I'm likely arriving in Europe next Summer ten(ish) days before my family flies into Frankfurt. Of course to ride my bicycle from place to place!
I've spent a lot of time in the south and along major river routes, but haven't been to areas north of Berlin, and don't know much about it.
What are the place one might want to visit in the far north of Germany? Towns, cities, sea coasts, islands, forests, lake areas, river and canal rides, agricultural areas, major and minor sights, surfing centers? Local foods/drink not to miss? I'm open to a varied itinerary as long as I can safely ride a bicycle from one place to the next.
What is the topography like up there? I'm guessing fairly flat. Windy? What are the people like?
I've spend probably 6 months traveling solo in Germany, and very much like it, but do sometimes wish there was more casual surface friendliness like in France, Netherlands, etc. I totally get this is a me thing, not a them thing (so save the lecture please). But curious if average compared to Bavaria (for instance) the less smiley culture is stronger, weaker, or same up there. Again, not criticizing, just want to know what the culture is generally like in that aspect of affect so I can be mentally prepared to adapt to local culture. I can get lonely riding alone for days and shallow as it might be a cheery French shopkeeper or chatty Italian waiter can lift my spirits more than one might think. But again a me problem not them; just want to know what to expect.
I don't know where I'll arrive yet. Have a bead on a very cheap ff miles flight to Frankfurt, so maybe there then train to wherever. Or maybe fly to Berlin and ride out of Berlin? Or Copenhagen and head south until time runs out? Hamburg and then ride northeast? Which routing in the broad sense might have the most charming and interest riding days, not monotonous topographically and a lot of following freeways and riding through industry? What are those big lakes north of Berlin? They good? What about the Spreeland area? Is that worth a roll through?
So yeah, anyway, my info request is broad and exploratory (my usual forum MO). I learn a lot that I wouldn't pick up from Google and guidebooks from hearing wide and varied responses. So all comers appreciated!
Would like to book a flight pretty soon - many good ones available in the miles ticket world right now, but of course that changes fast.
Vielen dank!