The best traffic-free bike rides around Wallerstein
4.8
(23)
50
riders
10
rides
Gravel biking around Wallerstein offers routes through the unique Nördlinger Ries, a 25-kilometer wide meteorite impact crater. This region features a varied topography, including open agricultural fields, gently rolling hills, and serene woodlands. Riders can expect a mix of unpaved roads and tracks, often following picturesque river valleys like the Wörnitz. The landscape provides diverse terrain suitable for gravel cycling, from easier paths to more challenging climbs.
Best no traffic gravel bike trails around Wallerstein
- The most popular no traffic…
Last updated: July 11, 2026
5.0
(2)
10
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(1)
3
riders
32.3km
02:11
400m
400m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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2.0
(1)
8
riders
44.1km
02:39
360m
360m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(1)
2
riders
36.5km
02:25
470m
470m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
33.7km
02:21
420m
420m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Popular around Wallerstein
Tips from the Community
Beautiful lake. If you're just planning a short stop on your bike tour, there's a restaurant here with a lake view.
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The Baldinger Tor in Nördlingen is one of the five historical city gates and was first mentioned in 1376. It secured the road towards Würzburg and Frankfurt am Main and was part of the medieval city fortifications. The barbican was completed in 1406 by Master Wenzeslaus, and in 1430 a reconstruction took place under the direction of stonemason Conrad Stenglin. Originally, the gate structure resembled the Berger Tor: a rectangular main gate building with an almost square barbican. The tower was five stories high and had a round superstructure with a gun embrasure and a tent roof. During the Thirty Years' War, the gate was damaged, and in 1703 the tower unexpectedly collapsed – presumably due to insufficient repairs. Five people lost their lives.
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The "Daniel" church tower of St. George's Church in Nördlingen is the town's most visible landmark and a masterpiece of late Gothic architecture. At 90 meters high, the tower rises above the town's rooftops and offers a spectacular panoramic view of the Nördlinger Ries region – on a clear day, up to 99 church towers can be seen. Construction began in 1454 and was completed in 1490 with a temporary roof. After a lightning strike in 1537, the tower received its characteristic Italian dome. Originally known as the "Wendelstein," it was renamed "Daniel" in the 19th century – an allusion to the biblical figure Daniel, who was elevated to the rank of prince. The Daniel tower is particularly vividly brought to life by a centuries-old tradition: Every evening between 10 p.m. and midnight, the watchman calls out "So G'sell, so!" from the tower room. – a greeting that dates back to a legend from 1440 in which a runaway sow helped uncover a treason and save the city from an attack. Those who climb the more than 350 steps to the viewing platform will be rewarded not only with an impressive panorama but also with a sense of the history and soul of this unique city.
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The Berger Gate in Nördlingen is one of the five remaining city gates and once secured the road toward Ulm. It was built between 1435 and 1436 by the master builder Hans Rews. The upper tower floors were later expanded between 1574 and 1575 by Wolfgang and Caspar Waldberger, giving the gate its present appearance. Particularly noteworthy is the coffered barrel vault of the gate passage – an architectural detail that gives the gate its distinctive character. A cannonball from the Thirty Years' War remains embedded in the masonry, commemorating the siege of Nördlingen in 1634.
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The Deininger Gate is one of Nördlingen's historic city gates and a striking example of late medieval defensive architecture. It once served as an architectural model for the neighboring Löpsinger Gate and is notable for its slender construction and curved roof. Unlike the city's other gate towers, the Deininger Gate lacked a gun platform, making it particularly vulnerable to enemy attacks. A memorial plaque commemorates the dramatic events of 1634, when imperial soldiers entered the tower during the Battle of Nördlingen. The defenders were only able to expel them by setting fire to the tower itself. The current structure, with its twelve round-arched windows, dates from the final years of the Thirty Years' War, around 1645/1646. The gate is an impressive testament to Nördlingen's eventful history and a popular stop on the historical city tour.
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A very well-preserved castle complex. Worth seeing!
