Baden-Württemberg is the third largest state in Germany. It is located in the south-west of Germany, close to the border with France. This region offers road cyclists but also gravel bikers a beautiful landscape with challenging routes and great views. The regions of Schwarzwald (Black Forest) and Kraichgau-Stromberg are particularly attractive for cyclists and gravel bikers who are looking for both a nice round on the bike, into the mountains or through the forest. But who also like to see something. Like the city of Heidelberg and its surroundings, or the vibrant Freiburg!
Also don't forget that 'Lake Constance' or Lake Constance with picturesque Friedrichshafen also belongs to Baden-Wurttemberg belongs. With that, you can also take a round of 'more' tick off, if you wanted to. Note: the region around the lake is quite hilly.
For the climbers among us, the Black Forest (Schwarzwald) is a wonderful challenge. You must have ridden the Feldberg once. For gravel lovers, you can trek from north to south, so to speak, via the 'Naturpark Crossing'. Or you can head elsewhere into the forests, between vineyards. All in all, cycling in Baden-Württemberg is highly recommended! Will you be going on a cycling holiday in BaWu soon?
Why do you want to go on a cycling holiday in Baden-Württemberg?
Baden-Württemberg, in south-west Germany, is a versatile destination for road cyclists and gravel bikers. The region offers impressive scenery 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 road bike or opt for the adventurous gravel paths in nature parks such as the Kaiserstuhl region, Baden-Württemberg offers something for every type of cyclist. Its extensive network of well-maintained cycling routes, bike-friendly infrastructure and the presence of specialised accommodation make it a hassle-free place to cycle. Cities such as Freiburg, a gateway to the Black Forest, combine excellent cycling facilities with a lively atmosphere.
During your trip, you can enjoy culinary highlights such as the Schwarzwalderkirschtorte. A classic as far as we are concerned. Also local Maultaschen (a kind of ravioli, but cold) and local wines from the vineyards of Kraichgau-Stromberg or Kaiserstuhl. Historic cities like Heidelberg with its imposing castle and the UNESCO monastery in Maulbronn offer great stops that enrich a round trip culturally as well. Want to challenge yourself too? There are more dna enough tour rides in the region. In addition, the Deutschland Tour often passes through the region. 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. Preferable to the neighbouring Vosges as far as we are concerned. Which, on the other hand, you can see quite nicely when you're at the Texas Pass.
Forget the Vosges Mountains. At exactly the same latitude lie the mountains of the Black Forest. It seems as if people have forgotten that there is more on earth besides the Grand Ballon and Planche des Belles Filles. While we are not against the Vosges (how would you dare), the German Black Forest is at least as beautiful and a lot more peaceful. Take to that the German hospitality (yes we like it better) and the beautiful roads and voila!
The mountains in the Black Forest are similar to its French neighbour. The Feldberg a popular climb in the region, tops out at 1277 metres. Just slightly below the Grand Ballon. The Kandel, at 1241 metres, is also a nice sharper. With an average ascent of 7.8%, it's also quite a calf-biter!
In addition, the region offers routes such as the 'Texas Pass' between Oberbergen and Kiechlingsbergen, where you cycle through the Kaiserstuhl wine region and enjoy great views. This route contains short, steep climbs with gradients of 10% or more, making it a challenging but rewarding experience.
For gravel bikers, the possibilities around Freiburg are almost endless. The region offers a network of unpaved trails winding through the heart of the Black Forest, from serene forest trails to challenging gravel roads along steep slopes and rivers. The Kaiserstuhl area, just 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 savoury snack. This mix of pristine nature, challenging terrain and charming culture makes the Black Forest and Freiburg a dream location for road cyclists and gravel bikers alike.
It seems most logical to take your own bike to this region. You can do that in the car, of course, but the train will also get you a long way. Sander went to Kraichgau with the Deutsche Bahn (ICE + Regional) and that went absolutely fine! You can take a hard-shell suitcase with you (max 125cm length) and then you will be fine. It was no problem in the bus either.
Great location in Freiburg. Here you can rent a bike from 2 days, starting from €50 a day. Nothing wrong with it and they have good brands.
You can also rent bikes (often MTB or E-MTB) through many cycling hotels. Check the site of your hotel (or have a look at our accommodations).
We had the chance to try out a few hotels ourselves, but in addition, we looked at some hotels and did some research. Here are some tips for a nice cycling stay in the Baden-Württemberg region:
Of course, Baden-Württemberg has some unmissable cycling routes.
We have posted some of them on our Komoot page (see below). The Naturpark Gravel Crossing is fantastic, but the routes around Freiburg are also very cool!
Of course, Alicante has some unmissable routes. The Tourism Office's website explains them in detail. We have also posted them on our Komoot page (see below).
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