Great Western Harz Tour

While designated as a racebike tour, the Harz region is known for varied terrain. You should be prepared for sections that may include unpaved surfaces, potholes, and cobblestones. Some parts might be more suitable for a gravel or mountain bike, and some cyclists have described certain segments as 'hell for the road bike'. Careful route planning is essential if you're strictly seeking smooth, paved surfaces.

This tour is rated as 'difficult' and features significant elevation changes with tough climbs and winding descents. It requires a very good level of fitness. Some segments might even necessitate dismounting and pushing your bike.

The Harz Mountains are beautiful year-round, but for cycling, late spring through early autumn (May to October) generally offers the most favorable weather conditions. Always check the local weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change rapidly in mountainous regions.

The route offers picturesque landscapes and serene nature. Key highlights include the Descent to Braunlage through Oberharz Nature Reserve, the scenic Harzhochstraße: Braunlage – Petersilienwasser, and the challenging yet rewarding Curvy Descent and Ascent in Siebertal. You'll also pass through long forested sections with views of lakes like the Okerstausee and Granetalsperre.

The tour is a loop, so you can start at various points. Popular starting locations often include towns like Goslar or Braunlage, which offer public parking facilities. We recommend checking local parking options in your chosen starting town beforehand.

Yes, the route intersects with several other paths. Notably, it covers significant portions of the Radroutennetz Goslar (33%), Weser-Harz-Heide-Radfernweg (14%), and the Harzrundweg (12%). You'll also find shorter sections overlapping with paths like the Südharzeisenbahn-Radweg and the European long distance path E6, Germany, Lower Saxony.

Generally, dogs are allowed on trails in the Harz region, including within the Harz National Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please ensure your dog is fit enough for the long distance and challenging terrain, and always carry enough water for them.

No, there are no general entrance fees or permits required to access the Harz National Park for recreational activities like cycling. However, please respect all park regulations, especially regarding staying on marked paths and protecting the natural environment.

Yes, several towns in the Harz region, including potential starting points for this tour, are accessible by public transport. Regional buses and trains connect many of the larger towns. Check local public transport schedules and bike carriage policies for the most up-to-date information.

The Harz region has numerous towns and villages along the route where you can find cafes, restaurants, and shops to refuel. However, given the length of the tour, it's always wise to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially for longer stretches between settlements.

Given the tour's difficulty and varied terrain, you should bring a well-maintained bike (ideally a gravel bike or a robust road bike with wider tires), a helmet, appropriate cycling attire, plenty of water, energy snacks, a repair kit, a first-aid kit, and a fully charged phone with the route downloaded. Layers of clothing are recommended due to potential weather changes.