Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Cycling routes
Germany
North Rhine-Westphalia
Märkischer Kreis

Balve

The best cycling routes around Balve

4.7

(526)

2,470

riders

116

rides

Touring cycling routes around Balve offer a diverse landscape within Germany's Sauerland region. The area is characterized by dense forests, rolling hills, and routes alongside flowing rivers, providing varied terrain for cyclists. The Hönnetal, known for its striking rock formations, adds to the unique cycling environment. Well-maintained paths and a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces cater to various fitness levels.

Best touring cycling routes around Balve

  • The most popular touring cycling route is Witches' Dance Plateau – Balve Cave loop from Balve, a 20.3 miles (32.7 km) trail that takes 2 hours 38 minutes to complete. This route offers a moderate challenge through varied landscapes.
  • Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is View of Balve from Kohlberg – Schultenhof Farm Café loop from Balve-Sanssouci, a difficult 21.5 miles (34.5 km) path. This route features significant elevation changes and scenic views of the surrounding area.
  • Local touring cyclists also love the Garbeck to Küntrop Cycle Path – Kattenstein Hill loop from Garbeck, an 11.2 miles (17.9 km) trail leading through rolling hills, often completed in about 1 hour 9 minutes.
  • Touring cycling around Balve is defined by dense forests, flowing rivers, and rolling hills. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy rides to more challenging ascents.
  • The routes in Balve are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 500 reviews. More than 2,300 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Balve's varied terrain.

Last updated: May 25, 2026

4.8

(86)

247

riders

#1.

Wocklum Castle – Balve Cave loop from Mellen

27.7km

01:54

210m

210m

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Navigate with device

Send to Phone

Save

Moderate

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
guide_signup
Let us show you the way with the komoot mobile app
With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

Sign up for free

Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard

Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

4.6

(68)

179

riders

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
Sign up for free to see 112 more rides around Balve.

Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.

Sign up for free

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.

Login or Signup

Popular around Balve

Germany's Sauerland Forest Route – Views and discoveries

High trails and deep views – hiking in the Märkisches Sauerland

One Way Wanderlust: hiking in the Sauerland by public transport

Zauberhaft mystisch - Die Sauerland-Waldroute

Hiking around Balve

MTB Trails around Balve

Road Cycling Routes around Balve

Running Trails around Balve

Gravel biking around Balve

Mountain Hikes around Balve

Other adventures around Balve

Germany's Sauerland Forest Route – Views and discoveries

Hiking Collection by

Anette

Tips from the Community

Winhold
March 26, 2025, Kneipp Facility at Borkebach

Just behind the Luisenhütte in Wocklum, there is a natural Kneipp facility in the Borkebach stream, along the footpath and cycle path. There's a metal rack for shoes and socks, and you can hold onto the railings to avoid falling into the water while doing Kneipp therapy. Water treading is said to stimulate the circulation and promote arterial blood flow. The cold stimulus causes the superficial blood vessels to contract.

Translated by Google

1

0

just do it. Very relaxed cycling. The inclines are easy to manage with an e-bike. District, country and federal roads are mostly squashed and not used. I just liked it.

Translated by Google

0

0

Behind the town, in a garden, there is this wonderful sculpture of a couple from Neuenrade, who seem to be waiting for - whatever - with their cat and a packed bag. She is still cuddling with the cat and he seems to have finished reading the daily newspaper, the Süderländer Volksfreund.

Translated by Google

2

0

Since 1998, the bronze sculpture has stood at the Platz der Generationen in memory of the goat, popularly known as “Hitte”, which was the pet of many Neuenrade families for centuries.

Translated by Google

1

0

In summer, the Sorpesee is lively

Translated by Google

3

0

Very beautiful pure nature 👍!!!

Translated by Google

2

1

Recognizability is given

Translated by Google

0

0

Nice place for a break.

Translated by Google

1

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many touring cycling routes are available in Balve?

Balve offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 100 options available. These routes have been explored by nearly 2,000 touring cyclists using komoot, highlighting the region's popularity for two-wheeled adventures.

