Berlin Students Trade Screens for Scenic Routes: Cycling to Königssee Without a Cell Phone
GROSSKAROLINENFELD, GERMANY – July 13, 2025 – In a refreshing departure from the digitally-dependent lives of many young people, nine 13 and 14-year-old students from Berlin have begun an ambitious 11-day cycling adventure to Königssee, Bavaria, armed with nothing but maps, compasses, and a spirit of self-reliance. This breaking news story highlights a growing movement towards intentional disconnection and the revival of traditional skills.
A Journey Back in Time: Navigating the Bavarian Landscape
The group, accompanied by two 18-year-old student chaperones, set off from Großkarolinenfeld today, planning to cover approximately 40 kilometers each day. Forget Google Maps; these students meticulously planned their route beforehand, printing out detailed maps to guide their journey. “The children have drawn the route beforehand and then printed out the card,” explained Fiete, one of the chaperones. “So wherever it goes, you have to find out yourself.”
This isn’t simply a scenic bike ride; it’s a core component of the curriculum at the Evangelical School Berlin Center, where students in the seventh, eighth, and ninth grades are required to complete a “mastery” project. While the Königssee trip was their chosen challenge, options range from farm stays to shorter, localized cycling tours. The emphasis is on fostering independence, problem-solving, and a connection to the physical world.
The Rise of Digital Detox: Why Unplugging Matters
The project directly addresses the pervasive influence of smartphones on young people. “With these challenges that the students have to deal with, are generally no cell phones allowed,” Fiete explained, noting that phones were used *only* for the initial planning stages. This deliberate disconnection isn’t about demonizing technology, but rather about cultivating essential life skills often overlooked in the digital age.
Experts in child development increasingly advocate for periods of “digital detox” to promote mental well-being, enhance creativity, and strengthen real-world social skills. Constantly being “on” can lead to anxiety, sleep disturbances, and a diminished ability to focus. This Bavarian adventure offers a powerful antidote, forcing the students to rely on their own resourcefulness and the kindness of strangers.
Budgeting and Preparedness: Lessons Beyond the Map
The students aren’t just navigating geographically; they’re also learning valuable lessons in financial responsibility. Each seventh grader received a budget of 130 euros to cover their expenses for the entire 11-day trip, including food and lodging. The chaperones, Fiete and Yvan, both completed a Juleica training – a childcare certification that includes emergency preparedness – and carry a first aid kit and a single cell phone for emergencies only. Their role is to provide support when absolutely necessary, allowing the students to take ownership of their experience.
The group’s first night was spent in Großkarolinenfeld, secured by simply contacting the community and requesting accommodation. Their openness to spontaneous opportunities and reliance on local hospitality further underscores the spirit of adventure and connection at the heart of this journey.
Königssee Awaits: A Bavarian Gem
The students plan to spend several days exploring the breathtaking beauty of Königssee, a pristine alpine lake nestled in the Bavarian Alps. From there, they’ll return to Rosenheim or Großkarolinenfeld before heading back to Berlin by train. And only then, will their smartphones be switched back on.
This unique expedition isn’t just about reaching a destination; it’s about the journey itself – a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and a reminder that sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are found when we disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the world around us. For readers seeking similar opportunities to unplug and explore, Bavaria offers a wealth of scenic routes and charming communities perfect for a technology-free adventure. Stay tuned to archyde.com for more inspiring stories of travel, innovation, and the human spirit.
