The best traffic-free bike rides around Čertovo lake

Our guide features 9 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Čertovo Lake. While the broader Šumava National Park offers hundreds of kilometers of routes, these 9 have been specifically curated for a peaceful, car-free gravel biking experience. You'll find 2 moderate routes and 7 more challenging options, ensuring a suitable ride for various skill levels.

The trails primarily consist of forest roads, field paths, and dirt roads, offering that satisfying crunch of gravel under your tires. The region, part of the Bohemian Forest, is characterized by deep forests, rolling hills, and mountainous terrain. Expect varied surfaces, some with significant elevation gains, and occasionally even segments where you might need to dismount and push your bike, adding to the adventure.

Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel routes in this area are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Trifter Inn Schwellhäusl – Falkenstein Mountain Hut loop from Bayerisch Eisenstein offers a challenging 45 km ride, while the Trifter Inn Schwellhäusl – Up close to the Großer Regen loop from Bayerisch Eisenstein provides a moderate 17 km option.

The best time to visit for gravel biking is typically from late spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally milder, and the trails are free of snow and ice. The primeval spruce forests are particularly beautiful in spring with fresh growth and in autumn with vibrant colors. Winter riding is possible but requires appropriate gear and awareness of snow and ice conditions.

You'll be cycling through the stunning Bohemian Forest (Šumava National Park), which means encounters with unspoiled nature and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Many routes offer views of Čertovo Lake itself, a glacial lake surrounded by forests. You can also explore routes that pass close to Černé Jezero (Black Lake), another significant glacial lake, or offer dramatic scenery near the Čertova Stěna (Devil's Wall) rock formation.

While many routes in this guide are rated moderate to difficult due to elevation changes, the Trifter Inn Schwellhäusl – Up close to the Großer Regen loop from Bayerisch Eisenstein is a good starting point. It's a moderate 17 km ride with less elevation gain compared to others. The Šumava National Park generally offers a wide range of trails, so exploring options with lower elevation profiles will be key for beginners.

The region around Čertovo Lake, particularly areas like Bayerisch Eisenstein and Železná Ruda - Alžbětín, are accessible by public transport. Many routes start from these towns, making it feasible to reach the trailheads without a car. It's advisable to check local train and bus schedules, especially for services that accommodate bicycles, before planning your trip.

Parking is generally available in the towns and villages that serve as common starting points for these routes, such as Bayerisch Eisenstein and Železná Ruda - Alžbětín. Look for designated parking areas near trailheads or in the town centers. Always check local signage for any parking fees or restrictions.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the trails, the stunning natural beauty of the Bohemian Forest, and the challenging yet rewarding climbs that lead to incredible views. The feeling of being immersed in unspoiled nature is a recurring highlight.

While the trails themselves are often remote and traffic-free, you'll find opportunities for refreshments in the villages and towns that border the national park, such as Železná Ruda or Bayerisch Eisenstein. Some longer routes might pass by mountain huts or inns, like the Trifter Inn Schwellhäusl, where you can take a break. Always carry enough water and snacks, especially on longer rides, as services can be sparse between towns.

Šumava National Park has regulations in place to protect its natural environment. While general cycling on marked trails is usually permitted, access directly to the shore of Čertovo Lake itself might be restricted for bikes on the very last section of some routes. Always stick to marked paths and respect any signage regarding protected areas or wildlife. No specific biking permits are generally required for standard trail use, but it's always good to check the official national park website for the latest information.