The Ostseeküsten-Radweg brings together Germany’s Baltic bays, historic ports and seaside resorts in one coastal journey. Germany’s national tourist board describes the route from Flensburg to Ahlbeck on Usedom; regional guides provide more detailed information for Schleswig-Holstein and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.
From Flensburg towards Lübeck Bay
Ostsee Schleswig-Holstein presents Flensburg as the beginning of its regional itinerary. Its suggested stages lead through Glücksburg, Gelting and Kappeln to Eckernförde, where the old town and harbour make a natural place to pause. The route continues towards Kiel and the bays farther east.
Around Kiel, the regional guide highlights the artists’ museum in Heikendorf, the submarine in Laboe and Kiel harbour. The itinerary also includes a circuit of Fehmarn, passing the island’s sea-life centre and a waterbird reserve, before returning to the mainland and continuing towards Grömitz and Travemünde. The sailing ship Passat is a landmark to look for at Travemünde.
Hanseatic towns, peninsulas and islands
From Lübeck-Travemünde, the Mecklenburg-Vorpommern route guide describes a journey through the rolling Klützer Winkel to Wismar. It continues towards Kühlungsborn, Heiligendamm and Warnemünde, with coastal views and inland stretches along the way. Wismar and Stralsund are among the historic Hanseatic towns highlighted by the guide.
Beyond the Rostock Heath, Wustrow and Ahrenshoop introduce the Fischland-Darß-Zingst peninsula. The route then reaches Stralsund and Rügen, where the regional guide describes a circuit taking in Cape Arkona, the Königsstuhl area and the seaside architecture of Binz, Sellin and Göhren.
After Greifswald, the itinerary approaches Usedom through Wolgast. Seaside promenades and resort architecture accompany the final part of the regional guide’s journey to Ahlbeck.
Surface and character
The riding changes between regions. Ostsee Schleswig-Holstein describes its section as partly hilly, using mainly independent or roadside cycle paths and quieter side roads. Most of that regional section is paved, with some short sandy or unsealed stretches; changing winds and smaller climbs are also part of the journey.
In Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Radfahrland describes quiet country roads, paved and compacted cycle paths, and forest and field tracks, as well as occasional concrete slabs and cobbles. Its guide suggests a touring bike or mountain bike and considers a road bike less suitable. These descriptions apply to their respective regional sections rather than guaranteeing conditions throughout the route.
Planning a coastal trip
The Schleswig-Holstein tourism guide sets out individual stages between Flensburg and Travemünde, so riders can use its town-to-town suggestions to choose a shorter trip or organise a longer one. It describes the route as rideable in both directions and recommends reserving accommodation ahead during the main season.
Allow time to check local information before setting out. Ostsee Schleswig-Holstein reports that the October 2023 storm surge damaged parts of the coast and lists restrictions and diversions around Fehmarn, Travemünde and Kellenhusen. It advises contacting the relevant local tourist information office for specific diversion details.