The best cycling routes around Ottersthal
4.4
(898)
6,574
riders
257
rides
Touring cycling around Ottersthal features a diverse landscape, characterized by the gentle plains of the Bruche Canal and the more challenging ascents into the Parc Naturel Régional des Vosges. The region offers a mix of waterside paths and forested hills, providing varied terrain for cyclists. Historical landmarks, such as châteaux, are often integrated into the routes, adding cultural interest to the rides. The elevation changes range from flat canal paths to significant mountain passes.
Best touring cycling routes around Ottersthal
- The most popular touring cycling route is Steep circuit north of Saverne — Parc Naturel Régional des Vosges, a 27.7 miles (44.6 km) trail that takes 3 hours 12 minutes to complete. This route offers challenging climbs through the scenic natural park.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Bruche Canal – Canal de la Bruche loop from Saverne, a difficult 64.7 miles (104.1 km) path. This long-distance route follows the tranquil waters of the canal, providing a mostly flat and extended ride.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Château des Rohan de Saverne – Valsberg Pass (652 m) loop from Saverne, a 32.6 miles (52.5 km) trail leading through historical sites and over a significant mountain pass, often completed in about 3 hours 27 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Ottersthal is defined by canal paths, forested hills, and historical landmarks, with options available for various ability levels. The network includes easy touring bike trails and more advanced routes with considerable elevation gain.
- The routes in Ottersthal are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1000 reviews. More than 7000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Ottersthal's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 5, 2026
3.6
(5)
29
riders
44.6km
03:12
710m
710m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(160)
762
riders
34.8km
02:03
200m
200m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.6
(34)
279
riders
104km
06:05
410m
410m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(12)
92
riders
32.7km
02:16
510m
510m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(6)
137
riders
40.7km
04:00
940m
940m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Tips from the Community
Old Telegraph, a visit is possible during the summer months
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The Canal de la Bruche is a canal in eastern France that originally connected Soultz-les-Bains near Molsheim with the city of Strasbourg. It was built in 1682 by the famous military engineer Vauban, primarily to transport sandstone from the Soultz quarries for the construction of Strasbourg's fortifications.
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The Château des Rohan, formerly called "The Little Alsatian Versailles," is located in the city center of Saverne on the Rhine-Marne Canal. This former bishop's castle, built in the 13th century and restored in the 19th century on the initiative of Napoleon III, now houses a museum, a cultural center, a youth hostel, and a school. The neoclassical façade (park side), made of pink sandstone, is 140 meters long, which is the same horizontal height as Strasbourg Cathedral. The Château des Rohan Museum presents extensive Gallo-Roman and medieval archaeological collections. It consists of three departments: Art and History, Louise Weiss, and Archaeology. The Art and History department encompasses many areas: paintings, prints, and 15th- and 16th-century polychrome wood carvings from the churches of Saverne and the region, as well as a room dedicated to the history of the castle. Louise Weiss Department To honor her Alsatian ties (her family originally came from Petite-Pierre near Saverne), journalist Louise Weiss (1893-1983) donated her collections (ethnographic objects, paintings, drawings, 19th- and 20th-century decorative arts, and personal archives) to the Saverne Museum in 1981 and 1983. Archaeological Department In the vaulted cellars of the castle, the museum houses a rich archaeological collection, including numerous Gallo-Roman funerary and votive steles. Tours of the museum and access to the castle roof are available (upon request). Admission (museum + roof access): €5 (adults) and €4 (students)
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We really enjoyed the cycle path along the Canal de la Bruche
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Taverne Katz (interesting building)
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View from the garden to the 🏰
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This lock is precision work. Shortly afterward, it's best to cross to the opposite side of the canal to safely backtrack a bit and view the boat lift from below. This way, you can avoid the road.
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This sculpture was made from many small pieces of wood. You can walk underneath it and look like a llama. A real eye-catcher in the square.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Ottersthal?
Ottersthal offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with nearly 270 different tours to explore. These range from easy canal paths to challenging ascents into the Vosges mountains.
Are there easy touring bike trails suitable for beginners in Ottersthal?
Yes, Ottersthal has 42 easy touring cycling routes. These often follow the gentle plains of the Bruche Canal, providing a mostly flat and enjoyable experience for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. An example is the Viaduct over the canal – Saverne Town Center loop from Saverne, which is rated moderate but offers a good balance of canal-side riding.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Ottersthal?
The region around Ottersthal features a diverse landscape. You'll find gentle plains along the Bruche Canal, ideal for waterside paths, as well as more challenging ascents into the forested hills of the Parc Naturel Régional des Vosges. Routes often integrate historical landmarks like châteaux, adding cultural interest.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes around Ottersthal?
Many touring cycling routes in Ottersthal are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the challenging Steep circuit north of Saverne — Parc Naturel Régional des Vosges and the longer Bruche Canal – Canal de la Bruche loop from Saverne are both popular circular options.
What are some scenic viewpoints or natural attractions along the cycling trails?
The touring cycling routes around Ottersthal offer several scenic spots and natural attractions. You can visit the impressive Haut-Barr Castle, explore the unique Graufthal Troglodyte Houses, or discover natural monuments like Prince Charles' Leap Rock and various caves such as Brotsch Cave.
Are there any historical landmarks to explore while cycling?
Yes, historical landmarks are often integrated into the routes. The region is home to several châteaux and other historical sites. A notable example is the Château des Rohan de Saverne – Valsberg Pass (652 m) loop from Saverne, which takes you past significant historical points.
What is the best season for touring cycling in Ottersthal?
While specific conditions vary, the region is generally best enjoyed from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is typically mild, and the natural landscapes, from canal paths to forested hills, are at their most inviting. Winter cycling can be possible but may involve colder temperatures and potentially icy conditions, especially in higher elevations.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Ottersthal?
The touring cycling routes in Ottersthal are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an impressive average rating of 4.5 stars from over 1000 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from tranquil canal paths to challenging mountain passes, and the integration of historical sites.
Are there challenging routes for experienced touring cyclists?
Absolutely. Ottersthal offers 108 difficult touring cycling routes, many of which include considerable elevation gain. Routes like the Steep circuit north of Saverne — Parc Naturel Régional des Vosges and the Saverne – Haut-Barr Castle loop from Saverne provide demanding climbs and rewarding views.
Can I find routes that combine waterside paths with forested areas?
Yes, the landscape around Ottersthal is characterized by both the gentle plains of the Bruche Canal and the forested hills of the Parc Naturel Régional des Vosges. Many routes offer a mix of these environments, allowing you to enjoy tranquil waterside cycling and shaded forest trails within the same tour.
What are the typical distances and durations for touring cycling routes in this area?
Route distances vary significantly, from shorter rides to extended tours. For instance, the Steep circuit north of Saverne is about 44.6 km (27.7 miles) and takes around 3 hours 12 minutes, while the Bruche Canal – Canal de la Bruche loop from Saverne is a much longer 104.1 km (64.7 miles) ride.
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