The Mittellandroute, also called the D4 route, runs once across Germany - from Aachen to Zittau - and thus connects the western with the eastern border of the country. This tour runs from Neustadt i.Sa. in Saxon Switzerland to the start or end point of the Mittellandroute in Zittau.
On the Mittelland Route from Neustadt to Zittau, cycling adventurers discover a picturesque landscape full of fascinating stories. The almost 85 km² town of Neustadt is idyllically situated in the Neustadt Valley between Ungerberg and Hohwald, at the interface between the Elbe Sandstone Mountains and the Lusatian Mountains. Already mentioned in 1333 as a gold mining town, Neustadt has a rich history to tell. Miners from Freiberg founded the settlement, which did not become famous for large gold deposits, but became increasingly important due to the strategic intersection of two important trade routes, the Salt Route and the Pilgrims' Route.
During a relaxed walk through the town, there is much to discover, such as the impressive 18th-century town hall, the Electoral Saxon Post Office Column and the historic Jacobi Church from 1884. For those interested in history, the town museum in the old malt house is an absolute must, where exciting facts about the town's history await you. The museum also offers evening events and temporary exhibitions to round off the cultural programme.
The route continues via Berthelsdorf into the magnificent scenery of Lusatia. Past the Valtengrund granodiorite open-cast mine and the Grenzland dolerite open-cast mine, it leads to Neukirch/Lausitz. On the way, you will pass through charming towns such as Ringenhain, Weifa, Schirgiswalde and finally Sohland an der Spree. The half-timbered houses, a unique combination of solid, half-timbered and log construction, characterise the image of this region. In Ebersbach you will also find one of the three Spree springs. Again and again, the route approaches the border and finally leads you through Neusalza-Spremberg, Eibau and Oderwitz. The latter is known as a windmill and weather village, with the "Wetterkabinett" meteorology centre and three impressive trestle windmills.
The Mittelland Route finally ends in the town of Zittau, which extends over approx. 67 km² at the foot of the Zittau Mountains. Here there are numerous sights to discover, such as the historic salt house dating from 1511, the impressive town hall from 1840-1845 and the charming artists' quarter "Mandauer Glanz". Also worthy of special mention is the Stadtbad, built in 1812, which is now the oldest municipal swimming pool still in operation in Germany. The city of Zittau invites you to linger and rewards cycling explorers with a touch of nostalgia and cultural diversity.
