The best road cycling routes around Sonnenstein
4.7
(509)
4,917
riders
288
rides
Road cycling routes around Sonnenstein are characterized by a landscape of rolling hills, river valleys, and well-maintained country lanes. The region, situated in Germany, offers varied terrain suitable for road cyclists. Features include the Rhume River and its tributaries, alongside picturesque villages and open fields. The elevation profiles indicate moderate climbs, providing engaging challenges without reaching high mountain altitudes.
Best road cycling routes around Sonnenstein
- The most popular road cycling route is Well-Paved Country Lane – Rhume River loop from…
Last updated: September 28, 2026
4.6
(43)
129
riders
52.1km
02:14
360m
360m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.7
(9)
67
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(6)
28
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
13
riders
72.0km
03:23
840m
840m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
13
riders
31.9km
01:30
140m
140m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
The Bleicherode–Herzberg railway line was a 41 km long, single-track, non-electrified branch line that served the eastern Eichsfeld and the Ohm Mountains. It connected the Halle–Hann. Münden railway line near Bleicherode with the South Harz line in Herzberg am Harz. It was mainly used for freight transport from several former potash mines, most recently in Bischofferode, and to a former lignite power plant in Rhumspringe. On the Lower Saxony side, the line has been almost completely converted into a cycle path. However, a section is missing in Rhumspringe, as two bridges were demolished beforehand, and the section between the Hilkerode halt and Zwinge station was also not converted due to a parallel field path. Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bahnstrecke_Bleicherode%E2%80%93Herzberg
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Most of the bridges could be used for the cycle path, so cyclists and hikers have a green route with little gradient available. Only in Rhumspringe does the official route lead through the town – the most beautiful, but undeveloped viaduct on the route is left to one side.
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Smoothly paved by autumn 2025 – after decades of potholed and rough surfaces, it's finally a pleasure to cycle on this quiet side road. The southern section is called Eiskeller (Ice Cellar) because it's always a bit colder there – and a bit more icy in winter.
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Not much of the castle has been preserved, but the tower stump is well lit in the evenings and can be seen from far above the district.
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Highly recommended...delicious cake, just right for the climb to the dam and further to Clausthal-Zellerfeld.
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The old castle on the mountain spur between the Sösetal and Lerbachtal secured the ascent into the Harz Mountains. By 1100 AD, Osterode was already a "flourishing place". We can see this from the chronicle of the St. Peter's Monastery in Erfurt, which mentions the destruction of the "villa opulentissima" in the dispute between Henry the Lion and Margrave Albert the Bear in 1152. The castle was already standing at this time, and the remains of it remain one of the town's landmarks. It protected the first market settlement, which existed safely from the unpredictable Söse River, on the hill of today's Rollberg. Until 1486, the castle was the widow's residence of Duchess ELISABETH of Brunswick-Grubenhagen. In 1512, the castle was no longer inhabited; it was probably abandoned due to the threat of collapse as a result of the building ground giving way. With its 3.5-meter-thick walls, it had five floors. The preserved half-cylinder of the Romanesque residential tower, with a lower diameter of approx. 15 m and a remaining height of approx. 35 m, is one of the largest keep castles in Central Europe. Only a small part of the keep of the Old Castle has been preserved, and only the foundation walls of the other castle buildings. After extensive renovation, the tower ruins now tower over the beautiful town of Osterode am Harz. https://www.goettingerland.de/de/poi/historische-staette/alte-burg/50966953/
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Unfortunately, this beautiful path towards Breitenworbis is currently closed (July 25, 2024). The diversion is signposted, but has a barrier (!) on the descent and then actually continues on the bypass road that the cycle path should actually avoid. This is only for the fearless!🤯
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes around Sonnenstein?
The region features a landscape of rolling hills, picturesque river valleys, and well-maintained country lanes. You'll encounter varied terrain, including moderate climbs that offer engaging challenges without reaching high mountain altitudes.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Sonnenstein?
Yes, Sonnenstein offers options for different ability levels. Routes like the Well-Paved Country Lane – Rhume River loop from Zwinge are considered easy, providing smooth riding along country lanes. There are 3 easy routes in total, making them suitable for those looking for a less strenuous ride.
What are some notable landmarks or natural features I can see while road cycling in Sonnenstein?
Road cycling routes often follow the Rhume River valley, passing through historic areas like Duderstadt Old Town. You might also encounter the Rhumspringe Viaduct. For natural attractions, the area features several lakes such as Wiesenbek pond and Lower Crane Pond Bad Sachsa, and historical sites like the Scharzfels Castle Ruins.
How many road cycling routes are available in the Sonnenstein area?
There are 16 road cycling routes available around Sonnenstein, catering to various skill levels from easy to difficult.
What do other road cyclists think about the routes in Sonnenstein?
The routes in Sonnenstein are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 9 reviews. More than 110 road cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the scenic country lanes and river valleys.
Are there any challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders?
Yes, while many routes feature moderate climbs, there is 1 difficult route for those seeking a greater challenge. The Rhume River – Duderstadt Old Town loop from Bad Lauterberg im Harz Barbis, for example, covers over 82 km with more than 500 meters of elevation gain, offering a substantial ride.
Can I find circular road cycling routes in Sonnenstein?
Many of the road cycling routes in Sonnenstein are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Rhume River – Rhumspringe Viaduct loop from Sonnenstein and the Juessee Lake, Herzberg am Harz – Rhume River loop from Zwinge.
Are there places to stop for refreshments or accommodation along the routes?
While specific cafes or pubs are not detailed for every route, some routes pass by points of interest like the Country Inn Eifert, which could offer refreshment opportunities. For accommodation, the broader region, including areas like Ötztal in Austria, offers options for cyclists, though specific details for Sonnenstein itself would require local inquiry.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Sonnenstein?
The region's landscape of rolling hills and river valleys is generally pleasant for cycling during spring, summer, and early autumn. These seasons typically offer favorable weather conditions for enjoying the well-maintained country lanes and scenic views.
Are there any specific viewpoints along the road cycling routes?
While the routes themselves offer scenic views of river valleys and open fields, you can find dedicated viewpoints in the wider area, such as the Großer Knollen lookout tower, which provides panoramic vistas.
What is the longest road cycling route available in Sonnenstein?
The longest route is the Rhume River – Duderstadt Old Town loop from Bad Lauterberg im Harz Barbis, which spans 82.3 km and typically takes around 3 hours and 44 minutes to complete.
Are there any routes that pass by historical structures?
Yes, routes like the Rhume River – Duderstadt Old Town loop from Bad Lauterberg im Harz Barbis take you through the historic Duderstadt Old Town. Another route, the Country Inn Eifert – Old Railway Bridge loop from Zwinge, passes by an old railway bridge, adding a historical element to your ride.
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