Cycling in Hanover

Route 5: Eilenriede Route

Explore Hanover—eco-friendly by bike:

The Eilenriede Route stretches about 11 kilometers from Maschsee to the lock in Anderten. This brochure tells you what there is to discover along this well-marked route. So hop on your bike and have a great ride!

The Eilenriede

The green oasis in the middle of the city

Covering approximately 640 hectares, it is one of the largest urban forests in Europe. It is the remnant of a prehistoric forest belt in the glacial valley of the Leine River, which stretched roughly between Hildesheim and Neustadt and was first mentioned in 1333 as "elenriede." The name likely means “wet forest.” Since 1371, the city forest has officially been the property of the citizens of Hannover. In the late Middle Ages, the city had an extensive system of ramparts and ditches constructed in the Eilenriede. Parts of this defensive system have survived to this day. Since the 19th century, the forest has transformed from a working forest into a recreational forest with playgrounds, sunbathing areas, and a dense network of paths. The front section of the Eilenriede was redesigned around 1900 by garden director Julius Trip into a forest park featuring a watercourse and sculptures. The southern section, through which this route passes, is partly the result of later reforestation efforts.

The main attractions along this route are listed below: