Cycling map of Upper Lusatia (RK-SAX03)

This cycling map covers a large part of Upper Lusatia, a region that belongs approximately 67% to Saxony, 30% to Poland, and 3% to Brandenburg. In Saxony, Upper Lusatia roughly includes the districts of Görlitz and Bautzen.

In the northeast of Saxony lies the picturesque Upper Lusatian heath and pond landscape, which is designated as a biosphere reserve for one-fifth of its area. This is the home of the Sorbs, a national minority who have lived in Lusatia since the 4th century as descendants of the Milzener. Their language and culture remain vibrant to this day, and you will encounter them in various ways during your cycling tour. The landscape is characterized by numerous pond areas that were established in the 13th and 14th centuries by noble landowners in marshy lowlands and depressions. Since then, pond farming has become one of the most important sources of income in Upper Lusatia.

Another defining landscape of Upper Lusatia is the Lusatian Highlands, a hilly mid-mountain region that accompanies the upper course of the Spree River south of Bautzen. Here, you should expect some inclines, but you will also be rewarded with beautiful views of the landscape. The area around Kottmarwald is hilly and forested, with the characteristic slate-clad half-timbered houses gracefully adorning the sleepy villages.

In the southwestern part of the map, a section of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains is included.

There is much to experience both scenically and culturally: along the Spree, the Upper Lusatian Highlands with the three sources of the Spree, the distinctive half-timbered houses, and the historic town of Bautzen, as well as the expansive Spree reservoirs with their long, white sandy beaches north of the old capital of Upper Lusatia. At the German-Polish border, Zittau and Görlitz delight every old town lover. Other interesting towns include Bischofswerda, the "Gateway to Upper Lusatia," founded by the Herrnhut Brethren.