The best road cycling routes in Upper Bavaria

Upper Bavaria boasts a vast network of over 16,500 road cycling routes. These are categorized to suit various skill levels: approximately 4,300 are considered easy, over 11,000 are moderate, and about 1,100 offer a more difficult challenge for experienced riders.

Many routes in Upper Bavaria feature stunning lake views. For a picturesque ride around two beautiful lakes, consider Around the Tachinger See and Waginger See. Other routes, like Ammersee Pier – View of Lake Wörthsee and the Alps loop from Lochham, offer glimpses of Lake Ammersee and distant alpine peaks. The region is rich with lakes such as Chiemsee, Starnberger See, Tegernsee, Walchensee, and Eibsee, all providing scenic backdrops for cycling.

Yes, Upper Bavaria offers numerous challenging routes, especially in the Bavarian Alps. Routes like the Valepp Valley Scenic Road – Valepp Scenic Road loop from Miesbach, with over 1,700 meters of elevation gain, provide a significant test. Other demanding options include the Plansee – Allgäu Cycle Path loop from Saulgrub and the South Shore of Walchensee – Sylvenstein Reservoir loop from Kochel, both featuring over 900 meters of climbing. The Rossfeld Panoramastrasse and Kehlsteinstrasse are also known for their challenging climbs and breathtaking vistas.

Road cycling in Upper Bavaria allows you to experience diverse natural beauty. You can encounter majestic alpine scenery, including views of the Zugspitze, Germany's highest peak. Many routes pass by crystal-clear lakes such as Lake Eibsee, Lake Chiemsee, and Hintersee. The region also features dramatic gorges like Partnach Gorge and Höllental Gorge, and the beautiful river landscape of the Isar.

While many road cycling routes in Upper Bavaria involve some elevation, there are options suitable for families, particularly those with older children or those seeking flatter terrain. Routes around lakes like Chiemsee, Starnberger See, and Tegernsee often feature gentle sections. The Around the Tachinger See and Waginger See route is a moderate option with flat sections and water views, which can be enjoyable for families looking for a scenic ride without extreme climbs.

The road cycling routes in Upper Bavaria are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 20,000 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the region's diverse landscapes, from challenging alpine climbs to serene lakeside paths, and the stunning panoramic views of the Bavarian Alps and picturesque lakes. The well-maintained paths and charming villages along the routes are also often highlighted.

Yes, many towns in Upper Bavaria, such as Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Bad Tölz, and Berchtesgaden, serve as excellent bases and are well-connected by public transport, including regional trains and buses. This allows cyclists to reach starting points for routes like the Unterau–Großweil Connector – Walchensee loop from Garmisch-Partenkirchen (BZB), making it convenient to explore without a car.

Absolutely. Upper Bavaria is rich in cultural attractions that can be integrated into your cycling tours. While cycling, you might pass by or detour to famous landmarks such as Neuschwanstein Castle, Linderhof Palace, or Herrenchiemsee Castle. Historic monasteries like Andechs Abbey, known for its brewery, also offer unique stops. Charming towns like Oberammergau and Ramsau provide picturesque settings and opportunities for exploration.

The best time for road cycling in Upper Bavaria is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is typically mild, and the alpine passes are clear of snow. Summer offers the warmest temperatures and longest daylight hours, while spring and autumn provide vibrant scenery with fewer crowds. Always check local weather conditions, especially for higher alpine routes, as conditions can change rapidly.

Yes, Upper Bavaria offers numerous circular road cycling routes, perfect for starting and ending your ride in the same location. Examples include the popular Valepp Valley Scenic Road – Valepp Scenic Road loop from Gmund, which offers scenic views through the Valepp Valley, and the Deisenhofen railway line – View of Lake Tegernsee loop from Fasanenpark, providing views of Lake Tegernsee. Many routes around the region's lakes are also designed as loops, offering continuous scenic enjoyment.

Many towns and villages that serve as starting points for road cycling routes in Upper Bavaria offer designated parking areas. Larger towns like Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Bad Tölz, and Miesbach typically have public parking facilities. For specific routes, it's advisable to check the route details on komoot, as many tour descriptions include information about suitable parking near the starting point.