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A wonderful lake with many recreational opportunities. A beautiful bike path around the lake.
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Beautiful square in the center of the old town
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available around Wallerstein?
There are 12 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Wallerstein listed in this guide, offering a variety of experiences within the unique Nördlinger Ries landscape. These routes are designed to keep you away from busy roads, allowing for a peaceful ride.
What kind of terrain can I expect on no-traffic gravel routes in the Nördlinger Ries?
The Nördlinger Ries, a 25-kilometer wide meteorite impact crater, offers a diverse and fascinating terrain. You can expect a mix of open agricultural fields, gently rolling hills, and serene woodlands. The routes often feature well-maintained forestry and service roads, providing a varied gravel biking experience with both paved and unpaved sections. This unique geological setting, recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark, ensures a constantly changing and visually stimulating ride.
Are there any easy no-traffic gravel routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, while many routes in the region are rated moderate to difficult, there is at least one easy no-traffic gravel route available. For a moderate option that still offers a great experience, consider the Lake Hahnenkamm – Hahnenkammsee loop from Deiningen, which is 49.9 km long and has an elevation gain of 303 meters. This route provides a good balance for those looking for a less strenuous ride.
What are some natural features or landmarks I can see along these no-traffic gravel trails?
Riding through the Nördlinger Ries means traversing an area of immense scientific interest. You'll encounter geotopes and geological features explaining the crater's formation. Many routes also pass by picturesque lakes such as Ulrichsweiher or Schmähinger Weiher. The region also features several caves, including the Great and Small Ofnet Caves, which add an archaeological dimension to your ride.
Can I find routes that pass through historical towns or past cultural sights?
Absolutely. Many gravel routes in the region are designed to connect natural beauty with cultural heritage. For example, the Nördlingen Market Square – View of the Nördlinger Ries loop from Nördlingen starts in the historic town of Nördlingen, known for its medieval city wall. Wallerstein itself boasts historical points of interest such as Wallerstein Schloss and the Pestsäeule (Plague Column), which you might encounter on local routes.
Are there any circular no-traffic gravel routes available?
Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel routes around Wallerstein are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the challenging Harburg Castle – Stone Bridge Harburg loop from Nördlingen, which covers 44.1 km with 363 meters of elevation gain, offering a full circular experience.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Wallerstein to avoid traffic?
The Nördlinger Ries is beautiful year-round, but for optimal gravel biking with minimal traffic, spring and autumn are often ideal. The weather is generally milder, and the natural scenery is vibrant. While the routes are selected for their low-traffic nature, these seasons also tend to have fewer general tourists compared to peak summer, enhancing the quiet experience.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the no-traffic routes in Wallerstein?
The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience around Wallerstein, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique geological landscape of the Nördlinger Ries, the sense of remoteness on the quiet paths, and the blend of natural beauty with historical sights. The well-maintained unpaved roads and the opportunity to explore a UNESCO Global Geopark are frequently highlighted.
Are there any challenging no-traffic gravel routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, there are several difficult no-traffic routes. The Seven Springs – Lake Hahnenkamm loop from Oettingen in Bayern is a demanding option, spanning 36.5 km with 475 meters of elevation gain, offering a rigorous ride through varied terrain.
Is public transport accessible for reaching these no-traffic gravel trails?
While specific public transport connections directly to every trailhead might vary, the region around Wallerstein and Nördlingen is generally well-integrated into the broader Donau-Ries cycling network. Nördlingen, a key town within the crater, often serves as a good starting point and is accessible by regional train services, which typically allow bikes. From there, you can connect to many of the no-traffic routes.
Where can I park my car when starting a no-traffic gravel bike tour in Wallerstein?
Wallerstein and nearby towns like Nördlingen offer various parking options, often near town centers or designated trailheads. For example, when starting a tour like the Reimlinger Gate (Reimlinger Tor), Nördlingen – Blankenstein (664 m) loop from Nördlingen, you can typically find parking within Nördlingen itself, allowing easy access to the car-free routes.
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