The best traffic-free bike rides around Hemau
4.4
(168)
1,238
riders
71
rides
Gravel biking around Hemau offers varied terrain characterized by rolling hills, picturesque valleys, and dense forests. The region is situated near the Altmühltal Nature Park, providing access to a network of paths along river valleys and through woodlands. Cyclists can explore routes along the Schwarze Laber river and near the historic Ludwig-Danube-Main Canal, which contribute to the diverse landscape. These physical features create an ideal environment for no traffic gravel bike trails.
Best no traffic gravel bike trails around Hemau
…Last updated: July 11, 2026
4.7
(7)
42
riders
56.1km
03:53
460m
460m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(21)
95
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(14)
128
riders
85.6km
04:56
940m
940m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(6)
30
riders
51.1km
02:58
610m
610m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
11
riders
48.9km
03:00
570m
570m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Hemau
Tips from the Community
Unfortunately, the Old Weir is closed and cannot be crossed 🤷♂️
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Cycling through nature – that's what makes a bike tour so special.
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Hexenagger Castle A Dietricus von Haecsenakker is mentioned as early as 928 in a Regensburg document from the St. Emmeram Monastery; further information is scarce. In 1311, Gottfried Hexenacker became Bishop of Freising. He had studied in Bologna and served as dean of the cathedral there for many years. In 1314, he died of an infectious disease while on a tour of inspection in Vienna. In 1485, the castle passed through marriage to the Counts of Helfenstein, who sold the fortress to Duke William of Bavaria in 1528. He gave Hexenagger to the Muggenthal family as a fief. When the castle was destroyed in the Thirty Years' War, the Muggenthal family rebuilt it as a castle. In 1724, the castle was sold to the Bavarian Elector Charles Albert, as the Hexenagger line of the Muggenthal family had died out. In 1731, Elector Karl Albrecht donated the castle to his mistress, Maria Josepha Countess von Morawitzky. Her husband received the castle in 1738, and when he died in 1754, Anton von Kaiserstein became the new owner. Franz Joseph III von Kaiserstein (1792–1893) sold the castle in 1830 and acquired an estate in Sooß (Lower Austria) in exchange. From 1830 to 1951, Hexenagger Castle belonged to the noble family of Weidenbach. Otto Edler von Weidenbach bequeathed it to his niece Ilse von Kalckreuth, who married Wilhelm Leichtfuß, whose son, Eberhard Leichtfuß, owns it today. Hexenagger is a castle between the Renaissance and Baroque periods, built on the foundations of the old castle. In the lower areas and at the corners, ashlars and bossed ashlars, up to several meters high, are still visible on the castle building. The stump of the keep, made of bossed ashlar, is also said to have been preserved, but is not visible from the outside. The defensive character of the complex is best appreciated from the rear, where parts of the curtain wall and wall towers have been preserved. The tall, narrow chapel also still hints at the castle in its form; particularly interesting is the slender, slightly leaning bell tower, which appears to still sit on the older foundations of the medieval chapel tower. The main building itself, with its stepped gable and beautiful garden, presents a romantic sight. The castle is privately owned and not open to the public; the popular Christmas market was relocated to the Wolfgangshof estate near Zirndorf in Middle Franconia in 2023 due to complaints from local residents. Source: www.Burgenseite.de / www.wikipedia.de
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Sandersdorf Castle The present castle dates back to a medieval castle built by the Lords of Sandersdorf as Wittelsbach ministerials. The family has been documented since the 12th century. In 1420, the castle was plundered by Duke Henry of Bavaria-Landshut while he was at war with Duke Ludwig the Bearded of Bavaria-Ingolstadt. In 1425, the castle was granted to the Muggenthal family; the first owner of this family, Erhart von Muggendal, rebuilt it. Hans Heinrich von Muggenthal succeeded in keeping peasant revolts and the Reformation away from his domain. The Sandersdorf Castle Brewery was founded in 1550. The castle was destroyed during the Thirty Years' War; Albrecht Ulrich von Muggenthal had it rebuilt as a four-winged castle by 1646. It retains this form to this day. In 1675, Dominikus de Bassus inherited Sandersdorf Castle, but he witnessed its destruction in 1703 during the War of the Spanish Succession. In May 1787, the castle was searched by Bavarian officials because it was considered an "Illuminati nest." Thomas de Bassus was a member of the Illuminati Order, founded in Ingolstadt by Adam Weishaupt in 1776; his castle was a meeting place for many of the secret society's meetings. Numerous secret documents were confiscated during the search. Around 1900, the castle was partially renovated and refurbished under the direction of the Munich architect Gabriel von Seidl. In 2008, the castle was sold by Margarethe Baroness de Bassus, along with the forest lands, to the Wittelsbach Equalization Fund. In March 2022, the castle was sold to Dr. Horst-Florian Jaeck. Parts of it are to be opened to the public. The richly structured four-winged building complex was built on medieval foundations in the 16th century, rebuilt after destruction in the 17th and 18th centuries, and remodeled in the 19th century. The high main wing faces east; it has high stepped gables on its narrow sides and three oriels with gabled tops on the wide sides facing the valley, in front of which is a kind of moat with two octagonal corner turrets. The lower castle wings to the north and south face west. The castle chapel of St. Joseph, with its octagonal domed tower, is located in the inner courtyard. Source: www.wikipedia.de
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Supermarket directly on the cycle path invites thirsty (and hungry) cyclists to refuel
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Riedenburg offers a great opening as you cycle down the serpentines near Prunn and head toward the Altmühl River. The castle overlooking the town and the Altmühl River are a great incentive to explore the area by bike.
