The best traffic-free bike rides around Herisau

Herisau offers a wide selection of traffic-free gravel bike trails, with over 50 routes available. These routes vary in difficulty, providing options for different skill levels to explore the beautiful hilly landscape of Appenzell Ausserrhoden.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience around Herisau, with an average score of 4.48 stars. Riders frequently praise the serene, traffic-free paths, the diverse terrain ranging from rolling hills to scenic river valleys, and the stunning views of the Alpstein massif and Lake Constance.

Yes, while many routes offer a challenge, there are easier options. For a relatively gentle ride, consider the Burgau – Espel Viewing Platform loop from Gossau. This route is rated as easy and provides a pleasant experience with less elevation gain, making it suitable for those new to gravel biking or looking for a relaxed outing.

Absolutely. Many of the no-traffic gravel routes around Herisau are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. These circular routes often take you through varied terrain, offering continuous scenic beauty. For example, the View of the Sitter Viaduct – Gübsensee West Dam loop from St. Gallen Bruggen is a challenging circular option that provides diverse landscapes.

The region around Herisau is rich in natural beauty and points of interest. Many routes offer panoramic views of the Alpstein massif, Säntis mountain range, and even Lake Constance. You might also encounter picturesque covered wooden bridges, such as those in Kubel or Hundwilertobel. For specific natural attractions, look out for highlights like the Wissbach Gorge or the Brudertobel Cave with Waterfall, which can be found near some of the trails.

Spring and autumn generally offer ideal conditions for gravel biking in Herisau. The weather is often pleasant, and the natural scenery is particularly vibrant. While the routes are designed to be traffic-free, these seasons tend to have fewer visitors than peak summer, ensuring an even more tranquil experience. Winter riding is possible, but some higher elevation or unpaved sections might be challenging due to snow or ice.

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, Herisau offers several demanding routes with significant elevation gain. The Appenzell Route is a difficult option spanning over 66 km with more than 1500 meters of ascent, taking you through the heart of the Appenzell region. Another challenging ride is the Schwellbrunn – Gübsensee West Dam loop, which features over 1000 meters of climbing.

Yes, the Herisau area is known for its beautiful natural gorges and waterfalls. Some gravel routes may bring you close to these natural wonders. You can explore highlights such as the Mühletöbeli Gorge Waterfall or the impressive Höchfall. These spots offer a refreshing break and stunning photo opportunities along your ride.

While the routes are designed to be traffic-free, many pass through or near charming villages and hamlets where you can find local bakeries, cafes, or restaurants. It's always a good idea to check your chosen route on komoot beforehand to identify potential refreshment stops, especially on longer rides, to ensure you stay energized.

Herisau is well-connected by public transport, making it convenient to access the starting points of many gravel trails. The town has a train station, and local bus services can take you to various points in the surrounding region. You can plan your journey to a suitable starting point, often allowing you to avoid driving and enjoy a truly car-free experience from start to finish.

The terrain around Herisau is wonderfully diverse. You can expect a mix of unpaved gravel paths, forest roads, and some paved sections connecting different areas. The region is characterized by its rolling hills, so you'll encounter both challenging ascents and rewarding descents. Some routes might even include more rugged segments, offering a true gravel biking adventure.