The bicycle – invented in Baden-Württemberg

Baden-Württemberg is the land of inventors, tinkerers and thinkers. And especially in terms of mobility, we’re laps ahead of the pack. The car originated here and the bicycle was invented in southwest Germany: on 12 June 1817, Karl Drais took a dandy horse (draisine) for a spin through Mannheim for the first time. It is regarded as the forerunner of the bicycle.

From one to several days’ cycling tours – Baden-Württemberg’s network of cycle paths is as varied as the scenery and sights along the way. Thanks to the extensive and well-maintained cycle path network you can easily put together any tour of your choice. Cycle tours range from easy to very challenging so there is something for every cyclist and their preferences.

Cycle paths around Stuttgart’s vineyards

Many attractive long-distance cycle routes run through Baden-Württemberg across the Swabian Alb, through the Black Forest or along the Rhine. The cycle paths in Baden-Württemberg along the shores of Lake Constance, the South Black Forest cycle route or the Danube cycle route are among the most famous in Germany. The southern cycle routes offer many (hitherto) less familiar areas – like through the Odenwald, for instance. Baden-Württemberg offers many Bed+Bike arrangements for cycle tours lasting several days. The accommodation, which is specially designed for the needs of the cyclists, is located all over the region, so that individual tours can be planned throughout Baden-Württemberg.

“The electric bike has prompted a renaissance in cycling and will change urban mobility in the long term.”

Marc Oliver Schwarz
restorer of historical bicycles, Da Corsa Stuttgart

The landscape in the south is hilly with many uphill cycle routes. Cyclists keen to explore these landscapes in Baden-Württemberg in a relaxed fashion are recommended to opt for an electric bike tour. Electric bikes can be hired at many stations, so there is nothing to stand in the way of a Black Forest mountain or Swabian Alb tour.