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German Unity Cycle Route Bonn
The German Unity Cycle Route connects the former federal capital of Bonn with the current seat of government, Berlin – on over 1,100 kilometers full of history, nature and digital innovation. Less than 15 kilometers north of the starting point in Bonn is Oberwinter: an ideal stopover or stage destination for cyclists who want to stay overnight in comfort and enjoy the romantic Rhine at the same time. This guide shows you why a detour to Oberwinter is worthwhile and how to plan your stage perfectly.
From the Federal Palace to Berlin – route, numbers & curiosities
The German Unity Cycle Route leads through seven federal states, passes over 100 historic sites and follows large sections of the former inner-German border. The route consists of 20 stages – including the first from Bonn to Koblenz (approx. 92 km), of which around 35 km run along the Middle Rhine near Oberwinter. Since its launch in 2017, the route has developed into a showcase model thanks to digital infrastructure such as cycle facilities with Wi-Fi, touchscreens and e-charging stations. In 2025, it will receive an additional boost from the nationwide #EinheitsTour campaign.
Stage 1: Bonn – Oberwinter – Koblenz
The start is at Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer, directly in front of the former Bundestag. The flat first few kilometers lead south via Bad Godesberg. After around 20 km you reach Oberwinter – with its half-timbered flair, marina and spectacular views of the Rhine. From here, the route continues via Remagen (including the famous Remagen bridge) to the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress in Koblenz, where the Rhine and Moselle meet. A particularly beautiful detour is the view from the Erpeler Ley – 136 m above the Rhine.
Why Oberwinter is the perfect stopover
Oberwinter offers everything that cyclists appreciate: a quiet location, flexible arrival, comfortable accommodation with a secure bike garage and practical self-check-in. Whether for an overnight stay, a day’s break or as a starting point for the second stage – you are flexible on the road from here. Several regional cycle routes intersect here: Rhine Cycle Route, Red Wine Trail and the new Ahr Cycle Route 2025. It’s only 15 minutes by train to Bonn and 25 minutes to Koblenz – ideal if the weather changes or you have a breakdown.
Digital on the move: app, GPS & service stations
The free app for the German Unity Cycle Route provides offline navigation, elevation profiles and augmented reality functions. It also shows all digital cycle sites where you can charge, surf and call up information. GPX tracks are available on the official project page. Special feature: Since 2024, every cycle site has had a mini-library with cycling literature – a real highlight!
Tips for your 2025 planning
– Book early: Demand is high, overnight stays increased by 28% in 2024
– Note events: “Rhine in Flames” often fills the region months in advance.
– 45% of cyclists travel by e-bike – allow for charging times.
– Deutschlandticket: Bicycles are permitted on regional services (outside of peak times).
– Take along: Powerbank, multitool, helmet, rain jacket – the weather on the Middle Rhine changes quickly.
Historical highlights along the route
Each stage tells a piece of German history: the Remagen Bridge stands symbolically for the end of the war, the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress for Prussian power. Further east, the route passes Oranienburg Castle, the Sachsenhausen Memorial and the Green Belt – a 1,400 km long biotope strip along the former border. In this way, the cycle route not only connects places, but also history, nature and the present to create a unique experience.
Facts, figures & the #EinheitsTour 2025
The idea for the cycle route was born at the Cycling Congress in 2014 and was implemented from 2017. The route now counts over 140,000 overnight stays every year. In 2025, the #EinheitsTour will bring new impetus: with a stamp pass, roadshows and limited edition recycled jerseys for frequent cyclists. And did you know? The longest tunnel on the route measures 385 m near Kassel, in Brandenburg the route runs 22 km over a former airfield – straight ahead!
Conclusion: Cycling between the view of the Rhine and the Reichstag dome
The German Unity Cycle Route offers a successful combination of sport, culture and digital infrastructure. Start in Bonn and enjoy the first stage with a relaxing stopover in Oberwinter – our apartment offers the ideal base for your tour. Book now and secure your 2025 cycling adventure!
