4.7
(255)
3,333
riders
10
rides
No traffic road cycling routes around Helsa traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills, open fields, and forested areas, offering varied terrain for road cyclists. The region features a network of quiet roads and dedicated cycle paths that connect local towns and natural areas. Elevation gains are generally moderate, with several routes including short climbs and descents. The area provides opportunities for cycling near bodies of water such as the Steinertsee and local fish ponds.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
17
riders
13.5km
00:36
80m
80m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
3.5
(2)
14
riders
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.

Sign up for free
13
riders
15.4km
00:38
30m
30m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
15
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.0
(1)
9
riders
20.1km
00:55
130m
130m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
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.
1
0
The old town is entirely dedicated to Frau Holle. Apart from this peculiarity, it is actually no more beautiful than the neighboring towns (e.g. Helsa).
0
0
Old Town Hall from 1665
0
0
The settlement “Lichtenowe” was first mentioned in 1289
1
0
Originally, six settlements lay within the present-day town limits of Lichtenau. Between 1283 and 1289, at the instigation of the first Hessian Landgrave, Henry I, a fortified square was built at the intersection of the old trade routes "Leipziger Straße" and "Sälzerstraße." This fortified square was intended not only to protect these roads but also to secure access to the state capital, Kassel, and relieve pressure on the border fortress of Reichenbach. The planned settlement of "Lichtenowe" was first documented as a "new town" on March 25, 1289. From the outset, it possessed town rights and its own jurisdiction. After the town's founding, the six surrounding settlements were abandoned by their inhabitants and became deserted; only the field names survived. Lichtenau was secured by a circular wall with a ditch and rampart. With the relocation of the official seat from Reichenbach Castle to the town, Lichtenau became the main town of the Hessian office now called “Amt Lichtenau” in 1490.
2
0
The beautiful town hall is in He-Li and not in Eschwege.
0
0
There are 9 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Helsa listed in this guide. These routes offer a variety of distances and difficulty levels for a peaceful cycling experience.
The routes around Helsa cater to various skill levels. You'll find 3 easy routes perfect for beginners or a relaxed ride, 4 moderate routes for those seeking a bit more challenge, and 2 difficult routes for experienced cyclists looking for a demanding ride.
Yes, several routes are suitable for families. For an easy and relatively short option, consider the St. Michael's Chapel, Witzenhausen – Herkules-Wartburg Cycle Path loop from Hundelshausen, which is just over 13 km long with minimal elevation gain. Another easy choice is the Geese Fountain, Kaufungen – Helleberg Inn loop from Kaufungen, spanning about 20 km.
While enjoying the quiet roads, you can discover various points of interest. Highlights include the Königsalm, Nieste, a popular restaurant, and the Bilstein Mountain Inn. For scenic views, the Bilstein Tower and Zum Bilstein Lodge offer great panoramas. You might also encounter natural features like Michelskopf Lake.
Yes, all the routes listed in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end your ride at the same point. Examples include the Steinertsee Park – Lake Steinert loop from Niestetal and the Helsa Fish Ponds – Hessisch Lichtenau Town Center loop from Helsa.
Spring, summer, and early autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling around Helsa, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. These seasons are ideal for enjoying the region's natural beauty without traffic.
While specific cafes directly on every traffic-free section might vary, many routes pass through or near towns and villages where you can find places to stop. For example, the Geese Fountain, Kaufungen – Helleberg Inn loop from Kaufungen passes by the Helleberg Inn, and the Königsalm, Nieste is a notable restaurant in the area.
The komoot community highly rates the road cycling experience around Helsa, with an average score of 4.8 stars from 106 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the routes and the scenic landscapes.
The routes vary in length. The shortest easy routes, like the St. Michael's Chapel, Witzenhausen – Herkules-Wartburg Cycle Path loop from Hundelshausen, are around 13.5 km. Longer moderate routes, such as the Helsa Fish Ponds – Hessisch Lichtenau Town Center loop from Helsa, extend to nearly 23 km.
Many of the circular routes start from towns or villages like Niestetal, Helsa, Hundelshausen, or Kaufungen, where public parking options are generally available. It's advisable to check local parking facilities at your chosen starting point before your ride.


Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.