Cycling day trip from Dresden to Altenberg

This ride from Dresden to Altenberg is an awesome challenge for any cyclist looking to combine city sights with the beauty of the Saxon countryside. You'll roll out from Dresden, known for its grand architecture along the Elbe and lively café scene. The route is about 50 km and gains some serious altitude – over 1,100 meters!

For most of the ride, you'll be on paved or asphalt surfaces (about 75%), but expect a decent chunk of gravel, ground, and the occasional cobblestone to mix things up, especially as you leave the city and head into the quieter forested tracks and countryside roads.

The climb ramps up as you approach Altenberg, a charming little mountain town in the Ore Mountains (Erzgebirge) and a popular base for hiking and winter sports. By the time you roll into Altenberg—sitting at nearly 780 meters above sea level—you’ll have earned those views!

Pack your climbing legs and maybe a pastry in Dresden before you set off; this route is perfect for escaping the city crowds and finishing off with a deep breath of fresh mountain air.