Cycling routes along the Baltic Sea in Germany
Want to cycle with your dog along the Baltic Sea coast? With the right bike bag for small dogs, your ride together will be a safe and relaxing experience. In this article, we'll show you not only the most beautiful and dog-friendly cycling routes along the Baltic coast, but also what you should consider when transporting your dog on your bike.
1. From Flensburg to Holnis: Coastal tour with dog and panoramic views as far as Denmark
A particularly beautiful section begins at Flensburg harbor and runs directly along the Baltic Sea coast to the northern tip of the Holnis peninsula. Along the way, you'll pass several beaches that are perfect for breaks with your dog. Lighthouses and the Holnis Nature Park are also located along the route. From the northern tip, you'll enjoy a sweeping view across the Baltic coast all the way to Denmark. The tour continues along bathing beaches and ends at the dog beach at LA Strand.
Starting point: Port of Flensburg
Destination: Dog beach in LA (Baltic Sea beach)
Distance: 30km, 2 hours
2. From Damp to Eckernförde on the Baltic Sea
A varied section of the trail begins at Damp beach and leads you along the Baltic Sea coast with its many beautiful stretches of sand. The route also winds through green areas and along impressive cliffs. In Borby and Eckernförde, a stroll through the town center is highly recommended. The tour concludes at a relaxing end on Eckernförde beach, offering plenty of opportunities for swimming breaks with your dog along the way.
Starting point: Damp beach
Destination: Eckernförde beach
Distance: 28km, 2 hours
3. From Warnemünde to Graal-Müritz
The 16km route from Warnemünde to Graal-Müritz leads through the Hüttelmoor nature reserve and the Rostock Heath. This dog-friendly route is perfect for nature lovers, as it offers numerous swimming opportunities for your dog.
Starting point: Markgrafenheide cycle path, Warnemünder Straße
Destination: Graal-Müritz pier
Distance: 16km, 1 hour 15 minutes
4. Usedom: Peenemünde Historical Trail
The historic route from Peenemünde to the German-Polish border on Usedom is a relaxing tour. The 45 km route leads through picturesque natural landscapes and offers ideal conditions for cycling with a dog, as it is quiet and dog-friendly. The route crosses the island, passing lakes through beautiful scenery, and at the end, the border with Poland awaits as a small highlight of the tour.
Starting point: Peenemünde North Harbor
Destination: German-Polish border
Distance: 45km, 2 hours 45 minutes
5. Rügen: Along the coast from Sellin to Klein Zicker
Your bike tour starts at the impressive Sellin pier and initially follows a peaceful route along Lake Sellinger. The path then leads you directly along the Baltic coast, offering magnificent views and fresh sea air. After a short stretch through the lively town of Göhren, you'll cycle past the museum ship before continuing along several stretches of beach. The tour concludes at the striking cliffs of Klein Zicker. This route on the island of Rügen offers numerous opportunities for relaxing breaks with your dog and combines nature with a maritime atmosphere.
Starting point: Sellin pier
Destination: Klein Zicker cliff viewpoint
Distance: 18km, 1 hour
6. Kiel: Along the fjord
Your tour begins at the lighthouse in Mönkeberg and takes you directly along the Kiel Fjord. You'll cycle leisurely through Heikendorf to the Little Mermaid in Möltenort, an idyllic rest stop right on the water. The route continues through the harbor of Laboe with its maritime flair. At the Naval Memorial, you can enjoy the expansive view across the Baltic Sea. The route ends at Laboe beach, which is perfect for a relaxing break with your dog.
Starting point: Lighthouse in Mönkeberg
Destination: Naval Memorial in Laboe
Distance: 10km, 30 min.
7. Coastal bike tour from Travemünde to Scharbeutz
Your tour begins on the beach in Travemünde and takes you along the promenade with views of the Baltic Sea. The route passes several beaches and offers beautiful views of nature and public art along the way, including impressive sculptures. The tour continues along the cliffs at Niendorf Beach and through the lively center of Timmendorfer Strand. Following Timmendorfer Strand, the route finally ends in Scharbeutz, right on the beach. A varied route with plenty of opportunities for breaks with your dog.
Starting point: Travemünde beach
Destination: Scharbeutz Pier
Distance: 21 km, 1 hour 20 minutes
8. Dassow Dog Beach
Your tour begins at the pier in Boltenhagen and leads you along impressive cliffs overlooking the Baltic Sea. The route winds through tranquil coastal areas, offering beautiful sea views along the way. The destination is the dog beach in Dassow, perfect for a relaxing break with your dog. A peaceful tour through nature and coastal scenery.
Starting point: Boltenhagen pier
Destination: Dassow dog beach
Distance: 22.5 km, 1 hour 30 minutes
9. Fehmarn: From Heiligenhafen to Burg
Your tour starts in Heiligenhafen and takes you across the impressive Fehmarnsund Bridge, offering sweeping views of the Baltic Sea. From there, you'll cycle through tranquil villages and the expansive landscapes typical of the island. The route ends in Burg auf Fehmarn, the island's main town, where a leisurely stroll through the town is highly recommended. A relaxed tour with plenty of opportunities for breaks with your dog.
Starting point: Heiligenhafen
Destination: Castle on Fehmarn
Distance: 21.5km, 1 hour 15 minutes
10. Olpenitz - Maasholm
The tour from Olpenitz to Maasholm follows the Schlei fjord and offers a tranquil, idyllic landscape. The route is ideal for a relaxed bike ride with a dog, as it is well-maintained and lightly trafficked. There are plenty of opportunities for breaks and exploring the surroundings along the way. With its abundance of nature and dog-friendly paths, this route is particularly pleasant for dog owners who want to experience the peaceful side of the Baltic Sea coast.
Starting point: Olpenitz harbor
Destination: Maasholm fishing port
Distance: 15km, 1 hour
Pre-start checklist
• Leopold's bicycle bag
• 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 Baltic Sea coast?
Yes, there are numerous dog beaches along the German Baltic coast, specifically designed for holidays with four-legged friends. From Lübeck-Travemünde to Timmendorfer Strand and on to Usedom, you'll find many stretches where dogs are warmly welcomed and can roam freely, swim, and roll in the sand. Many of these beaches have dog toilets, waste bins, and clear signs regarding leash requirements. Dog parks or walking paths are often located nearby. Please check local regulations in advance, as leash requirements and access times can vary depending on the location and season.
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 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 in the pannier, for example with a sunshade or 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.
