Part of Germany
Baden-Württemberg is the third state of Germany. It is located in the southwest of Germany, opposite the border with France. This region offers cyclists not only a beautiful landscape with challenging routes and great views, but also gravel bikers. The regions of Schwarzwald (Black Forest) and Kraichgau-Stromberg are particularly attractive for cyclists and gravel bikers who are looking for both a nice ride on the bike, a trip into the mountains or through the forest. But who also wants to see something more. Like the city of Heidelberg and its surroundings, or the bustling Freiburg!
Don’t forget that ‘Lake Constance’ or the Bodensee with the picturesque town of Friedrichshafen also belongs to Baden-Württemberg. This way you can also tick off a ‘lake‘ as well, if you wish. Note: The region around the lake is quite hilly.
For the climbers among us, the Black Forest (Schwarzwald) is a wonderful challenge. You have to have ridden the Feldberg at least once. For the gravel riders, you can, in a sense, travel from north to south via the ‘Naturpark Crossing’. Or you can go into the forests somewhere else, through the vineyards. All in all, cycling in Baden-Württemberg is highly recommended! Are you going on a cycling holiday to BaWu soon?
Why do you want to go on a cycling holiday in Baden-Württemberg?
Baden-Württemberg, in the southwest of Germany, is a versatile destination for cyclists and gravel bikers. The region offers an impressive landscape with rolling hills, dense forests, and challenging mountain climbs, such as the Feldberg in the Black Forest. Whether you explore the smooth roads on a race bike or choose the adventurous gravel trails in nature parks like the Kaiserstuhl area, Baden-Württemberg has something for every type of cyclist. The extensive network of well-maintained cycling routes, cyclist-friendly infrastructure, and the presence of specialized accommodations make it a worry-free place to cycle. Cities like Freiburg, a gateway to the Black Forest, combine excellent cycling facilities with a vibrant atmosphere.
During your trip you can enjoy culinary highlights such as the Schwarzwalderkirschtorte. A classic in our opinion. Also the local Maultaschen (a kind of ravioli, but cold) and local wines from the vineyards of Kraichgau-Stromberg or Kaiserstuhl. Historical cities like Heidelberg with its imposing castle and the UNESCO monastery in Maulbronn offer a nice stop that also enriches your trip in terms of culture. If you also want to challenge yourself? There are more DNA-rich tours in the region. In addition, the Deutschland Tour often passes through the region as well. For those who also want to run and swim, the IRONMAN 70.3 Kraichgau is a tip.
Baden-Württemberg also has its own thermal baths. So you can bathe in Baden-Baden after a day of sunbathing on your bike. Baden-Württemberg thus combines beautiful routes and the most beautiful German viewpoints with culture and gastronomy. In our opinion, it’s preferable to Baden-Württemberg than the neighboring Vosges Mountains. You can still see them very nicely when you’re on the Texas Pass.
Forget the Vosges. The Black Forest mountains are located at exactly the same latitude. It seems as if one has forgotten that there is more to the Earth besides the Grand Ballon and Planche des Belles Filles. Although we are not against the Vosges (how could you dare), the German Black Forest is at least as beautiful and a lot quieter. Add the German hospitality (we think that’s better) and the beautiful roads and voila!
The mountains in the Black Forest are similar to their French neighbor. Feldberg is a popular climb in the region, reaching 1277 meters. Just below the Grand Ballon. The Kandel is also a beautiful peak with 1241 meters. With an average ascent of 7.8% it is also a bit of a tough climb!
In addition, the region offers routes such as the ‘Texaspas’ between Oberbergen and Kiechlingsbergen, where you cycle through the wine region of Kaiserstuhl and enjoy amazing views. This route includes short, steep climbs with gradients of 10% or more, making it a challenging but rewarding experience.
For gravel bikers, the possibilities around Freiburg are virtually endless. The region offers a network of unpaved trails that meander through the heart of the Black Forest, from serene forest paths to challenging gravel roads along steep slopes and rivers. The Kaiserstuhl region, slightly west of Freiburg, combines vineyards with adventurous gravel routes and impressive views. Along the way, you can stop in traditional villages like Hinterzarten or Titisee-Neustadt for a cup of coffee or a hearty snack. This mix of pristine nature, challenging terrain, and charming culture makes the Black Forest and Freiburg a dream destination for both race bike and gravel bikers.
It seems the most logical thing to do is to bring your own bike to this region. Of course you can do that in the car, but you can also get there by train which is a great option. Sander went to Kraichgau by Deutsche Bahn (ICE + Regional) and it went absolutely fine! You can then take a hard-shell suitcase (max 125cm length) and everything works perfectly. It was no problem even on the bus.
