4.5
(492)
2,724
riders
73
rides
Touring cycling routes around Čertovo lake traverse a landscape characterized by dense forests, significant elevation changes, and glacial lakes. The region, situated in the Šumava Mountains, features numerous peaks and valleys, offering varied terrain for cyclists. Routes often include views of prominent natural landmarks and cross international borders, providing diverse cycling experiences.
Last updated: September 25, 2026
4.6
(5)
50
riders
51.1km
04:17
1,310m
1,310m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(95)
378
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

4.0
(2)
17
riders
31.0km
02:11
520m
520m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
11
riders
31.1km
02:28
810m
810m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
9
riders
49.4km
04:03
1,030m
1,030m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
The state border between Germany and the Czech Republic runs right through the railway facilities and the station building. The station therefore has two postal addresses: Bahnhofstraße 54, Bayerisch Eisenstein and Debrník 30, Železná Ruda. Very interesting to look around there!
1
0
The border station Železná Ruda-Alžbětín is a historic building in Europe, with the state border between Germany and the Czech Republic running right through the station building. It was built in 1877 as a joint station, lost its function due to the Iron Curtain during the Cold War, and has served again as an active, touristically significant railway hub in the Bavarian Forest since its reopening in 1991.
11
0
The "Schmugglerhütte", in the immediate vicinity of the historic border station Bayerisch Eisenstein, offers a rustic ambience for a break with warm dishes, snacks, cakes, or tortes. In the warmer months, there is a cozy beer garden. The specialties of the Dampfbierbrauerei Pfeffer brewery are served. The "Schmugglerhütte" is open from Wednesday to Sunday, from 11 am to 7 pm.
8
0
Since 1994, the Bayerischer Localbahn Verein e.V. has operated the Local Railway Museum in Bayerisch Eisenstein. In the locomotive shed with a turntable, visitors can take a tour through the history of Bavarian local railways from 1876 to the present day. Numerous steam, diesel, and electric locomotives, as well as the corresponding wagons, provide an impression of what travel on Bavarian branch lines looked like a hundred years ago. The collection is supplemented by other railway operation utensils - from the historic signal box and signal technology to the water crane for steam locomotives.
10
0
On the site of a former chapel, this baroque church with a hexagonal star floor plan was built between 1729 and 1732. The smaller tower with the entrance was added in the 1770s. The construction was commissioned by Wolf Jindřich Notháf, Count of Wernberg. Today it is the parish church of the Roman Catholic parish of Železná Ruda.
7
0
Large parking lot 🅿️ September 2026 use costs 4 Euros
0
0
Restaurant 🔝 with terrace and a magnificent view of the Bavarian and Bohemian Forest
0
0
The border station Bayerisch Eisenstein is a historic building of European significance, where the state border between Germany and the Czech Republic runs right through the station building. It was built in 1877 as a joint station, lost its function due to the Iron Curtain in the Cold War, and has served again as an active, tourist-oriented railway hub in the Bavarian Forest since its reopening in 1991.
15
0
The Čertovo lake area offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 70 different tours available on komoot. These range from easy rides to challenging mountain passes.
Yes, there are several easy touring cycling routes around Čertovo lake. While the region is known for its challenging terrain, komoot lists 3 easy routes. These are generally shorter with less elevation gain, making them suitable for a more relaxed ride or for families.
The best time for touring cycling around Čertovo lake is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally milder, and the trails are free of snow. Summer offers the warmest temperatures, but spring and autumn provide beautiful scenery with fewer crowds.
Many of the touring cycling routes around Čertovo lake are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Železná Ruda Border Crossing – Bavarian Local Railway Museum loop from Špičák is a popular circular option that offers cultural interest and scenic views.
Many routes in the Čertovo lake area, particularly those starting from Špičák, offer convenient parking options. Špičák serves as a common starting point for several tours, including the Nýrsko Reservoir – Nýrsko Reservoir loop from Špičák, where you can typically find designated parking areas for outdoor enthusiasts.
The touring cycling paths around Čertovo lake offer diverse and stunning views. You'll encounter dense forests, glacial lakes, and significant elevation changes that provide panoramic vistas of the Šumava Mountains. Routes like the View of Großer Arber – Železná Ruda Border Crossing loop from Špičák specifically highlight views of prominent peaks like Großer Arber.
Absolutely. The Čertovo lake region is well-known for its challenging terrain, featuring numerous peaks and valleys. Over 40 of the available routes are rated as difficult, with significant elevation gains. The Pancir Peak – Černé Jezero (Black Lake) loop from Špičák is an example of a demanding route with substantial climbs.
The Čertovo lake area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 380 reviews. Reviewers often praise the region's varied terrain, the stunning natural beauty of the glacial lakes and dense woodlands, and the well-maintained paths that offer diverse cycling experiences.
While specific cafes vary by route, the region's popularity means that many routes, especially those passing through or near villages and border crossings, will have opportunities for refreshments. It's advisable to check the route details on komoot for specific points of interest or towns where you can find cafes and restaurants.
Access to the Čertovo lake area, particularly popular starting points like Špičák, is often possible via public transport, including trains or buses, especially during peak tourist seasons. It's recommended to check local transport schedules for the Šumava Mountains region to plan your journey to the trailheads.
Many touring cycling routes in natural areas like Čertovo lake are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash and owners adhere to local regulations regarding nature protection. Always ensure your dog is fit for the distance and terrain, and carry enough water for both of you. Specific route details on komoot may offer more information on dog-friendliness.
Being in the Šumava Mountains, the weather around Čertovo lake can be variable. Summers are generally mild but can have sudden showers, while spring and autumn offer cooler, crisp conditions. Due to the elevation, temperatures can be lower than in surrounding lowlands, and conditions can change quickly. Always check the forecast before heading out.
Yes, the Čertovo lake region is situated near international borders, and some touring cycling routes offer the unique experience of crossing between countries. The Železná Ruda Border Crossing – Bavarian Local Railway Museum loop from Špičák is an example of a route that includes a border crossing, adding a diverse element to your cycling adventure.


Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.