Section E approx. 31 km from Bleckede to Hitzacker (Elbe)

The 400km-long Elbe Floodplain UNESCO Biosphere Reserve starts in Lauenburg, and is characterised by its vast, sparsely populated tracks of land and impressive wildlife. In this section of the Elbe floodplain, maritime shipping has had a great historic impact. Many captains settled here in the small villages. The small towns of Hitzacker, Bleckede, Boizenburg and Lauenburg break up the long stretches of natural countryside.
To the left of the Elbe, there is an alternative cycle route that transverses the steep elevations along the river. A tree-covered drifting dune, carved out during the Ice Age, and old half-timbered houses provide the picturesque backdrop for your tour.

• How to describe Bleckede and its surroundings? Art, culture and nature, a historic ambiance and a uniquely beautiful river landscape. Many artists enjoy the delicious peace and quiet provided by this landscape.
  
• On the edge of the Klötziehügel with the Elbhöhen Wendland National Park and the Kateminer Mühlenbachtal stream flowing towards the Göhrde forest, Neu Darchau offers excellent hiking trails ideal for discovering the area.
  
• Amt Neuhaus, which was a GDR territory due to its position on the right side of the Elbe, is the only ex-GDR place to now be part of a state that was in democratic West Germany.
  
• Stiepelse is one of the few well-preserved Lower Saxon villages on the right side of the Elbe. After the border was opened, this idyllic location on the river shot to fame.
  
• Hitzacker (Elbe) is a real pearl on the Elbe in the Elbe Floodplain Biosphere Reserve with its half-timbered town centre, the old customs house, plenty of boat trips, two museums and vineyards with breathtaking views.