Cycling Paradise Sylt 2026: Win a ticket with us for the pre-ride with Erik Zabel

Admittedly, Sylt isn’t the first place that springs to mind when you think of cycling. But that didn’t deter Lars Bendix Düysen, a native of Sylt, from launching ‘Cycling Paradise’ in 2023: a cycling event for everyone, whether they’re riding a road bike, a gravel bike or a vintage bike. For Lars and his team, it’s all about enjoying a ride on the island without the pressure of competition. The focus is on cycling together at a leisurely pace and, at the end, arriving at a destination where all participants can relax and round off their day in the saddle.

Three routes to choose from

There are three distances to choose from at Cycling Paradise Sylt: the grand tour of the island is 100 km long and takes you along the coast through the Sylt countryside. The compact route covers 65 km. The Family Route, at 40 km, is the shortest option and is limited to a maximum of 50 participants. All routes take in coastal stretches, dunes and Sylt’s legendary towns. Vintage bikes, road bikes, gravel bikes and e-bikes are permitted.

Win a ticket and a pre-ride session with Erik Zabel now

​Anyone who wants to treat themselves to that special extra experience alongside a holiday on Sylt should apply HERE for the exclusive Cycling Paradise Pre-Ride with Erik Zabel, in collaboration with our event partner JobRad Loop, the supplier of reconditioned, ex-company and ex-lease bikes.

​Together, as part of a small, select group, we’ll then hit the road with one of Germany’s greatest cycling legends to get in the mood for Cycling Paradise Sylt. Personal insights, fascinating conversations and the kilometres we cover together are sure to make this ride a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The focus isn’t on performance, but on the ride itself: relaxed, open and designed for anyone who enjoys cycling and good company.

Location: Sylt
Start of the pre-ride: 28 August 2026, 3.00 pm
Deadline for applications: 21 August 2026

Apply now!

High-profile participants and presenters

Former professional cyclist Erik Zabel is taking part in the event for the fourth time. Paracycling athlete Denise Schindler will be hosting the event in the start and finish areas. Actor Jan Josef Liefers and his wife Anna Loos will be taking part as participants. Lars Bendix Düysen from Cycling Paradise GmbH describes the event as “a ride for people who love cycling, Sylt and community spirit”.

Programme and Timetable for Cycling Paradise Sylt

The race will start in small groups between 07:30 and 09:30. The Family Run starts at 10:30. Finish times are scheduled between 10.00 and 17.00, with the heaviest flow of finishers expected from 12.00 onwards. Denise Schindler will be hosting the finish line from 13.00 to 17.00. A live performance will take place between 5.00 pm and 6.00 pm on the terrace of the Kursaal. From 6.00 pm to 10.00 pm, a DJ and lounge music will round off the day.

Supporting programme for Cycling Paradise Sylt

Several refreshment stations are planned along the route. The participating restaurants include Samoa Seepferdchen, Roots, Vogelkoje, Bambus Bar and Strandhafer. The final locations will be agreed with partners and the relevant authorities. Participants are responsible for bringing their own water, food, weatherproof clothing, lights and a spare inner tube. On Friday evening, a pasta party will take place at the Porsche Studio Sylt. A special screening of the cycling film “Höllentour” is planned in collaboration with Erik Zabel.

Start and finish area in Wenningstedt

The central area will be set up around the Kursaal, Strandhafer and Saal am Kliff. This is where the start, finish, cycle parking, relaxation areas and stage will be located. In the event of bad weather, programme items may be moved from the terrace into the Kursaal. The organisers are planning this area as a meeting point where participants can stay after the ride.

Tickets for Cycling Paradise Sylt

A standard ticket costs 129 euros. The price includes participation in the chosen route, start organisation, refreshment stations and the supporting programme. Places are limited, particularly for the Family Route. Helmets are compulsory. The ride takes place on public roads in accordance with the German Road Traffic Regulations (StVO). Participants must have a ticket, ID and weather-appropriate clothing. Final details regarding check-in, race packs, the route and refreshment points will be sent out via newsletter before the event.