What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes around Balve?

The touring cycling routes around Balve feature a diverse landscape characteristic of the Sauerland region. You can expect a mix of dense forests, flowing rivers, and rolling hills. The area provides varied topography, from well-maintained cycle paths to more challenging ascents, catering to different cycling preferences.

Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Balve?

Yes, Balve offers several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a more relaxed ride. There are 24 easy routes available. An example is the Kattenstein Hill – Küntroper Motte loop from Balve, which leads through rolling hills and is often completed in about 1 hour 14 minutes.

Are there challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders in Balve?

Absolutely. For experienced riders looking for a challenge, Balve has 34 difficult touring cycling routes. Routes like the View of Balve from Kohlberg – Schultenhof Farm Café loop from Balve-Sanssouci feature significant elevation changes and scenic views. Another demanding option is the Stephanopel Valley – Hoennetal Gravel Path loop from Balve-Garbeck, which includes substantial climbs.

What natural features or landmarks can I explore along the touring cycling routes in Balve?

Balve's touring cycling routes pass by several notable natural features and landmarks. The Hönnetal is a significant natural attraction known for its many caves and cultural monuments. You can also discover highlights such as the Feldhof Cave, the Felsenmeer (Hemer), and the Seven Maidens Rock Formation. For those interested in water features, the Hexenteich (Witch Pond), Menden is also nearby.

Are there any waterfalls accessible from the cycling routes in Balve?

While Balve is known for its caves and rock formations, there are also some interesting water features nearby. You can find the Former Water Reservoir and Stepped Waterfall, and the Lenne Cascade, Plettenberg, which offer scenic stops for cyclists.

Are there circular touring cycling routes in Balve?

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Balve are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. For example, the popular Witches' Dance Plateau – Balve Cave loop from Balve is a moderate 20.3-mile (32.7 km) circular trail.

What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Balve?

The touring cycling experience in Balve is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 370 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's diverse landscapes, including its dense forests, flowing rivers, and rolling hills, as well as the well-maintained cycling infrastructure that caters to various skill levels.

Are there bike-friendly businesses or places to stop for refreshments along the routes?

Yes, Balve features certified 'bike-friendly businesses' that cater to cyclists' needs. These establishments offer amenities like secure bike parking, repair kits, and maps. Examples include Goldbäckerei Grote, Hüttenschänke, Wandercafé Alte Schmiede, and Hotel & Restaurant Antoniushütte, providing convenient stops for refreshments and breaks.

Is there parking available for cyclists near the trailheads in Balve?

Balve is well-equipped for cyclists, and parking facilities are generally available near popular trailheads. While specific parking locations vary by route, the region's focus on cycling tourism means you can typically find convenient spots to park your vehicle before starting your ride.

What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Balve?

The Sauerland region, including Balve, is generally pleasant for touring cycling from spring through autumn. These seasons offer mild temperatures and vibrant natural scenery, making for enjoyable rides through forests and along rivers. While specific seasonal conditions can vary, these months typically provide the best weather for exploring the diverse terrain.

Are there any routes that include the Sorpesee Dam?

Yes, the Sorpesee Dam is a notable feature in the wider region, and there are touring cycling routes that incorporate it. The Sorpesee Dam – Sorpesee Dam loop from Garbeck is a challenging 48.7 km (30.3 miles) route that allows you to experience this impressive landmark.

Most popular routes around Balve

Family-friendly hikes around Balve

Most popular attractions around Balve

Mountain Peaks

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.

IserlohnMenden (Sauerland)MeinerzhagenPlettenbergHemerNeuenradeLüdenscheidWerdohlHalverHerscheidKierspeAltenaOestertalsperreSchalksmühleVersetalsperreFürwiggetalsperreNachrodt-WiblingwerdeListertalsperreN.S.G. Auf'm Ebbe / EbbemooreGenkeltalsperreKerspetalsperreLuerwald Und BieberbachJubachtalsperreSeilersee

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Neuenrade

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy