Amanda Chudobey-Berger is a fully signed-up Berliner. Once a Montreal native, she’s called Germany's capital of club-culture and Euro-beat eccentricity her home turf for the past year. Whether rolling around Tempelhofer Feld or blazing the lush trails of Grunewald, Amanda, like many of us, has landed on Berlin as her ultimate training ground of choice.
Her cycling journey began in her late teens, zooming to university on a fixed gear before diving headfirst into the adrenaline zone of downhill mountain biking in the Quebec mountains. Fast forward a few years, and she's now a seasoned racer, dominating gravel, road, and fixed-gear circuits. Always up for a quick Q&A, Amanda laid down the best routes and hangouts in and around her new hometown.
So first up, what have been your first impressions of Berlin?
Berlin is known for its vibrant nightlife and bustling energy, though it can sometimes feel overwhelming. This is why escaping the chaos for a solo ride through Brandenburg's quiet streets, for example, is such a rejuvenating experience. Growing up in Canada, I have a deep connection to nature, and I love getting lost in the serenity of the forest. When I return from these peaceful rides into Berlin's streets, I find a renewed appreciation for the city's unique charm. These two worlds—tranquil nature and lively urban life—are in stark contrast, yet somehow, I feel at home in both. As you return to the city after a long ride, you're not just a visitor; you become part of this vibrant tapestry, ready to explore hidden gems and soak in the dynamic spirit that defines Berlin.
Berlin is a vibrant tapestry of eccentricity and exoticism, where history and modernity collide in fascinating ways. Each neighborhood boasts a distinct personality and charm, making cycling through them a truly immersive experience. As you navigate bustling markets and lively squares, you can feel the city's heart beating with every interaction. Whether you find yourself in the messy, rugged streets of Neukölln or Mitte's fancy, quaint avenues, you can't help but appreciate the diverse characters that define Berlin.
What makes Berlin such a great place to ride?
Training in Berlin this year has been a whirlwind, mainly due to my extensive travel for racing and attending events. It's been a packed schedule, from tackling the Traka 200 to competing in the Road to Desolation in South Africa and experiencing my first-ever 800km ultra at Badlands in Spain, along with gravel races in Sweden and Denmark. Despite the busyness, there's nothing quite like returning to my new home. I love hopping on my road bike for some serious interval sessions, allowing me to regain my footing before heading to the next race.
When I've had time to recover from traveling and racing, I sometimes join the fastest group ride in the city: the Standert Feierabendrunde, held every Thursday evening throughout the summer. This session is exhilarating, as the pace is relentless, and everyone is pushing so damn hard on the pedals. You really have to give it your all to keep up with the pack. The 2-3 hour route winds through Grunewald, a go-to for many cyclists.
Grunewald is one of my favorite places to ride. Just outside of western Berlin, it offers fantastic road and gravel routes, allowing you to quickly escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the forest. It's also one of the few areas in Berlin with some hills to tackle. Whether I'm focusing on intervals, sweet spots, or simply enjoying a zone 2 ride, Grunewald is the perfect destination for a gravel or road session.
Another fantastic training spot is Tempelhoferfeld, a former airport transformed into a vibrant public space where people run, kite-surf, and cycle. It's a popular destination for watching the sunset or enjoying drinks and picnics with friends, so many cyclists prefer to hit the airfield early in the morning before the crowds arrive. By doing so, they can avoid the busy hours when the area is bustling with people savoring their Aperol Spritz in the sun. Additionally, there's the well-known Tuesday morning "fast laps," called the Tuesday Kreiseln, which attracts many riders looking to get in a solid workout together before heading to the office.
Amanda’s Training Ground Routes by Road
Potsdam Loop - 110km
For those who don’t know, Potsdam is a small town about 40 km west of Berlin that feels like a mini Vienna. A nice canal runs through the town and more canals around it, making any ride around Potsdam incredibly scenic. It is filled with bodies of water, forests, and long, quiet roads that aren’t too busy with cars. Keen for a coffee stop in Potsdam? Buena Vida Coffee Roasters is the place to be.
Wandlitz Nord - 90km
Another perfect route for training, a personal favorite for that long solo fondo or base ride. But this time, you go through the North of Brandenburg, which takes you around Wandlitz. This route is also very scenic, as you pass by windmills, fields, and farms. It's a bit busier with cars, but it is still great, especially in the evening before the sun sets.
