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EuroVelo Route 13 opens: cycling through GDR history!
On October 2, 2025, a new section of the EuroVelo Route 13 was opened in Sonneberg, which commemorates the history of the inner-German border.
EuroVelo Route 13 opens: cycling through GDR history!
On October 2, 2025, a new section of the EuroVelo Route 13 - also known as the Iron Curtain Trail - was inaugurated in Sonneberg. This route is not just a cycle path, but also a piece of history that is reminiscent of the former inner-German border. The opening took place at the historic “Burned Bridge”, an iconic location that marks the path of the former Iron Curtain. The mayor of Sonneberg, Heiko Voigt, and the mayor of Neustadt bei Coburg, Frank Rebhan, took part in the ceremony.
Around 40 cyclists took the opportunity to take part in a subsequent tour and try out the new route. This route runs along the point that separated two states until November 12, 1989, and offers cyclists not only a sporting challenge, but also the opportunity to learn more about the history of the region. The In southern Thuringia reports on the positive reactions of the participants who felt appealed by the mixture of nature and history.
A network of cycle paths
The EuroVelo routes are a Europe-wide cycle path network that has been constantly expanded since the 1990s. The European Cyclists' Federation (ECF) is leading this project, which now includes 17 routes with a total length of around 90,000 kilometers. These cycle paths often go over existing national cycle paths and combine different surface types from gravel to asphalt, allowing for a varied journey.
Particularly noteworthy is the EuroVelo 13, which not only runs through Germany, but also through countries such as Norway, Greece and Bulgaria. It is characterized not only by its length, but also by the possibility of traveling to another time. Bicycle adventure travel lists numerous tips for planning tours that are particularly interesting for adventurers who, for example, also want to travel to non-Schengen countries.
GPX tracks and security
Interested cyclists can view the GPX tracks of EuroVelo route 13, which include well-developed sections as well as parts in planning or development. These tracks are licensed under the Open Database License and are available free of charge. It is important that users are aware that they are responsible for their own safety and must comply with national traffic regulations, such as EuroVelo.com informed. A comprehensive disclaimer should be downloaded and read before using the tracks.
With the opening of the new section in Sonneberg it becomes clear how important these cycle paths are as a connection between nature, history and culture. Cycling along EuroVelo Route 13 offers an excellent opportunity to experience the memories of the division of Germany up close and at the same time actively enjoy the beautiful landscape.