Lush vineyards, gentle river valleys and medieval towns – this weekend bike Tour takes you into the heart of the Saale-Unstrut castle and wine country in Germany. In 65 kilometres (40 mi), you’ll explore inviting landscapes and cultural highlights such as the medieval cathedral in Naumburg. With an overnight stay at a campsite, the daily stages are suitable for beginners and leisure cyclists.

It’s worth exploring the wonderfully restored town of Weißenfels, where your adventure begins, before hitting the cycle path. Once you've finished exploring the quaint alleys, pedal off on the Saale cycle path, following the water’s edge towards Schönburg. The Saale river is surrounded by green meadows around Weißenfels and the path leads through forests that provide shade during the summer. The first stage ends in Naumburg, a city steeped in history with a famous cathedral: the medieval woodwork has a unique character.

Well-rested after a night at a well-equipped, quiet campsite north of Naumburg, you switch from the Saale to the Unstrut cycle path. On this stage, you’ll discover the Saale-Unstrut wine region and taste the produce of numerous winegrowers. At the halfway point, a rest area at the Glockens Eck rock formation is an idyllic break spot. Here, you can unpack your picnic and watch the sleepy dragonflies on the shore.

Locals swim in both the Saale and the Unstrut and you’ll come across lots of spots for a dip. Pack your swimsuit or do as locals do and jump in naked. Nudism was completely normal in East Germany during the GDR era and remains so to this day. However you choose to swim, pay attention to the current.

Since this is an overnight trip, pack a tent, mat and sleeping bag in your panniers. Although you’ll pass restaurants, bring sufficient water with you. The start and end points are easily accessible by regional train. The campsite is quite popular, so make sure you book in advance. Have fun!