D-Route 5 (Germany)

D-Route 5 is part of Germany’s national long‑distance cycling network. It strings together signed cycle paths, quiet back roads, and the odd gravel stretch, rolling through a mix of towns and open countryside. Ride the whole thing as a tour or pick off weekend sections—regional trains make it easy to hop on and off.

Navigation is straightforward: follow the D5 waymarks and double‑check with the map. Surfaces change by region, so 32–40 mm tires keep things comfy. You’ll usually hit services every 20–40 km—bakeries, guesthouses, water, and bike shops in bigger towns.

Go either direction and break it into stages that fit your pace. Spring to autumn is the sweet spot. Keep an eye out for local detours or construction, especially near cities. Family riders will like the flatter stretches close to towns, while tourers can lean into the longer rural legs. Pack lights for underpasses, bring a lock, and enjoy the café stops and small‑town vibes along the way.