The Ochsenweg (Ox Road) combines history and nature experiences in Germany's far north. This historic land route, also known as the Heerweg or Hærvejen in Danish, served as a central connection between Denmark and northern Germany in the 19th century. Farmers drove their cattle along this route, while knights, soldiers, merchants, pilgrims and travellers used the direct path southward. Today, the long-distance cycle route leads from Wedel near Hamburg to Flensburg on the Danish border, offering cyclists a rich insight into the nature and cultural history of this region.

A special feature of the Ochsenweg: In Uetersen, the route splits into an eastern and western variant, which reunite just before Rendsburg. This dual routing allows you to explore the long-distance cycle route via different paths or combine both variants on a round trip. Away from busy traffic routes, you'll cross vast moorlands and marshes, cycle through forests and experience the typical North German meadows and heathlands with their picturesque villages.

Essential Route Information

Difficulty: Easy to moderate, suitable for cyclists of all experience levels
Elevation profile: Mostly flat, typical of the Schleswig-Holstein landscape
Surfaces: Varied surfaces including asphalt, paved roads, forest and field paths, and sections with loose ground
Route type: Predominantly away from busy roads
Recommended bike: Touring bike or trekking bike due to the mixed surfaces
Quality development: The Ochsenweg is being developed into the first quality cycle route in Schleswig-Holstein

Route Marking and Navigation

The signposting of the Ochsenweg is currently in a transition phase. As part of its development into a quality cycle route, the previous route marker featuring the Cimbrian Peninsula is gradually being replaced by a new symbol with crossed horns. During your tour, you'll encounter both route markers. Special orientation points are provided by the so-called Ochsenhörner (ox horns), which are installed at the crossing points of the new long-distance cycle route with the historically documented Ochsenweg.

The Two Route Variants

Both variants start together in Wedel and separate in Uetersen, reuniting just before Rendsburg. From there, the route continues jointly through Schleswig to the destination in Flensburg.

The Western Route

The western variant takes you through the expansive Seestermüher Marsch, a characteristic cultural landscape with its typical marsh soils and open horizons. Via Elmshorn and Itzehoe, you'll cycle through wooded areas and along the Stör river to Hohenweststedt. This route shows you the diversity of Schleswig-Holstein's marshland.

The Eastern Route

The eastern variant crosses extensive moor and forest areas and leads through the spa town of Bad Bramstedt to Nortorf. This route is particularly suited for nature lovers who want to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of North German moors and forests.

Key Attractions Along the Route

The Ochsenweg offers an impressive variety of cultural and historical highlights, ranging from Viking-era history to modern technology.

UNESCO World Heritage Danewerk: This imposing rampart system stretches over 30 kilometres and ranks among the oldest archaeological monuments in Schleswig-Holstein's history
Rosarium Uetersen: One of Germany's largest rose gardens, located directly at the starting area of the route
Wildpark Eekholt: Located near Bad Bramstedt, a worthwhile detour on the eastern route
Skulpturenpark Nortorf: Outdoor art enjoyment on the eastern variant
Historic Rendsburg Transporter Bridge: A technical masterpiece for all technology enthusiasts at the junction point of both routes
Gottorf Castle in Schleswig: An imposing Baroque castle with significant museums
Viking Museum Haithabu: Immersive exhibits on Viking history and daily life near Schleswig
Museumswerft Flensburg: A working shipyard museum with hands-on exhibits at the tour's destination

Audio Stories from the Ochsenweg

The Ochsenweg features audio stories that bring the route to life. The storytelling characters Freya and Tjark accompany you with entertaining conversations and discussions along the way. You'll learn exciting facts about the historic Ochsenweg, German-Danish history and the agriculture of the region.

Accommodation Options

The infrastructure along the Ochsenweg is well set up for cycle tourists. Numerous inviting rest areas line the route, some equipped with covered and lockable parking spaces for bicycles.

Bett+Bike establishments: Certified bicycle-friendly accommodations along the entire route
Hotels and guesthouses: Available in towns and larger villages
Youth hostels: An affordable option for budget-conscious cycle tourists
Campsites and nature camping spots: For outdoor enthusiasts along the route

Culinary Highlights

Inns and kiosks along the route provide refreshments during your tour. In towns such as Elmshorn, Itzehoe, Bad Bramstedt, Rendsburg, Schleswig and Flensburg, you'll find a wide selection of places to stop for food and drink.

Practical Considerations

Through the Schleswig-Holstein Cycling Strategy 2030, the long-distance cycle routes are being continuously optimised. As part of these quality improvements, route alignments and details may change. The predominantly flat terrain makes the Ochsenweg well suited for families and less experienced cyclists too.

The mixed surfaces require a robust bicycle with wider tyres
Both route variants are similar in length and offer different landscape experiences
Package deals for the Ochsenweg can be booked through the tourist regions

Final Tips

With its two variants, the Ochsenweg offers a unique opportunity to discover Schleswig-Holstein by bike. Whether you choose the marshlands of the western route or the moorlands of the eastern route: both paths lead you through a varied landscape with significant historical sites. The combination of nature experience, history and well-developed infrastructure makes this long-distance cycle route a rewarding choice for cycle tourists of all experience levels. The Ochsenweg continues into Denmark as the Hærvejen, offering the possibility of a cross-border cycling tour all the way to Viborg.