The best gravel rides around Schalkau
4.7
(15)
112
riders
15
rides
Gravel biking around Schalkau offers diverse terrain within the Thuringian Forest. The region features a mix of unpaved paths through mixed deciduous forests and varied topography. Cyclists can explore areas like the National Natural Monument "Green Belt Thuringia" and the Thuringian Slate Mountains, which present varied landscapes. The terrain includes forests, valleys, and hills, providing a range of experiences for gravel riders.
Best gravel bike trails around Schalkau
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Hofmann Ponds – Callenberg Castle…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
5.0
(1)
10
riders
17.8km
01:06
180m
180m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
12
riders
37.3km
02:27
440m
440m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4
riders
28.3km
01:51
470m
470m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
6
riders
28.7km
01:43
380m
380m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Schalkau
Tips from the Community
The old Fellbergbaude has seen better days, it is visibly decaying. In front, a snack bar is operated, the surroundings are appealing and tidy, as is the campsite with electricity connection. Probably one can no longer expect more nowadays, in "Ösiland" I have not yet seen such a location with such a history. 🤷♂️ Großhütte Fellberg - 762 m above sea level Built in 1902 as the first Großhütte for industrial production of griffels. Paths were created for the transport of griffels to Steinach, which today serve as forest and hiking trails and in winter as cross-country ski trails. After the end of griffels production, the building was used as a holiday camp and restaurant.
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Friedrichshöhe is situated on a high plateau in the Thuringian Slate Mountains, north of Eisfeld and southeast of Masserberg on the Rennsteig hiking trail. The village lies amidst mountain meadows, surrounded by forests at an altitude of 800 meters above sea level. It is accessible via a road leading to the B281 federal highway.
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Goldbergsee, a 145-hectare reservoir located between the districts of Neuses and Beiersdorf, is one of Coburg's most popular recreational areas. Originally conceived as a flood control basin, the lake has long since become a favorite destination for walks, hikes, bike rides, and relaxing breaks in nature. In the idyllic surroundings of Coburg, you'll enjoy beautiful views of the majestic Callenberg Castle, perched high on a hill overlooking the lake, and the Glender Wiesen bird sanctuary. Also worth a visit is the Rückerthaus, where the famous poet Friedrich Rückert once spent many happy hours. A highlight for hiking enthusiasts is the 14-kilometer "Coburg Sea" circular trail, which runs along Goldbergsee and offers breathtaking natural scenery. Source: https://www.coburg-rennsteig.de/poi/goldbergsee
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The town is undergoing a lot of modernization. There's a large Edeka supermarket nearby, but otherwise, there are few shopping options. The market is mostly just a parking lot, so the quality of the place is rather poor.
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3
A very pleasant bike path that's also wide enough. The views of the countryside are beautiful.
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Shortest route, from Steinheid to Augustental, it's constantly downhill 🚵♂️👍😉
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The Ebermannsmühle is located in the Steinachgrund, making it ideal for camping and exploring the local area. Access is no problem!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available around Schalkau?
Schalkau offers a diverse network of over 20 gravel bike trails. These routes cater to various skill levels, ranging from easy paths to more challenging rides through the Thuringian Forest and its varied topography.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike routes in Schalkau?
The terrain around Schalkau is characterized by a mix of unpaved paths through mixed deciduous forests, valleys, and hills. You'll encounter varied surfaces as you explore areas like the National Natural Monument "Green Belt Thuringia" and the Thuringian Slate Mountains.
Are there any easy gravel bike routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, there are routes suitable for beginners. While most routes are moderate, you can find easier options that allow you to enjoy the scenic landscapes without overly challenging climbs. For example, the region offers paths that are less demanding, perfect for a relaxed ride.
What are some notable landmarks or natural features I can see along the gravel trails?
Many gravel trails in the Schalkau region pass by significant natural and historical sites. You can explore the Werra Spring Fehrenbach, a natural highlight in the Thuringian Forest, or ride past historical sites like Callenberg Castle. The routes also traverse the "Green Belt Thuringia," a vibrant memorial landscape.
Are there any challenging gravel bike routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like the Werra Spring Fehrenbach – Werra Spring Hut loop from Sachsenbrunn offer significant elevation changes and varied surfaces over its 28.3 km distance, providing a demanding yet rewarding experience through the Thuringian Forest.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Schalkau?
May and June are particularly popular months for cycling in the Schalkau region due to favorable weather conditions. However, the Thuringian Forest offers beautiful scenery throughout spring, summer, and early autumn, making these seasons ideal for gravel biking.
Are there circular gravel bike routes available?
Yes, many of the gravel bike routes around Schalkau are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Hofmann Ponds – Callenberg Castle loop from Dörfles-Esbach, which is a 37.3 km moderate trail.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails in Schalkau?
The gravel biking routes around Schalkau are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 30 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the beautiful natural scenery of the Thuringian Forest, and the variety of routes available for different skill levels.
Can I find routes that lead to viewpoints or offer panoramic views?
Yes, the region offers several opportunities for expansive views. The Fellberg and the Bleßberg Observation Tower, though not directly on every gravel route, are known for providing panoramic vistas over the Thuringian Forest and into Franconia, and can often be incorporated into longer rides or visited nearby.
Are there any gravel routes that pass by lakes or water features?
While the region is primarily known for its forests and mountains, some routes may offer glimpses of water features. The Rosenau Swan Lake is a notable highlight in the broader area, and the Froschgrundsee is also mentioned as a location for bike rides, suggesting routes in its vicinity.
Where can I find parking for gravel biking in Schalkau?
While specific parking locations for each trail are not detailed here, Schalkau and its surrounding towns are generally well-equipped with public parking facilities. Many trailheads or starting points for routes, especially those near villages like Dörfles-Esbach or Friedrichshöhe, will have designated parking areas for visitors.
Are there any routes that explore the Thuringian Slate Mountains?
Yes, the gravel biking network around Schalkau extends into the Thuringian Slate Mountains. These routes offer a unique landscape characterized by diverse karst phenomena, such as those found along the GeoPath Bleßberghöhle, providing a distinct riding experience.
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