The best cycling routes around Oberelz
4.6
(1169)
5,980
riders
438
rides
Touring cycling routes around Oberelz traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and volcanic maars. The region features varied terrain, including paths that utilize former railway lines, offering a mix of gentle gradients and more challenging ascents. Observation towers provide scenic viewpoints across the Eifel countryside. This area provides diverse cycling experiences for different skill levels.
Best touring cycling routes around Oberelz
- The most popular touring cycling route is Jungferweiher – Ulmener Maar Tunnel loop from Lirstal,…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
4.0
(7)
22
riders
20.1km
01:26
250m
250m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
21
riders
38.1km
03:10
570m
570m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
19
riders
37.8km
03:16
490m
490m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
17
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
16
riders
17.6km
01:04
120m
120m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The combination of the natural environment and the challenge for riders makes Hocheichen an important and popular section of the "Green Hell". 🌍❤️ The name "Hocheichen" comes from the striking oak trees that line the route, giving it a unique, natural atmosphere. 🌲🌿
0
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On asphalt through the forest, what more could you want? Fantastic.
0
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A must for motorsport fans, always worth a visit.
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A true paradise stretches out on the edge of the village of Ulmen on a plateau beneath the Steimelskopf, where a volcano once erupted with a tremendous bang, forming a deep crater with a maar lake, which now serves as a renowned bird sanctuary. The exact age of the Jungferweiher lake cannot be determined, but its morphological shape suggests it is several hundred thousand years old. In early modern times, the Lords of Ulmen used the lake as a fishpond for carp breeding, until it gradually silted up over time, and the residents of Ulmen harvested peat from the former maar for heating purposes. However, in 1942, the decision was made to flood the area again by damming the Ulmener Bach to secure the drinking water supply for the Cochem-Zell district. Today, the Jungferweiher lake, located at an altitude of 428 meters above sea level, covers an area of approximately 170,000 square meters with a depth of 0.8 meters. The pond, along with the Ulmener Maar, is protected for its rare flora and fauna. Many endangered species, such as the snipe and the meadow pipit, breed in the reed-rich banks, while ospreys have been observed hunting. Migratory birds such as cranes, teals, and great grey shrikes roost in the meadows near the Ulmener Jungferweiher every year. Therefore, a walk along the approximately 3-kilometer loop is a must, especially during the migration periods in spring and autumn. At the bird observatory on the western bank, you can observe the birds in their natural habitat. Nowadays, a wide variety of fish species thrive in the shallow waters of the Ulmener Weiher, which can be fished from a fishing pier on the southern bank. Swimming and other water sports are prohibited, however. Fishing permits are issued by the local municipal administration in Ulmen. Since 2023, the Ulmener Maar Tunnel has connected the Jungferweiher underground to the Ulmener Maar. A visit to the 126-metre-long tunnel is highly recommended!
7
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1 million years of geology. Worth putting your bike aside for a moment.
6
0
On the Elztal cycle path between Gunderath and Uersfeld, there is a very quiet rest area with a bench, picnic table and the "Schacht Bergkrone" climbing tower.
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Great area for e-bike riding was fun
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Oberelz?
There are over 440 touring cycling routes in the Oberelz region, offering a wide variety of experiences. These include 40 easy routes, 231 moderate routes, and 173 difficult routes, catering to all skill levels.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Oberelz?
Yes, Oberelz offers 40 easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. An example is the Bergkrone Mine Tunnel – Heilbachsee loop from Lirstal, which covers 17.6 km with minimal elevation gain.
What options are available for experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge?
For experienced touring cyclists, there are 173 difficult routes around Oberelz. A challenging option is the Eifel-Guck Observation Tower – Sabine Schmitz Corner loop from Lirstal, a 38.3 km path with significant elevation changes, offering panoramic views.
Can I find longer touring cycling routes around Oberelz?
Yes, many routes extend for longer distances. The Eifel-Guck Observation Tower – Sabine Schmitz Corner loop from Lirstal is a good example, stretching over 38 km and providing a substantial ride through the Eifel landscape.
What kind of scenery can I expect on touring cycling routes in Oberelz?
The touring cycling routes around Oberelz traverse a diverse landscape characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and unique volcanic maars. You'll also find paths utilizing former railway lines, offering a mix of gentle gradients and more challenging ascents, often leading to scenic viewpoints from observation towers.
Are there any interesting landmarks or natural attractions along the routes?
Yes, the region is rich in natural and historical sites. You can explore the Bergkrone Mine Tunnel, visit the The Rausch Waterfall, or enjoy views from the Boos Eifel Observation Tower. The volcanic Ulmener Maar and the Upper Castle of Ulmen are also notable attractions.
Are there circular touring cycling routes in Oberelz?
Many touring cycling routes in Oberelz are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Eifel-Guck Observation Tower – Sassen Observation Tower loop from Retterath, a 13.8 km circular trail.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy the most about cycling in Oberelz?
The touring cycling routes in Oberelz are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1,100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the scenic views from observation towers, and the well-maintained paths that cater to different skill levels.
When is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Oberelz?
The Eifel region, including Oberelz, is generally pleasant for cycling from spring through autumn. Spring offers blooming landscapes, while summer provides warmer weather. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, making it a particularly scenic time to explore the routes.
Are there any routes that pass by volcanic maars?
Yes, the region is known for its volcanic maars. The Jungferweiher – Ulmener Maar Tunnel loop from Lirstal passes by the scenic Ulmener Maar Tunnel and is close to the Ulmener Maar itself, offering a glimpse into the region's volcanic past.
Are there any routes suitable for families with children?
Routes with gentle gradients, such as those utilizing former railway lines, are often suitable for families. The easy routes, like the Lierstal Rest Area – Little Church in Lirstal loop from Retterath (12.2 km), are generally good options for family outings.
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