4.4
(613)
3,195
riders
166
rides
Gravel biking around Kaufungen features a landscape characterized by rolling hills, dense woodlands, and river valleys. The region incorporates sections of former railway lines, offering varied terrain for gravel cyclists. Elevations typically range from gentle ascents to more challenging climbs, particularly around features like Bilstein. This diverse topography provides a range of gravel biking experiences.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
4.4
(5)
45
riders
43.6km
02:29
530m
530m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
9
riders
33.4km
02:28
590m
590m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(4)
10
riders
27.8km
01:51
460m
460m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.7
(6)
20
riders
25.4km
01:33
300m
300m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
26
riders
57.2km
03:30
880m
880m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Kaufungen
Shelter at a prominent crossroads - nearby you have a beautiful view all the way to Lower Saxony
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next door a large hiking parking lot with many circular hiking trails
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The historic center of Kaufungen is characterized by well-preserved half-timbered houses and narrow alleys that reflect the medieval townscape. The old town center with small squares and historic buildings provides a vivid impression of the long settlement history.
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It is located directly at a crossroads.
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Beautiful cycle path along the former Söhrebahn route - unfortunately some of the joints have been washed out by rain
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Beautifully laid out cycle path along the former Söhrebahn - with interesting information boards about the history.
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Today we rode the Umschwang ⛰️ by bike 🚴🏻🚴🏾♀️. 😉😂 And that wasn't primarily due to the fact that we now ride e-bikes. The main reason was that many, many years ago, as simple occasional cyclists, we rode the 🚴🏾♀️ from Witzenhausen via Kleinalmerode and the Umschwang to Kassel. Then we rigorously avoided the route for decades because of the extremely unfriendly traffic (cars, trucks, motorcycles). Today, on June 21, 2025, we seized the opportunity. The road from Kleinalmerode via the Umschwang to Nieste has recently been closed for months, just before Nieste (see https://mobil.hessen.de/presse/l-3237-nieste-grossbaustelle-in-der-ortsdurchfahrt). However, with the 🚴🏾♀️ through the Niester Endschlagsiedlung, this was no problem at all. From Kleinalmerode onwards, we had the road, similar to a two-lane cycle path, to ourselves. We only encountered other cyclists who were just as happy about this experience as we were and who were truly enjoying the truly beautiful landscape in the most beautiful, and up to this point still pleasant, temperatures and weather. Everything to the right and left was lush green. And on the slopes, mostly to the right of the road, in many places everything was covered with wild, pink to purple flowering foxgloves. And the best part: once we reached the 450m elevation, the descent seemed to flow naturally. The sporty racing cyclists we encountered had a harder time—by design. We'll certainly be taking advantage of the road closure, which will last until at least the end of 2025, if not until next spring, at least once this summer and fall, and we can only recommend it to all other cyclists. Especially if they shy away from the otherwise prevalent traffic there like we do, and the devil shy away from holy water.🖐️
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Kaufungen offers a wide selection of gravel biking routes, with nearly 270 trails available. These routes cater to various skill levels, from moderate to difficult.
The gravel trails around Kaufungen range from moderate to difficult. You'll find 96 moderate routes, often featuring rolling hills and river valleys, and 162 difficult routes, which include more challenging climbs, particularly around features like Bilstein.
While many routes in Kaufungen are moderate to difficult, some sections of former railway lines offer smoother, less technical terrain that can be suitable for families. For example, parts of the Old Söhrebahn Railway Track – Helsa–Kassel Cycle Path loop from Lohfelden utilize these converted paths, providing a more accessible experience.
The region is characterized by dense woodlands, rolling hills, and scenic river valleys. Many routes, such as the Ibachtal Forest Path – Bilstein loop from Kaufungen, take you through extensive forested areas. You'll also encounter open views, especially from higher elevations.
Yes, several routes provide excellent viewpoints. The View of Kassel – View Above Echenstruth loop from Kaufungen is specifically known for its panoramic views, including vistas of Kassel. Hilly routes, particularly those around Bilstein, also offer elevated perspectives of the surrounding landscape.
The gravel biking routes in Kaufungen are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.4 stars from over 700 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the beauty of the forested sections, and the well-maintained paths that utilize former railway lines.
Yes, the region around Kaufungen is rich in history. You can find several castles and historical sites nearby. For example, the Bilstein – Folding Ruler Sculpture loop from Nieste passes by notable landmarks. You might also explore highlights like Windhausen Castle or the Sichelnstein Castle Ruins, which are accessible from various routes.
Yes, there are several lakes and water features in the vicinity of Kaufungen's gravel trails. You could plan a ride that includes a stop at BUGA Lake in Kassel or Michelskopf Lake. The The Cascades (Hirschhagen) – Helsa–Kassel Cycle Path loop from Kaufungen also features water elements.
Most of the gravel biking routes in Kaufungen are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the popular Old Söhrebahn Railway Track – Helsa–Kassel Cycle Path loop from Lohfelden and the challenging Ibachtal Forest Path – Bilstein loop from Kaufungen.
The region's rolling hills and woodlands are enjoyable throughout the warmer months, typically from spring to autumn. During these seasons, the weather is generally mild, and the trails are in good condition. Winter riding is possible, but some trails may be affected by snow or ice, especially in higher elevations.
While specific cafes directly on every trail are not guaranteed, many routes pass through or near villages and towns where you can find places to stop for refreshments. Planning your route with komoot allows you to identify points of interest, including cafes, along your chosen path.
The duration of trails varies significantly based on length and difficulty. For instance, a moderate route like the The Cascades (Hirschhagen) – Helsa–Kassel Cycle Path loop from Kaufungen, which is about 21.7 km, can take around 1 hour 22 minutes. Longer, more difficult routes, such as the 43.5 km Old Söhrebahn Railway Track – Helsa–Kassel Cycle Path loop from Lohfelden, typically require about 2 hours 28 minutes.


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