4.5
(221)
2,029
riders
159
rides
Touring cycling around Franken offers a diverse landscape characterized by rolling hills, extensive forests, and meandering rivers. The region features several low mountain ranges, including the Franconian Jura, Fichtel Mountains, and Rhön Mountains, providing varied terrain. River valleys, such as those of the Main, Regnitz, and Tauber, offer flatter routes, often passing through vineyards and historical towns. This topography supports a network of cycling paths suitable for different skill levels.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
1.0
(1)
25
riders
37.4km
03:01
630m
630m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
riders
20.1km
01:14
170m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.8
(5)
11
riders
35.2km
02:12
280m
280m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
8
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
22.8km
01:44
230m
230m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Typical village of Sundgau with its half-timbered houses which are becoming rare these days.
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Small regional museum in a restored farmhouse in the centre of Oltingue. The museum shows the daily life of farmers in the Sundgau in the 19th and early 20th century. The collection includes utensils, tools, religious objects and furniture, spread over several rooms and an old barn. The original faience stove, a ‘Chunscht’ bench and a baroque outdoor pulpit are striking. Visits are possible from March to November, usually on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays from 15:00 to 18:00.
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Table with benches. It's right next to the country road, but there was little traffic at the time of our visit.
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Altkirch forms a hub for cycling, where various routes converge. The route down from Folgensbourg. From the valley of Oltingen / Waldighoffen. Coming from Mulhouse / Illfurth as well as heading towards Dannemarie / Belfort. And finally from the north from the Vosges from the Cernay / Thann area. Furthermore, the Rhine-Rhone Canal passes nearby. Altkirch itself, situated on a hill, has retained the charm of many somewhat forgotten provincial towns with a past of industrialization. There are a few cafes as well as the view over the plain towards the Vosges.
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The house and garden are decorated with curious figures and objects. Worth seeing! 👍😂
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At the end of the Roman path there is a small chapel at the crossroads.
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This old Roman road, now converted into a cycle path, is a delight for people who use it. It is also the ideal place to observe the three surrounding mountain ranges: the Vosges, the Black Forest and the Jura.
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Franken offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with nearly 170 routes documented on komoot. These routes cater to different skill levels, including 22 easy, 91 moderate, and 53 difficult options.
Franken's landscape is quite diverse. You'll find routes traversing rolling hills, lush forests, and meandering river valleys like those of the Main, Regnitz, and Tauber. Some areas, particularly in the low mountain ranges such as the Franconian Jura or Fichtel Mountains, present more challenging ascents, while river valleys offer flatter, more leisurely rides. The region is also known for unique karst landscapes and rock formations in areas like Franconian Switzerland.
Yes, Franken offers several routes suitable for families, especially those following river valleys which tend to be flatter. While specific family-friendly routes are not detailed here, you can find 22 easy routes on komoot that are generally well-suited for a relaxed family outing. Look for paths along the Main or Regnitz rivers for gentler terrain.
Franken is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can explore dramatic karst landscapes and extensive cave systems in Franconian Switzerland, or enjoy the picturesque rock formations and forests of the Altmühltal Nature Park. Highlights include the Dwarves' Grotto, the ancient Le Gros Chêne de Sondersdorf, and scenic viewpoints like Loechle Rock. Many routes also pass through charming villages and past historical castles.
The touring cycling routes in Franken are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 200 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from tranquil river paths to more challenging hilly sections, and the opportunity to combine physical activity with cultural exploration of historical towns and natural monuments.
Yes, many routes in Franken are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the moderate Pretty village center 🏘 – Roman road loop from Hausgauen is a popular choice, winding through local villages. Another option is the Bike loop from Hundsbach, also of moderate difficulty.
The best time for touring cycling in Franken is generally from spring to autumn. Spring offers blooming landscapes, while summer provides warm weather for longer rides. Autumn is particularly scenic with vibrant fall foliage, especially in forested areas and along river valleys. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Absolutely. Franken's low mountain ranges, such as the Franconian Jura and Fichtel Mountains, offer routes with significant elevation gain. For instance, the The Ill in Hirsingue – Saint-Brice Chapel loop from Hausgauen is classified as difficult, covering 36.5 km with over 600 meters of ascent. Another challenging option is the Pretty village center 🏘 – Bridge and fountain in Oltingen loop from Jettingen, which spans nearly 55 km with similar elevation changes.
Franken is dotted with historical cities and towns, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as Bamberg and Würzburg. Cycling routes often pass by or near these cultural treasures. You can visit sites like Ferrette Castle or the Motte Castrale de Willer, offering opportunities to combine your ride with exploring the region's rich history.
Yes, Franken is part of several long-distance cycle paths, such as the Main Cycle Path, Romantic Road Cycle Path, and Five Rivers Cycle Path. While specific multi-day routes are not listed here, many of the individual komoot tours can be linked together for extended trips. For example, the Pretty village center 🏘 – Bridge and fountain in Oltingen loop from Jettingen is a longer day trip at nearly 55 km, which could be incorporated into a multi-day itinerary.
Many touring cycling routes in Franken pass through charming villages and towns, where you can find cafes, restaurants, and accommodation. Especially along popular river routes and near larger towns, amenities are readily available. The region is also known for its wine production in the Main River valleys, offering opportunities for culinary stops.


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