The best cycling routes around Gräfenthal
4.5
(1268)
4,371
riders
327
rides
Touring cycling around Gräfenthal offers routes through varied terrain, characterized by rolling hills and river valleys. The region features historical elements such as former border traces and railway viaducts, alongside natural landscapes like the Thuringian Slate Mountains. Elevations on routes indicate a hilly environment, providing diverse cycling experiences.
Best touring cycling routes around Gräfenthal
- The most popular touring cycling route is Eisfelder Resting Place – Werra Spring Hut loop from Tettau, a 48.5 miles (78.0 km) trail that takes…
Last updated: August 19, 2026
4.4
(8)
78
riders
79.4km
06:11
1,000m
1,000m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(11)
43
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(18)
46
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
20
riders
35.7km
02:54
650m
650m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
2.0
(1)
17
riders
41.8km
03:18
560m
560m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Rest stop at the old Griffelschiefer slate quarry. Although the black rock has not been mined there for decades, the surreal landscapes of sharp edges and steps, the huge dumps of black slabs still bear witness to the work of generations of Spechtsbrunn residents. The rock was processed immediately on-site by the quarry workers in huts into raw griffels, then turned, ground, and packed in the village – home work primarily for the women and children of the place.
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Fork at the border stone. To the left, it goes uphill and only continues with MTB at the end of the village, to the right is preferable for road bikes.
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The exhibition in his hometown of Neuhaus am Rennweg is dedicated to Heinrich Geißler, one of the pioneers of experimental electrical science and vacuum technology in the second half of the 19th century. With the development of the "Geissler tube", a low-pressure gas discharge tube, Geißler laid the foundation for the development of fluorescent lamps and X-ray tubes. The exhibition is dedicated to the life and work of Heinrich Geißler (1814-1879), a pioneer of electrical science and vacuum technology. The building, erected around the end of the 18th century as a residential house for a glassblower family and today a listed monument, in which the museum has been housed since 2010, corresponds in form and size to the typical construction of the places in the Thuringian Slate Mountains, which Heinrich Geißler's birthplace would also likely have corresponded to.
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Relaxing and a joy with children
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Climate change sign
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With a little riding technique, this part of the Rennsteig is rideable 🚵♂️😉👍
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Rennsteig Cycle Route 👍
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Gräfenthal?
Gräfenthal offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 320 options available. These routes cater to different skill levels, from easy paths to challenging long-distance tours through the Thuringian Slate Mountains.
Are there touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Gräfenthal?
Yes, Gräfenthal has several touring cycling routes suitable for beginners. There are 29 easy routes, often featuring less elevation and shorter distances. A good option to start with is the View of Schmiedefeld – Thuringian Slate Mountains loop from Reichmannsdorf, which is an easy 11.1 km path.
What options are there for experienced touring cyclists looking for a challenge?
Experienced touring cyclists will find plenty of challenging routes in Gräfenthal, with 144 difficult tours available. These routes often feature significant elevation changes and longer distances. Consider the Cursdorf train station – Oberweißbach Mountain Railway loop from Piesau, a demanding 35.9 km route with notable climbs and views of the historic mountain railway.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes around Gräfenthal?
Many of the touring cycling routes in Gräfenthal are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Gräfenthal Railway Viaduct – Traces of the GDR Border loop from Schiefergebirge is a moderate 22 km circular route that explores historical elements of the region.
What kind of scenery can I expect on touring cycling routes in Gräfenthal?
The touring cycling routes in Gräfenthal offer diverse scenery, characterized by rolling hills, picturesque river valleys, and the natural beauty of the Thuringian Slate Mountains. You'll encounter historical elements like former border traces and impressive railway viaducts, providing a blend of natural and cultural landscapes.
What are some interesting landmarks or natural attractions to see along the routes?
Gräfenthal's routes pass by several interesting landmarks and natural attractions. You might encounter the Lehesten Slate Quarry Industrial Heritage Site, the unique Meurasteine Rock Formation, or the Schwarza Spring. Many routes also offer scenic viewpoints like Schneiderfelsen.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Gräfenthal?
The touring cycling routes in Gräfenthal are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the blend of natural landscapes and historical sites, and the well-maintained paths that cater to different skill levels.
Are there any long-distance touring cycling routes in the Gräfenthal region?
Yes, for those seeking longer rides, Gräfenthal offers several extensive touring cycling routes. The region's network includes routes that can be combined for longer distances, or you can tackle challenging tours like the Eisfelder Resting Place – Werra Spring Hut loop from Tettau, which spans 78 km and takes over 6 hours to complete.
Is Gräfenthal suitable for family-friendly touring cycling?
Gräfenthal offers a selection of easier routes that can be suitable for families, especially those with some cycling experience. Look for routes categorized as 'easy' which typically have less elevation and shorter distances, allowing for a more relaxed family outing. Always check the route details for specific suitability.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Gräfenthal?
The best time for touring cycling in Gräfenthal is generally from spring to autumn. During these seasons, the weather is typically mild, and the natural landscapes are at their most vibrant. Summer offers longer daylight hours, while spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage.
Are there routes that incorporate historical elements of the region?
Absolutely. Gräfenthal's history is woven into its landscape, and many touring cycling routes feature historical elements. You can explore former border traces, impressive railway viaducts, and other remnants of the region's past, offering a unique cultural dimension to your ride. The Former border – Tettautal Valley Cycle Path loop from Tettau is a prime example.
Most popular routes around Gräfenthal
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