Cycling map of Upper Lusatia (RK-SAX03)

This cycle map covers a large part of Upper Lusatia, a region that is approximately 67% Saxony, 30% Poland and 3% Brandenburg. In Saxony, Upper Lusatia roughly comprises the districts of Görlitz and Bautzen.
In the north-east of Saxony lies the charming Upper Lusatian heath and pond landscape, one fifth of which has been designated a biosphere reserve. This is the home of the Sorbs, the national minority who have lived in Lusatia since the 4th century as descendants of the Milzen people. Their language and culture are still alive today and you will encounter them again and again in many different ways on a cycle tour. The landscape is characterised by the numerous pond areas, which were created in the 13th/14th century by aristocratic landlords in marshy lowlands and hollows. Since then, pond farming has been one of the most important economic activities in Upper Lusatia.
Another characteristic landscape of Upper Lusatia is the Lusatian uplands, a hilly low mountain range that accompanies the upper reaches of the Spree as far south as Bautzen. You can expect the odd climb here, but you will also be rewarded with beautiful views of the landscape. The area around the Kottmarwald is mountainous and wooded, and the sleepy villages are gracefully adorned with characteristic slate-clad half-timbered houses.
Part of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains are included in the south-western part of the map.

There is plenty to experience in terms of landscape and culture: along the River Spree, the Upper Lusatian highlands with the three Spree springs, the striking half-timbered houses and the historic town of Bautzen, as well as the extensive Spree dams with their long, white sandy beaches to the north of the old capital of Upper Lusatia. On the German-Polish border, Zittau and Görlitz will delight every lover of old towns. Other interesting towns include Bischofswerda, the "gateway to Upper Lusatia", which was founded by the Brethren of Herrnhut.