Great location in Freiburg. You can rent a bike here for 2 days or more, starting at €50 per day. Nothing wrong with that and they have good brands.
In addition, you can also rent bikes through many bike hotels (often MTB or E-MTB). Check the website of your hotel (or look at our accommodations).
We have personally tried out a number of hotels, but we have also looked at and researched some other options. Here are some tips for a great cycling stay in the Baden-Württemberg region:
- Zum Storchen, near Freiburg, is the ideal hotel to explore the region. With a bike storage room, a host who likes to go for a ride and knowledge of the local trails, you’ll find peace and quiet here. Sauna after your ride? That’s a must! Good food? The restaurant has that covered. Stylish, modern rooms? That’s on the menu too! Book your stay via this link
- Sackmann Genusshotel: would you like to be closer to the gravel paths? Then you can find your bliss at the Sackmann Genusshotel. Not only for gravel riders, but also for MTB enthusiasts. There is also a lockable bike storage room here, you have a real ‘wellness experience’, there is a swimming pool, a real sun terrace, and the restaurant is a treat to your taste buds. An added bonus: you can even shower after check-out, so handy! Want to book this? Go to the hotel’s website
- Incidentally, you can find many accommodation options through Bett&Bike where you can always stay for a night, where you can leave your bike and where you are welcome as a cyclist.
MUST DO'S CLIMBS Baden-Württemberg
1. Schauinsland (Black Forest)
- Length: 11.5 km
Average rate of increase: 6,8%
Starting point: Horben (near Freiburg)
Description: This climb is a favorite among mountain bikers because of the constant incline and the breathtaking views over Freiburg and the Black Forest. The hairpin bends make for a challenging but rhythmic climb. - Length: 11.5 km
- Average growth rate: 6.8%
- Starting point: Horben (near Freiburg)
- Description: This climb is a favorite among mountain bikers because of the constant incline and breathtaking views of Freiburg and the Black Forest. The hairpin bends make for a challenging but rhythmic climb.
2. Kandel (Black Forest)
- Length: 11.8 km
Average rate of increase: 7,8%
Starting point: Waldkirch
Description: The Kandel is one of the toughest climbs in Baden-Württemberg. The steep sections and the spectacular view from the summit make it a must-ride for true climbers. The final section is particularly challenging, with sections above 12%. - Length: 11.8 km
- Average growth rate: 7.8%
- Starting point: Waldkirch
- Description: The Kandel is one of the toughest climbs in Baden-Württemberg. The steep sections and the spectacular view from the top make it a must-ride for true climbers. The final part is particularly tough, with sections above 12%.
3. Feldberg (Black Forest)
- Length: 12 km
Average rate of increase: 5,6%
Starting point: Todtnau
Description: The highest mountain in the Black Forest offers a relatively moderate but long climb. The route winds through forests and offers beautiful panoramic views from the top, especially in clear weather. - Length: 12 km
- Average growth rate: 5.6%
- Starting point: Todtnau
- Description: The highest mountain in the Black Forest offers a relatively moderate but long climb. The route winds through forests and offers beautiful panoramic views from the top, especially in clear weather.
Travel tips
- Best Travel Time: From early April to late September is a good time to visit. In the summer, it is advisable to cycle early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the heat. It can also be hot in this region, although a climb will be slightly less strenuous. October can still be nice, but the chance of rain increases significantly. January-March is really pleasant.
- Traffic information: Germany is bike-friendly and has more and more bike lanes, but especially outside the city you often share the road with cars. Germany is still ‘first the car’, so be prepared for sometimes unfriendly drivers.
- Bike rental: There are numerous bike rental companies that offer high-quality racing bikes. Reservations are recommended, especially during the high season.
- Hydration: Bring enough water with you, especially during longer rides, and fill your water bottles in the villages you pass through.
- Bring your own bike, or rent one from a quality provider so you can be sure you’re comfortable on your bike. You can read more tips on this here.
When are you leaving?
Events in Baden-Württemberg
Areas
Areas in Baden-Württemberg
How do you get there?
- Flying: Fly to Stuttgart · Karlsruhe/Baden-Baden. If you bring your own bike, book a place for your bike box in time.
- By train: Easy to get to. Convenient stations: Freiburg · Stuttgart · Offenburg.
- By car: From Utrecht you are in about 6 hours Baden-Württemberg.
This is how we calculate: We calculate distances and travel times starting from Utrecht. Our flights always depart from Schiphol, Rotterdam The Hague Airport or Eindhoven Airport. Want to know how to travel from your place of residence the best way? Let us know, We are happy to help you. After all, we built this site together.
Are you flying? Read our guide Flying with your bike: Which airline, what the cost is and how to pack your bike.
