4.4
(100)
975
riders
114
rides
Gravel biking around Metzingen offers diverse terrain at the foot of the Swabian Alps. The region features rolling hills, extensive vineyards, dense forests, and picturesque valleys, providing varied landscapes for cyclists. This area is characterized by its unique karst formations and low mountain range topography, with routes exploring both natural beauty and historic sites. The surroundings of Metzingen provide a mix of challenging ascents and gentler paths through agricultural areas.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
5.0
(1)
15
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(6)
40
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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3
riders
14.8km
01:09
420m
420m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
15.9km
01:04
330m
330m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
15.2km
01:10
450m
450m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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When I created this highlight in September 2020, it was already clear that the Lauter Valley would be busy on the weekends. It's simply a beautiful valley and a wonderful place to cycle. The fantastic Alb vegetation and the Lauter River are a truly special experience. You're never alone here! Not even during the week – there are people commuting to work in the mornings, too. It's best between Monday and Wednesday. We were here on a Saturday, and obviously, a lot of people were busy, as there weren't many cyclists and other road users on the road. If you're looking for solitude, you should cycle to a valley without a federal highway.
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Incredibly beautiful Alb landscape with limestone cliffs, stony meadows, juniper heaths, green meadows, everything…
2
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Quite short and inconspicuous. You can take it with you
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Beautiful valley, cycling on lonely paths
2
1
A beautiful path through the valley – definitely worth it. Be careful of all the e-bikers, who are usually quite considerate.
3
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A beautiful section in the Ermstal below the vineyard
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A beautiful reservoir that you can walk around. The Glems pumped storage power plant, located south of Metzingen near Glems, was built between 1962 and 1964 by the then Stuttgart Technical Works. From 1997, it belonged to Neckarwerke Stuttgart, and since October 2003, to EnBW Kraftwerke AG. The pumped storage power plant has a capacity of 90 MW, generated by two 45 MW Francis turbines. It is connected to the high-voltage grid of the distribution system operator Netze BW via a two-circuit 110 kV three-phase line via the Metzingen switchgear.
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There are over 120 traffic-free gravel bike trails around Metzingen, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. These routes allow you to explore the beautiful landscapes of the Swabian Alps without encountering significant vehicle traffic.
The terrain around Metzingen is incredibly diverse, ranging from rolling hills and scenic vineyard paths to the more challenging ascents and descents of the Swabian Alps. You'll find a mix of gravel paths, forest roads, and agricultural tracks, perfect for gravel biking. The region's karst landscape and beech forests provide varied surfaces and beautiful scenery.
Yes, while many routes explore the more challenging Swabian Alps, there are also easier, traffic-free options. Look for routes that stick to the vineyards and orchards immediately surrounding Metzingen for a gentler experience. The area around the Glems Reservoir also offers pleasant, less strenuous paths. For a moderate option, consider the Glems Reservoir – Glems Reservoir loop from Sondelfingen.
Absolutely. Many of the gravel routes around Metzingen are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. These circular routes often take you through diverse landscapes, from forests to open fields, ensuring a varied and traffic-free experience. For a longer, challenging loop, check out the Trailfinger Gorge Ascent – Abandoned Village of Gruorn loop from Metzingen (Württemberg).
The region is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can incorporate stunning natural features like the Urach Waterfall and Güterstein Waterfall into longer rides. The trails also lead past impressive gorges such as Hell Holes Dettingen and Wolfsschlucht Gorge. Historic castles like Hohenneuffen and Hohenurach Castle Ruins offer rewarding viewpoints after an ascent.
Yes, the Glems Reservoir is a popular spot for outdoor activities and is featured in several gravel bike routes. It offers scenic views and a pleasant riding environment. A good option is the Glems reservoir – View of the Glems Reservoir loop from Metzingen Neuhausen, which is a moderate ride perfect for enjoying the reservoir's surroundings.
The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience around Metzingen, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 110 reviews. Riders frequently praise the region's diverse and traffic-free paths, the stunning views of the Swabian Alps, and the opportunity to explore charming villages and natural landmarks away from busy roads.
Experienced gravel bikers will find plenty of challenging, traffic-free routes in the Metzingen area, especially those venturing deeper into the Swabian Alps. These routes often feature significant elevation gains and technical sections. For a demanding ride, consider the Lautertal Valley – Trailfinger Gorge Ascent loop from Metzingen (Württemberg), which covers nearly 80 km with substantial climbing.
Many routes in the Swabian Alps pass by traditional huts and shelters that offer a place to rest, and sometimes even food and drinks, especially on weekends. Highlights like the Wackerstein Shelter and Fire Pit or the Jusi Summit Shelter and Barbecue Area are popular stops. Additionally, charming villages along the routes often have cafes or pubs where you can refuel.
Spring through autumn generally offers the best conditions for gravel biking around Metzingen. Spring brings blooming orchards and vineyards, while autumn provides stunning foliage. Summer is also excellent, though some trails might be dusty. To avoid muddy conditions, it's best to check local weather forecasts, especially after heavy rainfall or during the late winter/early spring thaw, as some unpaved sections can become quite soft.
Yes, the region boasts numerous viewpoints that are perfect for a gravel biking adventure. Many routes lead to elevated positions in the Swabian Alps, offering panoramic vistas. The View of Rutschenfelsen Cliffs is one such highlight, providing a fantastic perspective of the landscape. Historic castle ruins like Hohenneuffen also serve as excellent scenic overlooks.


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