4.5
(459)
10,532
riders
109
rides
Road cycling around Hienheimer Forst features extensive, naturally managed oak and beech forests, including the Ludwigshain nature reserve and parts of Bavaria's largest forest conservation area. The region is situated near the confluence of the Altmühl and Danube rivers, offering varied terrain that includes riverside paths and routes traversing the Jura heights. Cyclists can expect mostly paved surfaces through serene forest landscapes and scenic river valleys.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
3.4
(5)
71
riders
37.2km
01:33
230m
230m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.9
(16)
291
riders
60.8km
02:32
410m
410m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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22
riders
61.4km
03:01
580m
580m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
22
riders
80.2km
03:40
870m
870m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.5
(2)
33
riders
64.2km
02:44
480m
480m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Hienheimer Forst
Essing is a small, nice market town. You can well imagine what it looked like before the big canal was built.
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One of the best places to see Riedenburg
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Beautiful hiking trail with an elevated view of the village.
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Hexenagger Castle A Dietricus von Haecsenakker is mentioned as early as 928 in a Regensburg document from the St. Emmeram Monastery; further information is scarce. In 1311, Gottfried Hexenacker became Bishop of Freising. He had studied in Bologna and served as dean of the cathedral there for many years. In 1314, he died of an infectious disease while on a tour of inspection in Vienna. In 1485, the castle passed through marriage to the Counts of Helfenstein, who sold the fortress to Duke William of Bavaria in 1528. He gave Hexenagger to the Muggenthal family as a fief. When the castle was destroyed in the Thirty Years' War, the Muggenthal family rebuilt it as a castle. In 1724, the castle was sold to the Bavarian Elector Charles Albert, as the Hexenagger line of the Muggenthal family had died out. In 1731, Elector Karl Albrecht donated the castle to his mistress, Maria Josepha Countess von Morawitzky. Her husband received the castle in 1738, and when he died in 1754, Anton von Kaiserstein became the new owner. Franz Joseph III von Kaiserstein (1792–1893) sold the castle in 1830 and acquired an estate in Sooß (Lower Austria) in exchange. From 1830 to 1951, Hexenagger Castle belonged to the noble family of Weidenbach. Otto Edler von Weidenbach bequeathed it to his niece Ilse von Kalckreuth, who married Wilhelm Leichtfuß, whose son, Eberhard Leichtfuß, owns it today. Hexenagger is a castle between the Renaissance and Baroque periods, built on the foundations of the old castle. In the lower areas and at the corners, ashlars and bossed ashlars, up to several meters high, are still visible on the castle building. The stump of the keep, made of bossed ashlar, is also said to have been preserved, but is not visible from the outside. The defensive character of the complex is best appreciated from the rear, where parts of the curtain wall and wall towers have been preserved. The tall, narrow chapel also still hints at the castle in its form; particularly interesting is the slender, slightly leaning bell tower, which appears to still sit on the older foundations of the medieval chapel tower. The main building itself, with its stepped gable and beautiful garden, presents a romantic sight. The castle is privately owned and not open to the public; the popular Christmas market was relocated to the Wolfgangshof estate near Zirndorf in Middle Franconia in 2023 due to complaints from local residents. Source: www.Burgenseite.de / www.wikipedia.de
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Put it in a light gear and pedal up comfortably, observing the rocks to the right and left in the forest! Even if you don't want to continue through the forest, it's worth the climb and descent! I give it 6 out of 5 stars.
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There are over 100 dedicated no traffic road cycling routes in Hienheimer Forst, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. You'll find everything from easy rides to more challenging tours.
The routes primarily feature mostly paved surfaces, ideal for road cycling. You'll experience diverse terrain, from serene paths through extensive oak and beech forests to routes offering scenic views along the Altmühl and Danube rivers, and even some climbs into the Jura heights.
Many routes offer glimpses of the region's rich history. You can cycle with views of the impressive Burg Prunn, a castle perched high on a rock. The striking Tatzlwurm Bridge, Essing, once Europe's longest timber bridge, is another architectural highlight. While some routes might require a slight detour, the historic Weltenburg Monastery is also a significant cultural site nearby.
Absolutely. The region is rich in natural beauty. You can enjoy spectacular views of Burg Prunn from various points, and some routes offer panoramic vistas of Kelheim's city gates and the surrounding river valleys. The confluence of the Altmühl and Danube rivers also provides picturesque landscapes.
The komoot community highly rates the road cycling experience in Hienheimer Forst, with an average score of 4.48 stars. Cyclists frequently praise the tranquil, traffic-free nature of the routes, the well-maintained paved surfaces, and the beautiful combination of ancient forests and riverine landscapes. The integration of historical landmarks also adds to the appeal.
Yes, Hienheimer Forst offers 20 easy road cycling routes that are suitable for families and those looking for a relaxed ride. These routes typically have minimal elevation gain and follow quiet, paved paths, allowing for an enjoyable experience for all fitness levels. An example is the Mittertor Clock Tower – Altmühltor Kelheim loop from Kelheim.
Parking is generally available in and around the main towns like Kelheim and Essing, which serve as common starting points for many routes. Look for designated parking areas near the start of your chosen route. Specific parking information can often be found on individual route pages on komoot.
Public transport options, including buses, connect the towns surrounding Hienheimer Forst. While direct access to every trailhead might vary, you can often reach central locations like Kelheim via public transport, and then begin your cycling adventure from there. Check local transport schedules for bike carriage policies.
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are several longer and more demanding routes. For instance, the Essing Village and Cliffs – Altmühltor Kelheim loop from Ludwigshain covers over 80 km with significant elevation, offering a rewarding ride through varied landscapes.
Spring and autumn are generally considered the best seasons for road cycling in Hienheimer Forst. The weather is typically mild, and the natural scenery, with blooming flowers or vibrant autumn foliage, is particularly beautiful. Summer can also be pleasant, especially for rides through the shaded forests, but be mindful of warmer temperatures.
Yes, many of the no traffic road cycling routes in Hienheimer Forst are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. This is convenient for those traveling by car. An example is the Hexenagger Castle loop from Hexenagger.
Yes, you'll find various opportunities for refreshments. Towns and villages along the routes, such as Kelheim, Essing, and Riedenburg, offer cafes, restaurants, and traditional Bavarian taverns. The historic Weltenburg Monastery, for example, has a well-known monastery tavern serving its self-brewed beer.


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