Once a year, my dad, brother and I take time off to ride together somewhere new. It’s become a small family tradition. Just a few days of gravel riding, good food, and catching up. This time, we headed to the Harz Mountains in central Germany, a region once divided by the Iron Curtain and now known for its dense forests, steep climbs, and network of gravel roads.

We were lucky enough to be invited by Pim and Carla from Explore the Harz, who offered us a great base to discover the area. From their guesthouse in the heart of the mountains, we spent several days exploring quiet forest roads, long gravel climbs, and remote landscapes. And it didn’t take long to see why the Harz is worth adding to your next gravel trip list.

First Impressions – Riding Where East Met West

The Harz lies at the heart of Germany and for decades marked the border between East and West. The Iron Curtain once cut through these forests with watchtowers, patrol roads, and barbed wire. Today, that border has been transformed into the Green Belt. It’s a nature corridor that runs across Europe, with trails following the old line for cyclists and hikers alike.

I personally didn’t know much about the Harz before arriving, but it quickly surprised me. The gravel roads seemed endless, the climbs offered far more elevation than I expected, and despite its accessibility, the area felt remarkably empty. That says something coming from someone living in Sweden. The first impression was a good one: the Harz quickly proved itself a hidden gravel paradise.

Benneckenstein & Explore the Harz – The Perfect Base

We stayed in Benneckenstein, a small village tucked in the southern Harz. Its location made it easy to access a variety of routes right from the doorstep. And the surrounding landscape of Benneckenstein offered exactly the kind of quiet gravel roads we were looking for. Despite being small in size with just 1,700 inhabitants, it offers supermarkets, bakeries, and restaurants.

Our hosts, Pim and Carla from Explore the Harz, were an invaluable resource. They know every hidden trail and local climb, helped us plan daily routes, and shared tips on surfaces, elevation, and weather. Staying with them turned what could have been a simple cycling trip into a true adventure with routes tailored to our pace and fitness. And the best part? From the guesthouse to the first gravel stretch is just 900 meters away!

Highlights of the Harz

The Brocken, at 1,142 meters, is the crown jewel of the Harz Mountains. The climb from Benneckenstein is long and steady, winding through dense forest before the summit disappears into mist. Reaching the top feels rewarding, not just for the view but for conquering the region’s highest point. You need to be a bit lucky with the weather, as mist and thick fog can easily hide the views.

Another standout was the Rehberger Grabenweg, a smooth gravel trail following an old mining canal along cliffs and valleys. Quiet roads, scenic forest stretches, and bits of history along the way made it a perfect day’s ride. We also passed through Braunlage, a lively mountain town whose ski lifts and chalets added contrast to the solitude of the surrounding forest roads, a different but equally charming side of the Harz.

Tips & Tricks for Gravel Cycling in the Harz Mountains

If you’re planning a gravel trip in the Harz, a few practical tips can make your rides smoother. Tyres around 40–45 mm work best for most forest roads, though rougher sections may require extra caution. Light gearing is essential for the steep climbs, particularly if you plan to tackle the Brocken. Most roads are smooth gravel, but you should expect occasional rough patches, cobbled mining roads, and muddy sections after rain.

Resupply on the trails is limited, so bring snacks and water, especially for longer routes. Rain is common in the Harz even during summer, so a lightweight rain jacket is recommended. GPS is highly useful for navigation. Komoot, Strava or similar apps work well, as many trails are marked but maps alone aren’t always enough.

A Hidden Gem in Germany

By the end of our trip, the Harz had surprised me in every way. It’s a region that many might overlook, yet it offers a unique combination of history, quiet gravel roads, and challenging climbs that few other places can match. Riding the Iron Curtain trails, climbing to the Brocken, and sharing long days on gravel with my dad and brother made this trip something special. The Harz left us tired, happy, and already talking about where to ride next.

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