4.4
(13)
111
riders
Schwedenstein and Westlausitz Loop
05:11
65.7km
620m
Gravel riding
Tackle the difficult Through the gravel paradise to Schwedenstein route, a 40.8-mile gravel biking challenge with 2050 feet of elevation gai
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
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8.94 km
Sweden Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
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42.1 km
Small Quarry Lake
Highlight • Lake
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49.2 km
Schwedenstein Tower and Restaurant
Highlight • Monument
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54.7 km
Apfelallee Pulsnitz
Highlight • Trail
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56.3 km
Forest Path Near Pulsnitz
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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65.7 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
39.9 km
14.7 km
7.89 km
2.24 km
789 m
175 m
Surfaces
22.3 km
21.0 km
15.8 km
4.61 km
1.69 km
284 m
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Elevation
Highest point (400 m)
Lowest point (210 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Wednesday 20 May
19°C
12°C
51 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is the "Through the gravel paradise to Schwedenstein" route?
This route is classified as a "hard gravel ride" by komoot. It requires a very good fitness level, and some sections might even necessitate pushing your bike due to challenging terrain. It's best suited for experienced gravel bikers.
What kind of terrain can I expect on this gravel ride?
The trail features a mix of unpaved roads, paths, and cycleways, with significant portions being unpaved or compacted gravel. You might encounter segments with larger pebbles or distinct tire marks, especially after rain, which can be tough to navigate. The varied terrain is part of what makes it a "gravel paradise" experience.
What are the main points of interest along the route?
The route passes by several notable features. You'll encounter the Sweden Bridge and the picturesque Small Quarry Lake. A key highlight is the Schwedenstein Tower and Restaurant, offering a great stop. You'll also ride through scenic sections like Apfelallee Pulsnitz and a Forest Path Near Pulsnitz.
When is the best time of year to ride this trail?
While specific details aren't provided, gravel routes in this region are often praised for their picturesque landscapes, including magical autumn scenery. Given the challenging gravel terrain, drier seasons like late spring, summer, and early autumn would likely offer the best riding conditions, avoiding muddy sections after heavy rain.
Is the route dog-friendly?
The provided information does not specify if dogs are allowed or if there are leash rules. It's always best to check local regulations for the specific areas the trail passes through, especially nature reserves, before bringing your dog.
Do I need any permits or pay entrance fees to ride this trail?
There is no information indicating that permits or entrance fees are required for cycling this route. However, it's always a good practice to be aware of any local signage or regulations, especially if passing through protected areas.
Where can I park to access the trail?
The data does not specify official parking areas for this particular route. However, for routes in the Schwedenstein area, searching for parking near the start point or in nearby towns like Pulsnitz would be a good starting point. Look for public parking lots or designated trailheads.
Does the route connect with other trails?
Yes, the route intersects with several other official trails. Notably, it covers significant sections of the Westlausitz-Rundweg (26%) and the Naturerlebnisroute (23%). It also briefly touches upon the Erlebnisregion Dresden Route 2 (15%) and the Produktroute (15%).
What kind of bike is best suited for this route?
Given that it's a "hard gravel ride" through varied terrain, a robust gravel bike with appropriate tires for mixed surfaces (including larger pebbles and potentially soft sections) would be ideal. An easy mountain bike (mtb_easy) is also suitable, as indicated by the tour's sport classification.
Are there any places to eat or stay near the trail?
The Schwedenstein Tower and Restaurant is a direct option along the route for refreshments. For more options, nearby towns like Pulsnitz would likely offer cafes, pubs, and accommodation, as is common for popular cycling regions in Germany.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
Endless gravel strokes and amazing views from the varies hills. Truely a paradise to bike! https://www.komoot.com/smarttour/e1651138920?ref=itd
What a fantastic sun it was today! 🤩 Just to be on the safe side, I applied sunscreen and then headed out into nature. The @Kolibri Cycling loop was only intended for after work in April, but since I set off earlier, it was actually light the entire way. First, I headed up into the heath and then along the rustic Fensterchen path towards the north. Then I was able to take off my jacket for a while. It was too warm for that in the afternoon. At the end of the Loschwitzer Weg, a couple was just looking for their bearings and wanted to go to the Fischhaus. I briefly told them where they were. Then we continued on. Later, on the double E, Rennsteig, A, Försterhain, and then onto the Bischofsweg. At the top of the old windmill, I had to stop. The view into the distance was gigantic today. I could hardly believe it, but both Ungerberg and Valtenberg seemed incredibly close. They were so clearly visible. The West Lusatian Mountains were also clearly visible. And they were, in fact, the goal today. After Arnsdorf, over the Tanneberg, we went through the Massanei. There was still some frost/ice in places, and it was quite chilly. But I never got cold today. Because where it was still frosty, the paths were also so wet that my tires practically stuck to the ground. I had to pedal hard for the many kilometers. The route continued over various roads and grassy, muddy field paths, once over the highway, and then along the Hochstein peak range. Now I was practically at the West Lusatian Mountains. A short detour to the Luchsenburg forester's lodge—without a stop—marked the halfway point. After that, it was practically a straight shot over to the Schwedenstein. The descent over the small Katzenköpfe was really fun today. I've never had such loose wrists before 😂. The subsequent Kirchstein section over to Pulsnitz was again difficult to ride due to the thin layer of slippery ground. I quickly crossed Pulsnitz in the rush hour traffic and out over the railway tracks into Niederforst. There, it was relaxed again, but gradually got noticeably cooler. The straight paths were easy to ride, and I made good progress. I still had some juice in my battery 😉🦵🔋. In Bäumigt near Feldschlösschen, the route led over the Grenzweg (border path). I hadn't heard of it before. I usually always go straight through there. But it was truly fantastic, and today, bathed in glorious light from the low sun. 🥰 With a wide arc to the Große Röder, I bypassed Radeberg and landed directly back on the heath. The route was fairly straight to Hofewiese and then back towards the city. The Kannenhenkel is actually perfect for gravel riding thanks to the large amount of gravel, but in reality, it's just a nightmare. It's just not fun to hop over it right now. The smooth 19th made up for it with a few speed sections before we headed to the Saloppe at Tiergarten and then home to the ERW. A truly great ride, and I'm glad I chose such a longer ride for the afternoon. This shows potential for the season 💪