4.4
(5)
29
riders
10
rides
Gravel biking around Härtsfeldsee offers diverse terrain within the Härtsfeld region of Germany. The area features the Härtsfeldsee itself, surrounded by varied landscapes including forests and open areas. Routes often combine paved and unpaved surfaces, providing a mix of riding experiences. Historical elements like Neresheim Abbey and Katzenstein Castle are often visible from the trails, adding to the scenic appeal.
Last updated: July 13, 2026
1
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.

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4.0
(1)
5
riders
77.0km
04:51
810m
810m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
37.6km
02:19
370m
370m
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 Härtsfeldsee
Magnificent view of the vast monastery complex
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Beautiful view towards Bollstadt and the Kesseltal valley
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The 1,000 mm gauge Härtsfeld Railway from Neresheim to Dillingen/Donau served the Härtsfeld on the eastern Swabian Jura in Baden-Württemberg from 1901 until its closure in 1972. After the closure of the "Schättere", the track facilities were completely dismantled and the vehicles scrapped. In 1984, the "Freundeskreis Schättere" was formed, which emerged a year later as the Härtsfeld-Museumsbahn e.V. (HMB). Original vehicles and some identically constructed vehicles were purchased and restored, tracks and switches were laid, and a museum was established in the former Neresheim station building. On May 16, 1996, the first groundbreaking ceremony for the reconstruction of the first, 3 km long section took place, which was then officially opened on October 20, 2001, on the hundredth birthday of the railway. A second section of approx. 2.6 km to the Härtsfeldsee was built between 2007 and 2021 and officially opened on August 1, 2021. The third section to Dischingen is yet to be built. From June 20 - 21, 2026, the 1,000 mm gauge tank locomotive "RUR"🚂 from the Selfkantbahn narrow-gauge railway museum in Gangelt-Schierwaldenrath was a guest. It was built in 1899 by the Henschel & Sohn locomotive factory in Kassel for the Dürener Dampfstraßenbahn (Düren Steam Tramway). It is one of the few surviving tank steam locomotives developed for inner-city tram operation. After its later conversion to a steam storage locomotive, it served as a works locomotive in the Schoeller paper mill in Birkesdorf before coming to the Selfkantbahn in 1972 as a non-operational exhibit. Its handover to the partner company KLEINBAAN Service of the Dutch narrow-gauge enthusiast Wim Pater in 2013 enabled its complete restoration to its original condition as a fired wet steam locomotive. The RUR is the only surviving steam locomotive of the formerly eight 1,000 mm gauge narrow-gauge railways in the Rhenish Bay and, at 126 years old, is the oldest operational steam locomotive in the Rhineland. It is based at the Selfkantbahn and runs on selected operating days and makes guest appearances at other 1,000 mm gauge museum railways.
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The magnificent mass limestone rocks and the consistently gentle gradient make the dry valleys popular destinations.
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Unfortunately, I did not find a Camino de Santiago stamp post in the abbey. However, the abbey is an absolute must on the route. Worth seeing!
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Located directly on the forecourt of the castle
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The Italian ice cream van on the square has great tasty ice cream. Is worth a tour on its own
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There are 10 dedicated traffic-free gravel bike trails around Härtsfeldsee featured in this guide. These routes offer a mix of moderate and difficult options, ensuring there's something for various skill levels.
The Härtsfeldsee region offers diverse terrain for gravel biking. You can expect a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, including forest paths, gravel roads, and some sections that might be more challenging. The routes often lead through expansive forests and heathland, providing a varied riding experience.
While many routes in this guide are rated moderate to difficult, the Härtsfeldsee area itself is known for family-friendly amenities like a playground and water play equipment. For a moderate gravel ride that offers scenic views and is a good option for families with some biking experience, consider the View of Neresheim Abbey – Western shore of the Härtsfeldsee loop from Neresheim. Always check the route details for specific difficulty and length to ensure it suits your family's capabilities.
Yes, many of the natural trails and forest paths around Härtsfeldsee are suitable for cycling with dogs, provided they are well-behaved and kept on a leash where necessary. The region's natural landscapes, including forests and open areas, offer plenty of space. Always be mindful of other trail users and local regulations regarding dogs in nature reserves or specific areas.
The Härtsfeldsee region is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can enjoy views of the Härtsfeldsee itself, which features two islands serving as breeding grounds for animals. Routes often pass through scenic forests and heathland. For historical landmarks, you might encounter sights like Neresheim Abbey or Katzenstein Castle. The Western shore of the Härtsfeldsee – Seehaus Härtsfeldsee loop from Burg Katzenstein offers a chance to explore near Burg Katzenstein.
The Härtsfeldsee region is enjoyable for gravel biking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer, making early morning or late afternoon rides ideal. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially icy or muddy conditions on unpaved sections.
Yes, many of the gravel bike trails in this guide are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Ruins of Niederhaus Castle – Ofnethöhlen near Holheim loop from Dischingen is a challenging circular tour that explores historical sites and natural caves.
Parking is generally available at various points around Härtsfeldsee and in nearby towns like Neresheim or Dischingen. The Härtsfeldsee itself is a popular local recreation area, so you'll likely find designated parking facilities there. Always check local signage for specific parking regulations and fees.
The Härtsfeldsee region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the trails, the diverse landscapes, and the opportunity to combine cycling with exploring historical sites and natural beauty.
Absolutely. The Härtsfeldsee region offers several challenging gravel routes for experienced riders. For instance, the Forest Pond in Geopark Ries – Dossinger Valley loop from Neresheim is a difficult, longer route that provides a significant elevation gain and a rewarding experience for those seeking a tougher ride.
Yes, the Härtsfeldsee area is equipped with amenities for visitors. There is a gastronomy establishment directly at the Härtsfeldsee. Additionally, the nearby towns of Neresheim and Dischingen offer various cafes, restaurants, and pubs where you can refuel after your ride.
While the Härtsfeldsee region is best explored by car for direct access to trailheads, public transport options exist to reach nearby towns like Neresheim or Dischingen. From there, you might need to cycle a short distance to reach specific trail starting points. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for connections within the Härtsfeld region.


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