Freiburg im Breisgau, the full name, is a charming student city in the state of Baden-Württemberg, In South West Germany. Close to the border with France, at the foot of the Black Forest, it is perhaps the perfect base for exploring this cycling area. We are traveling for a few days and would be happy to take you on a tour of the (beautiful) roads around Freiburg. That there is plenty to enjoy is now clear. We take you on a beautiful bike route in Freiburg
Cycling around Freiburg at a glance
- Cycling city: Freiburg has more than 400 kilometres of cycle paths and lies at the foot of the Black Forest.
- Route from this story: about 45 kilometres to the west, through vineyards with views, with a few short, steep climbs.
- Climbing: the Schauinsland just behind the city is the best-known climb in the region.
- Close by: France (Alsace) and Switzerland are a short ride away.
- Best time: April to October. Freiburg is one of the sunniest cities in Germany.
Updated in October 2026 with the key facts and practical tips. The story below is our original article.
Safe haven
When we park the car at our hotel after a ride of almost six and a half hours, the sun is still shining brightly in the sky. It is mid-June and although officially it is still spring, it is a tropical day. From the cool air conditioning in the car, it feels like a warm sauna. Our hotel, the gasthaus Schiff, is strategically located along a main road, yet also close to the old city center. The theme of ‘boat, sea and harbor’ is subtly conveyed through the interior design. The hosts are friendly and the rooms are spacious enough. There is still a bit of a lack of good cycling facilities, but the location makes up for a lot of that.
Plenty of space for the bike
Freiburg is known as a bike-friendly city. With more than 400 kilometers of bike paths, it is a real biking paradise (even by Dutch standards). For our reconnaissance tour, we head west out of the city along the banks of the Dreisam river. At this time of day, around seven o’clock, the river is busy. Students, couples, commuters—everyone wants to be here now. So be careful, because the bike path is quite narrow and before you know it, you’re riding into the water. We head towards the sun and with the light breeze, it’s pure pleasure.
Vineyards with a view
We stop briefly by a stream to take some photos. We get a bit weird looks from the local people, but who cares, we’re having fun. During the 45-kilometer ride, I hear a little too often: ‘It’s really beautiful here.’ It also winds through the fields very nicely, and somehow it just invites you to take lots of photos.
France is close
Of course, the sun does a lot of good, but as soon as we head towards the French border, we drive among the vines. With the slowly setting sun and the peaks of the Vosges in the distance, it’s particularly beautiful to cycle here. Behind every corner hides a different view. The ridge we have to cross on the east side isn’t too steep. Perfect for a quick stop. In terms of content, it’s pure enjoyment here as well.
Down = up again
We descend towards the border, but end up on the provincial road. We go left and left quite quickly. The short, narrow and steep descent was a precursor to what lies ahead of us: a steep climb, where the Wahoo meter goes red. It’s a bit of a struggle at first, and if you’re not quite as fit, you might have to put one foot on the ground, but it’s totally worth it. Up top, you can enjoy all the best that Freiburg and the Black Forest have to offer.
When we head back into the city, it’s once again striking how inviting it is to drive here. Plenty of space for a bike is not just a promise. Exhausted and full of energy, we head back to the hotel. Not before we have arranged a pasta meal at the local pizzeria. That’s the icing on the cake.
Read also:
Cycling route in Freiburg – enjoy the ride on two wheels
Questions about cycling around Freiburg
How do you get there?
By car it is about six to seven hours from Utrecht. By train you go via Cologne or Mannheim, and your bike can travel on the ICE if you book a space.
Is Freiburg good for gravel too?
Yes. The Black Forest is full of forest and gravel roads, and the Gravel Rallye in the Black Forest is a well-known gravel event in the region.
More cycling regions in this state are on our page: Baden-Württemberg.
Questions & tips
Do you have any questions about this route, or have you been there yourself? Share them here. We read everything and usually respond within a few days.