Grunewald - 70km
This is a perfect go-to, the absolute best and easiest route for that weekday training smash, zone 2, or intervals, or to quickly escape the city, head into the forest and get a training session in. It is the only place in Berlin where you can get some climbing done.
Buckow - 200km
The perfect route for that longer-distance ride taking you to Buckow, a small German town with a huge lake and some quaint little German cafés with coffee and homemade cake. Make sure to bring cash with you because almost all small shops in Germany only take cash!
Amanda’s Best Routes on Gravel
Grunewald Off Road - 70km:
Strolling around the forest in a mix of single trails, gravel highways, CX segments, and lots of tree roots. Bonus: unexplored lakeside paths at the end!
North's Forest Trails - 100km
With the most lovely of stops at Hof Café in the Antiquarium [insert https://maps.app.goo.gl/phjYXs53KctZFqZS9] in the middle of absolutely nowhere. There's plenty of lake time and so much greenery; it's just the sickest route there is.
East Berlin Mugglesee - 72km
The one doesn’t stretch too far but quickly takes you out of the city and into some very fun single-track trails. Past the Mugglesee waterside, a gorgeous route to explore.
Amanda’s Top Segments
I often love segments that have unforgettable names, so here are some segments that not only have great names, but are also really fun to do!
Panda’s Rechts - 4km
A spicy road segment out in the North of Brandenburg. Perfect to chomp down on the pedals for as long as you can.
Bock auf Laktat - 1.6km
In English, the title translates to “Down for Lactate?”. This road segment can be found at Tempelhof during the Tuesday morning fast laps, where your legs will eat lactate for breakfast.
Asphalt-Gravel-Spaß - 8km
Up for a fun gravel segment in the woods? Say no more. There’s a reason why it has the word “Spaß” (fun!).
We couldn’t talk Training Grounds without some coffee tips. Who delivers the beans?
Oh yeah, Berlin has an incredible gastronomy and coffee scene; there are great spots all around town as the cafe culture is booming throughout the city.
One of my favorite hangouts is LAP Coffee (short for 'Life Among People'), which is very small but very good. The only sitting area is outside.
Isla Coffee is another where everyone hangs out on Tuesday mornings after fast laps at Tempelhof. Then there's Blumental - a very cute café with a vibey and colorful interior - a great place to park yourself.
Any food hacks? What’s your go-to spot?
Finding a place to eat post-ride isn’t always easy, especially with a bike to worry about. Therefore, one of my favorite spots to grab a quick bite to eat is Saveur de Bánh Mì. You can easily place your order on your phone while out riding, and your delicious Bánh Mì sandwich will be ready when you arrive. The staff is friendly, and they have a cozy outdoor seating area, so you can enjoy your meal without losing sight of your bike.
What are the key items in your kit? Anything you can’t leave behind?
I can’t leave the house without my headphones. I almost always ride with music; something about those groovy beats energizes me as I navigate the city and glide into the forest. Additionally, I always bring along a pack of Haribo gummies for long rides. The best are the vegan yogurt-flavored Katjies—they’re delicious. Oh, and also, I can never forget my repair kit - as a former part-time mechanic, I believe in being prepared. I carry it with me 99% of the time, but of course, the one time I forget it, I inevitably end up with a flat!
So music is super important to you. What’s on your playlist?
Want the ultimate Berlin soundtrack package? Listen to Panshanim; he’s the ultimate Berlin vibe. Some other great Berlin artists are Paula Hartmann, Levin Liam, Ufo26, Trettman & KitschKrieg.
Although Berlin rap is a great vibe, you’ll often find me jamming to many Afrobeat artists and some French rap. Some of my favourite artists are Burna Boy, Tems, Doja Cat, Gabzy, Kaytranada, Charlotte Cardin, and Yamê.
And finally, as a foreigner living in a big city which a lot of us can relate to, what always brings you back to Berlin?
One of the most captivating experiences is returning to the city after a long ride, with the iconic TV Tower looming in the distance and the nightlife gradually awakening as the sun sets. Coming back feels like diving into a whirlwind of energy and life. The sounds of laughter and chatter fill the air, blending seamlessly with the distant beats from nearby cafes and bars. The vibrant colors of street art pop against the backdrop of historic buildings, drawing you in and captivating your imagination at every turn. It really is the best.
Amanda Chudobey-Berger was shot on location in Berlin by Savannah van der Niet (@savvyv) wearing the new season of MAAP Training kit available now.
