Berlin Wall Cycle Tours
Posted on November 8, 2014This Sunday marks 25 years since the Berlin Wall crumbled. At 22:45 on the 9th of November 1989 the East German authorities bowed to overwhelming pressure and opened the gates allowing thousands of East Germans to cross over into West Germany for the first time. Around the world, news reports showed powerful images of tearful re-unions and ecstatic celebrations. The wall had gone up overnight on the 13th of August 1961 and stood for 28 years.
Berlin Wall remnant
25 years later and Berlin has moved on but it is still possible to find remnants and signs of the old divide. Most of the actual wall was removed in the early 90’s, much of it by souvenir hunters armed with hammers and chisels, but sections still remain and are now protected for posterity.
To the east of the city centre you can visit the East Side Gallery – a 1.3 km stretch of the original wall now covered in murals by international artists. At the Berlin Wall Memorial you will find another short section preserved intact, complete with no-mans land and guard tower. Through much of the city a double row of cobblestones marks where the wall once stood
The excellent Wall Museum at Checkpoint Charlie in the centre of city provides a detailed history of the wall and includes stories of those affected by it. The many escape attempts are well documented here, some successful, some not but all incredibly brave.
Checkpoint Charlie
Besides its interesting Cold War history, Berlin is a vibrant, welcoming city with a deserved reputation for excellent restaurants and exciting nightlife. It also has an excellent network of cycle paths and is nearly completely flat making it the perfect choice for a cycling break. Checkout our 7 night Berlin Wall Cycling Holiday for more details.
Rivers & Lakes: Cycling holidays alongside rivers and/or lakes.
Coastal: Cycling holidays that follow a coastline.
Wine Lovers: Cycling holidays through well known wine regions.
Gastronomic: Cycling holidays through regions renowned for their cuisine.
E-bikes: Cycling holidays where e-bikes are available as well as regular bikes.
One Response to “Berlin Wall Cycle Tours”
Thank you Andy, you’ve certainly whet my appetite for Berlin. I thoroughly enjoyed my Champagne and Burgundy tour last year. Now putting Berlin in my diary for next time. Cheers!