4.6
(661)
7,533
riders
27
rides
Road cycling around Thurnau offers a network of paths through green hills and forests, situated at the edge of the Franconian Switzerland-Veldenstein Forest Nature Park. The region features varied terrain, including routes along former railway lines that provide gentler gradients. Cyclists can find both paved roads and quiet routes, with options ranging from easy ascents to more challenging, hilly sections. This area provides diverse road cycling experiences across its landscape.
Last updated: August 21, 2026
4.8
(52)
354
riders
45.8km
01:58
370m
370m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.6
(7)
70
riders
29.8km
01:17
180m
180m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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4.3
(7)
58
riders
50.7km
02:16
490m
490m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.1
(11)
114
riders
49.3km
02:10
360m
360m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
5.0
(3)
30
riders
72.3km
03:09
630m
630m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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A piece of Positano in Thurnau: The ceramic work was designed by the Positano native Berto Antonicelli and crafted by „Ceramiche Casola“. As a gift from the partner town, it stands here for the friendship between Thurnau and Positano – Franconian pottery tradition meets Italian ceramic art.
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Behind the walls of Thurnau Castle lies a rich history. Several noble families expanded the original castle over centuries into a sprawling palace complex. Particularly beautiful: you can not only admire a castle here, but also discover many small details and traces of the past during your tour.
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The rock village of Freienfels is a picturesque district of the town of Hollfeld. The village is dominated by the imposing rock castle, which sits atop a dolomite cliff. It was originally built as a fortress in the 14th century. Today it is privately owned, but in the summer it serves as an atmospheric stage for the Franconian Theater Summer. There are currently plans to convert parts of the castle into a museum. The village is a popular starting point for hikes.
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Added to the collection: komoot.com/de-de/collection/3600632/-naturdenkmaeler-besondere-baeume-und-weitere-schaetze-der-natur
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Rock decorated with ceramics
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Enjoy the peace and quiet away from traffic
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A small, fine inn with its own beer and friendly service. We'll be back 😊
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There are over 25 road cycling routes around Thurnau, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists of all levels. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.8 stars from over 50 reviews.
The terrain around Thurnau is quite varied. You'll find routes that follow former railway lines, offering gentler gradients and partially paved surfaces. Other paths wind through picturesque green hills and forests, with options ranging from easy ascents to more challenging, hilly sections. Many routes provide scenic views towards the Franconian Forest and Fichtelgebirge.
The months of May and August are particularly popular for road cycling in Thurnau, offering generally favorable weather conditions. However, the region's green landscapes are enjoyable throughout the warmer seasons.
Yes, Thurnau offers several easy road cycling routes. For example, the View of Plassenburg Castle – Trebgast Lake loop from Thurnau is an easy 28.7-mile (46.3 km) route that provides a pleasant ride with beautiful scenery.
Absolutely. For those seeking a more demanding ride, there are routes with significant climbs and varied terrain. The Zum Lausbub Beer Garden – Busbach Climb loop from Tannfeld is a moderate 31.5-mile (50.7 km) path that includes a notable climb, offering a good challenge for experienced cyclists.
Many routes pass by significant landmarks and natural features. You can cycle past the historic Thurnau Castle, explore the unique rock formations of the Sanspareil Rock Garden, or enjoy views of Trebgast Bathing Lake. The region is also home to fascinating natural monuments like the Aeolus Rock and the Bear's Cave in the Sanspareil Rock Garden.
Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Thurnau are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the popular Thurnau Castle loop from Thurnau and the Thurnau Castle – Cycle Path Along the A73 loop from Thurnau.
Absolutely. The varied terrain and elevated sections often provide rewarding scenic viewpoints. Routes frequently offer vistas towards the Franconian Forest and Fichtelgebirge, and some even provide views of landmarks like Plassenburg Castle.
While road cycling routes are generally geared towards individual or group rides, some of the easier routes, particularly those following former railway lines with gentler gradients, could be suitable for families with older children who are comfortable with road cycling. Always check the route's difficulty and elevation profile before heading out.
Yes, Thurnau and its surrounding villages offer various opportunities for refreshment. You might find traditional beer gardens, cafes, or guesthouses along or near the routes. For instance, the Zum Lausbub Beer Garden – Busbach Climb loop from Tannfeld even has a beer garden in its name, indicating a potential stop.
One of the longer routes is the Thurnau Castle – Ascent to Schwingen loop from Thurnau, which spans 34 miles (54.8 km). This moderate route offers a good distance for those looking for a longer ride.


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