe your dog carefully. If it becomes restless, pants heavily, or seems stressed, the ride should be interrupted or ended. It is particularly advisable to gradually increase the distance traveled, especially with inexperienced dogs.

What do I need to be aware of when cycling with a dog on hot days?

Heat can quickly become dangerous for dogs, especially during physical exertion or direct sunlight. Therefore, try to cycle only in the cooler morning or evening hours. Ensure sufficient shade inside the pannier, for example, with the integrated sunshade or roller blinds. Always provide fresh water and avoid paved paths in direct sunlight, as they can heat up considerably. Observe your dog closely. Signs of overheating include heavy panting, lethargy, or coordination problems. Leopold's pannier, with its flexible canopy system, offers ideal sun and heat protection, allowing your dog to travel comfortably even in warmer temperatures.