FAQ
Here you will find answers to your questions about the RockHead adventure!
General questions about the RockHead
What is the RockHead and who is it suitable for?
The RockHead is a 320 km long gravel bike route through Upper Lusatia and Saxon Switzerland. It is aimed at adventurous gravel bikers and anyone who wants to experience challenging nature.
When is the best time for a tour on the RockHead?
If you want to be on the safe side, then plan your tour between April and October. In the winter months, the passability of the route depends heavily on the weather. This applies in particular to the sections in the mountains. Find out about the conditions before your tour so that everything runs smoothly.
How difficult is the route?
The RockHead offers both challenging climbs and fast descents as well as relaxed stages. In general, the southern part of the route is more challenging than the northern part. You can adjust the pace and route to suit your fitness level.
Is the route marked?
The route itself is not signposted, but you will receive all the important information with your starter pack, including a detailed map and GPS data.
Are there official starting points?
We recommend starting in Stadt Wehlen. In general, you can start the route at any point that suits you best. Good main access points are: Bad Schandau, Sohland/Spree, Zittau, Löbau, Bischofswerda and Stolpen.
Arrival
What is the best way to get to the starting point of the RockHead?
You can join the RockHead route at various locations. The main access points such as Stadt Wehlen, Bad Schandau, Zittau, Löbau or Bischofswerda are easily accessible by public transport. You can find a journey planner here. (Link to: Home/Planning/Journey)
Are there access routes from central locations?
Yes, you can travel to Dresden or Görlitz, for example, and use our RockHead access routes from there. More detailed overviews are available here. Link to: Home/Route/Zurbinger)
Preparation and equipment
Do I need a special gravel bike?
A gravel bike is ideal, but you can also ride the RockHead on a mountain bike or a robust trekking bike. The route consists of a mixture of gravel paths, forest tracks and asphalt.
Are e-bikes allowed on the route?
Yes, you can also ride the route on an e-bike. There are several charging points along the route. You can find a detailed overview here. (Link to: Home/Planning/Bike service)
What equipment do I need?
We recommend sturdy tires, sufficient tools, a mini pump, repair kit, bike lock, lights, moisture-repellent jerseys, arm and leg warmers, cycling gloves and socks, windproof and waterproof jacket, cycling shoes and helmet
Accommodation and meals
What are suitable accommodation options at RockHead?
There are various accommodation options along the gravel bike route, including hotels, guesthouses and campsites. We recommend staying overnight with our RockHead hosts. They are perfectly equipped for your gravel bike experience, are bike-friendly and offer you all the important services for gravel bikers. You can find an overview of our accommodation partners here. (Link to: Home/Book/book accommodation)
Can I buy food on the way?
There are several restaurants, cafés, petrol stations and supermarkets along the route. You can find a rough estimate of where you might run short of supplies on the map in the "Basic Pack" starter package. In general, we recommend carrying enough water and snacks with you at all times, especially on longer stages.
Navigation and maps
How do I navigate the route?
You can navigate the RockHead route using our large RockHead map from the starter pack or using GPS data, which is also included in the pack. The Navigator Pack also contains a practical cell phone holder that can be synchronized with all standard cell phones and handlebars. You can find an overview of all starter packs here.
Is GPS data available for the route?
Yes, when you buy a starter pack you get access to GPS data for the entire route.
Can I ride the route without a map?
No, the RockHead is a digital route recommendation and can only be ridden with the current GPS data.
Starter packages and products
What is included in the RockHead starter pack?
Each starter pack contains a large RockHead map, seven stage maps, a logbook, a wooden pencil, a sticker set and, from 2025, access to an exclusive online area. Depending on requirements, there is also a cell phone holder (Navigator Pack) or a water bottle and enamel mug (Adventure Pro Pack). You can find an overview of all starter packs here. (Link to: Home/Shop & Starter Packs/Starter Pack)
How does the donation to the Forest for Saxony Foundation work?
With the purchase of each starter pack, €2.50 is automatically donated to the Forest for Saxony Foundation. These funds are used for reforestation and forest conservation projects, particularly in the two destinations of Saxon Switzerland and Upper Lusatia.
Nature conservation and the environment
How can I protect nature along the route?
Please leave nature as you found it. Take your garbage with you, stay on the marked paths and respect the flora and fauna. By purchasing a starter pack, you are also supporting the reforestation of the two regions of Saxon Switzerland and Upper Lusatia. You can find the RockHead code of conduct with further information here.
Weather and season
When is the best time to ride the RockHead?
It is only accessible from April to October! The weather conditions in winter, especially in the mountains, are too unpredictable for a bike adventure.
Are there any route closures or detour at the moment?
You can find up-to-date information on route closures and detour here.
