Germany's Stunning Bike Routes
The Altmühltal Bike Path in Germany offers an unforgettable cycling experience for beginners and seasoned riders alike. This 200-kilometer route, one of seven scenic bike tours in the country, winds through the Altmühltal Nature Park in Bavaria, following the slow-moving Altmühl River[1][3].
Route and Attractions
The Altmühltal Bike Path connects picturesque towns such as Treuchtlingen, Eichstätt, and Kelheim, providing scenic bases for exploration[1][3]. Along the way, you'll encounter sandstone cliffs around Eichstätt and Kelheim, the Danube Gorge near Kelheim as a short detour, and fossil-rich limestone areas where the famous Archaeopteryx was discovered[1][3].
The trail leads cyclists through a variety of landscapes, including valleys, hilltop castles, forests, and meadows. It is part of a longer trail called the Altmühltal Panorama Trail, following the river for nearly 200 kilometers[1][3]. Canoeing and fossil hunting are also popular activities in this region, adding variety to a bike trip.
Difficulty Level
The Altmühltal Bike Path is generally considered moderate to easy due to the river valley's relatively gentle terrain and slow river flow[2]. Komoot rates several routes in the Altmühltal as mostly intermediate, with ride lengths ranging from 15 to 65 kilometers and elevation gains generally under 200 meters per route[2]. However, some expert-level routes exist for those seeking a more challenging ride.
Access and Best Time to Visit
The region is easily accessible by train, with connections from Nuremberg and Munich to towns like Eichstätt, Treuchtlingen, and Kelheim. Local bike rentals are available, and a car can be useful to reach quieter trailheads or fossil sites[1]. The best time for cycling is from May to September, with spring offering mild weather and wildflowers, and autumn providing cooler temperatures and scenic fall colors[1].
In summary, the Altmühltal Bike Path is a must-visit destination for cyclists looking for a mix of leisure and discovery. The route is well-suited for intermediate riders but accessible to most with some cycling experience[1][2][3]. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced cyclist, the Altmühltal Bike Path promises a memorable journey through Germany's beautiful landscapes and rich history.
- The Altmühl Bike Path passes by the Weltenburg monastery near Kelheim.
- The Altmühl Bike Path leads towards the Danube estuary.
- The Altmühl Bike Path ends at the Liberation Hall in Kelheim.
- The Altmühl River is one of the slowest rivers in Germany.
- The Altmühltal Bike Path is located in Germany.
- The Altmühl Bike Path is affordable.
- The Altmühl Bike Path does not have any dangerous descents or turns.
- The Altmühl Bike Path is suitable for cycling.
- The Altmühl Bike Path is a tourist attraction.
- The Altmühl Bike Path passes by the castle of Prunn near Riedenburg.
- The Altmühl Bike Path passes by the Roman fort of Biriciana in Weißenburg.
The Altmühltal Bike Path, located in Germany, offers sports enthusiasts a tourist attraction that is suitable for cycling, with a scenic route passing by landmarks such as the Weltenburg monastery near Kelheim and the castle of Prunn near Riedenburg. Along the path, visitors can enjoy a variety of sports activities, such as canoeing and fossil hunting, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a mix of leisure and discovery. The Altmühltal Bike Path is generally considered moderate to easy, suitable for intermediate riders but accessible to most with some cycling experience.