The extensive forests and countless ponds of the Upper Lusatian heathland are a true paradise for frogs and amphibians. Cormorants, otters, storks and even white-tailed eagles also call this area home.

In this Collection, you cycle along the Frog Cycle Path for 270 kilometres (167 mi) through this special landscape, which is the only UNESCO biosphere reserve in Saxony. Another special feature of this region is that it’s home to the Sorbs, a West Slavic ethnic group and national minority in Germany who speak both German and Sorbian.

I’ve divided the route into five stages, each just over 50 kilometres (31 mi) long and therefore easy and relaxed day trips. This way, you can enjoy the landscape slowly and stop for a dip or two in the region’s turquoise-blue lakes. If you prefer to push yourself or take it even easier, you can save the full Tour and split it as you like.

Overall, the region is sparsely populated and doesn’t have much tourist infrastructure, making it particularly endearing. However, you’ll need to plan your overnight stays and food shopping in advance. It's best to check where the nearest supermarkets are before each stage and book your guesthouses or hotels ahead of time. There are more campsites and holiday villages in this area, some of which also have bungalows or small holiday homes. If you bring a tent, you’ll always find a place to stay.

An important packing tip if you want to sleep in a tent near the ponds: bring earplugs! It's no joke, especially during the mating season from April to July when the frogs make a mighty racket. In the evening around the campfire, the frog concert is idyllic background music, but as soon as you close your eyes, you'll understand the meaning of the word ‘bio-noise’. These little green hoppers create a full volume of up to 90 decibels, which is the same as a busy road or jackhammer.

However, if you equip yourself accordingly for the night, you’ll learn to love the cute amphibians on this cycle path, especially when they jump at your feet during a break. The cycle path is also waymarked with a friendly green frog, although it’s not always clearly visible so keep komoot handy.

A charming biosphere reserve with Sorbian culture and croaking frogs awaits you – I hope you enjoy your trip and look forward to your comments!