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A delightful little place with a new highlight: Cafe/Bistro Kulturschmiede. French coziness and hospitality with homemade cakes, coffee, and snacks. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available around Hemau?
There are over 80 traffic-free routes around Hemau that are perfect for gravel biking. These routes vary in difficulty, offering options for both moderate and more challenging rides through the region's diverse landscapes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails near Hemau?
The Hemau region offers a fantastic mix of terrain for gravel biking. You'll find routes traversing dense woodlands, open fields, and picturesque valleys. Many trails follow riverbanks, such as those along the Schwarze Laber, providing a mix of flat sections and rolling hills, especially as you approach the Altmühltal Nature Park.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic gravel routes in Hemau?
While many routes offer varied terrain, some sections along the Schwarze Laber river are generally flatter and more suitable for families. Look for routes with lower elevation gain and shorter distances. The region's focus on traffic-free paths inherently makes many options safer for family outings.
Can I find circular gravel bike routes around Hemau?
Yes, many of the gravel bike routes around Hemau are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the Schwarze Laber Valley – Beratzhausen Railway Bridge loop from Hemau, which offers a moderate challenge over approximately 37 km.
What natural features or viewpoints can I expect to see on these trails?
The routes often pass through the scenic Altmühltal Nature Park and along the Schwarze Laber river. You might encounter stunning viewpoints like the View of Prunn Castle or ride near the impressive Danube Gorge (Weltenburg Narrows). The region is rich in natural monuments and offers diverse landscapes from river valleys to dense forests.
Are there any historical landmarks or attractions along the gravel routes?
Absolutely! Beyond natural beauty, you can explore historical sites. For instance, the Prunn Castle is a notable landmark. The historic old town of Hemau itself, with its medieval buildings, can be a charming stop. Routes like the View of Kallmünz Castle Ruins – Path Along the Vils River loop from Laaber offer glimpses of historical structures.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Hemau?
The diverse landscapes of Hemau make it suitable for gravel biking across multiple seasons. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Even in winter, some traffic-free routes can be enjoyable, though conditions may vary.
Are there any longer, more challenging no-traffic gravel routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, there are several difficult routes with significant elevation gain. The Heutal on the Wissinger Laber – View over Breitenbrunn loop from Hemau, for example, covers over 50 km with substantial climbing, offering a rewarding experience through varied terrain.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails around Hemau?
The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience around Hemau, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 170 ratings. Riders frequently praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the trails, the beautiful natural scenery, and the variety of terrain that makes for engaging rides.
Are there options for gravel biking routes that are less crowded?
Given the extensive network of over 80 traffic-free routes, it's generally easy to find less crowded options, especially outside of peak tourist times. Exploring routes that delve deeper into the Altmühltal Nature Park or along less-traveled sections of the Schwarze Laber can offer a more secluded experience.
Can I access these gravel trails using public transport?
While Hemau itself is well-connected, accessing specific trailheads directly by public transport might require some planning. It's advisable to check local bus or train schedules to see which routes best connect to your desired starting points for the gravel trails.
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