Cycling routes along the Baltic Sea in Germany
Are you planning a bike ride with your dog along the Baltic Sea? With the right bike bag for small dogs, your bike ride will be a safe and relaxing experience. In this article, we'll show you not only the most beautiful and dog-friendly bike routes along the Baltic Sea coast, but also what to keep in mind when transporting your dog on your bike.
1. From Flensburg to Holnis: Coastal tour with dog and panoramic views to Denmark
A particularly beautiful section begins at Flensburg Harbor and runs directly along the Baltic Sea to the northern tip of the Holnis peninsula. Along the way, you'll pass several beaches perfect for a break with your dog. Lighthouses and the Holnis Nature Park are also on the route. From the northern tip, you'll enjoy sweeping views across the Baltic coast all the way to Denmark. The tour continues along 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 begins at Damp Beach and takes you along the Baltic Sea with many beautiful stretches of beach. In between, the route runs through green areas and along impressive cliffs. In Borby and Eckernförde, it's worth taking a break for a stroll through the town center. The tour ends 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 dogs, as it is quiet and dog-friendly. It crosses the island past lakes and through beautiful countryside, and at the end, the border with Poland awaits as a small highlight of the tour.
Starting point: Peenemünde North Harbour
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 runs peacefully along Lake Selling. The route then leads you directly along the Baltic Sea coast, offering magnificent views and fresh sea air. After a short section through lively 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. The route on the island of Rügen offers numerous opportunities for relaxing stops with your dog and combines nature experiences with a maritime flair.
Starting point: Sellin pier
Destination: Cliff viewpoint Klein Zicker
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 tour continues through the harbor of Laboe with its maritime flair. At the Naval Memorial, you'll enjoy sweeping views over the Baltic Sea. The route ends at Laboe Beach, making it the perfect place 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 at Travemünde Beach and takes you along the beach promenade with views of the Baltic Sea. The route runs along several beaches, offering beautiful views of nature and public art along the way, including impressive sculptures along the way. It continues along the cliffs at Niendorf Beach through the lively center of Timmendorf. The route follows Timmendorf Beach and 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. Dog Beach Dassow
Your tour begins at the pier in Boltenhagen and takes you along impressive cliffs overlooking the Baltic Sea. The route runs through quiet coastal areas, offering beautiful views of the sea along the way. The destination is the dog beach in Dassow, ideal 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 over the impressive Fehmarnsund Bridge, offering sweeping views of the Baltic Sea. From there, you'll cycle through quiet villages and expansive landscapes typical of the island. The route ends in the island's capital, Burg auf Fehmarn, where you can take a leisurely stroll through the town. This is a relaxing tour with plenty of opportunities for stops 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 runs along the Schlei canal and offers a peaceful, idyllic landscape. The route is ideal for a relaxing bike ride with your dog, as it is well-maintained and quiet. Along the way, there are many opportunities for breaks and exploring the surrounding area. With plenty of nature and dog-friendly paths, this route is especially pleasant for dog owners who want to experience the quiet side of the Baltic Sea.
Starting point: Olpenitz harbor
Destination: Maasholm fishing port
Distance: 15km, 1 hour
Checklist before starting
• Leopold's bicycle bag
• Well-fitting dog harness (no collar)
• Roadworthy bicycle and bicycle helmet
• Drinking bottle and bowl for the dog
• Treats
• Dog towel
• Leash or towline
• Toys for entertainment
• Outdoor mat
FAQs
Can I safely ride a bike with a small dog?
Yes, with the right equipment and preparation, cycling with a small dog is absolutely safe. It is important that your dog is carried in a specially designed bicycle bag. It is transported in a basket that is securely fastened and has an integrated safety belt. Your dog should also always wear a well-fitting harness, secured with a safety leash. A collar is not sufficient. Make sure your dog feels comfortable in the basket, is protected, and cannot jump out. With regular training and a calm driving style, there's nothing to stop you from enjoying a trip together.
How do I attach the Leopold's Finest dog basket to my bike?
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. This keeps your dog stable and protected at all times. After the ride, the bag can be easily removed and used as a portable dog carrier, for example, in a café, restaurant, or on the train. You'll find illustrated installation instructions on our website for easy attachment of the bicycle bag.
Are there many dog beaches on the Baltic Sea?
Yes, there are numerous dog beaches along the German Baltic coast that have been specially designed for vacations with four-legged friends. From Lübeck-Travemünde to Timmendorfer Strand and Usedom, you'll find many areas where dogs are welcome to roam freely, swim, and roll in the sand. Many of these beaches have dog restrooms, litter bins, and clear signs indicating that dogs must be kept on a leash. There are often dog parks or walking paths nearby. Please check local regulations in advance, as leash requirements and access times may 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 the bike basket for as long as it feels comfortable, provided there are regular breaks. As a rule of thumb, take a short break every 30 to 60 minutes to allow your dog to move around, relieve itself, and drink water. Watch your dog closely. If it becomes restless, panting heavily, or appears stressed, the ride should be interrupted or ended. It's especially recommended to increase the distance gradually, especially for inexperienced dogs.
What should I keep in mind when cycling with a dog on hot days?
Heat can quickly become dangerous for dogs, especially during physical exertion or in direct sunlight. Therefore, try to only ride in the cooler morning or evening hours. Provide sufficient shade in your bike bag, such as with a canopy or blinds. Provide fresh water at all times and avoid paved paths in the blazing sun, as they can heat up considerably. Watch your dog closely. Signs of overheating include heavy panting, lethargy, or coordination problems. The Leopold's bike bag , with its flexible canopy system, offers ideal sun and heat protection, so your dog can travel comfortably even in warmer temperatures.
