The best cycling routes around Mellingen
4.5
(504)
2,028
riders
32
rides
Touring cycling routes around Mellingen (Thür) are situated in the Ilm valley, offering a landscape characterized by gentle hills, river plains, and wooded areas. The region features the Ilm River, providing scenic riverside paths suitable for cycling. Surrounding forests and agricultural lands contribute to varied terrain for outdoor activities. The area's elevation changes are generally moderate, making it accessible for diverse cycling experiences.
Best touring cycling routes around Mellingen
- The most popular touring cycling route is Goethe's Garden House –…
Last updated: May 30, 2026
4.8
(150)
556
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(77)
287
riders
39.9km
02:29
280m
280m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(34)
173
riders
130km
07:56
950m
950m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(19)
79
riders
23.2km
01:34
270m
270m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(20)
62
riders
46.4km
03:02
500m
500m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Great fire brigade in town.
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Easy-to-ride cycle path, partly gravel, otherwise good asphalt...
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🏞️ Landscape & Location - Buchfart lies directly on the Ilm River, nestled in a narrow valley with steep, wooded limestone slopes. - The surrounding area is ideal for hikes, especially to the Balsamine, a viewpoint at an altitude of 340 meters. - The Ilm River winds its way through the valley here and offers a spectacular display of colors in autumn. --- 🕰️ History - First documented mention: 1348, by the knight Lutolf von Heitingsburg. - The place name is derived from "Furt" and "Buchenwald" – hence "Buchfart." - The area was already settled in the Neolithic period, as archaeological finds confirm. - The Buchfart Castle, a castle complex in the limestone cliff above the town, is shrouded in legend and was explored by the mineralogist Georgius Agricola as early as 1551. --- 🏛️ Sights - Historic Water Mill: The Pfeiffer Mill has been lovingly restored and now houses a meeting center for millers, a farm shop, and even a small village brewery. - Ilm Bridge: An old stone bridge connects the village districts and is a popular photo opportunity. - Village Church: Simple yet charming – a place of peace and history. --- 🧙♂️ Legends & Myths - The Buchfarter Caves are the setting for numerous legends – from ghosts guarding treasures to little men who lead bricklayers into underground passages. - The Schlossberg is also shrouded in legend and offers exciting stories for curious hikers.
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Great wooden bridge 🤩. But be careful, it's still busy in places.
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The Buchfarter Felsenburg, located on the steep shell limestone slope of the Illm River, is the only structure of its type in Central Germany and of particular cultural and historical significance. It was originally a castle complex belonging to the Counts of Orlamünde. Around the 12th century, 12 chambers of varying sizes were carved into the steep rock face in a row extending approximately 110 meters in length and at a height of 40 meters above the Illm River. The chambers were connected by a Romanesque hillside wall. Some wall remains and a round-arched doorway are still visible today. The rock castle had no military significance in the late Middle Ages. However, it served as a fully developed, impregnable refuge for a long line of counts, dukes, and electors.
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A wonderful section of the cycle path where you'll gladly take advantage of such a well-maintained rest area.
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Ilm cycle path towards Ziegengraben, very nice to cycle here.
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The viaduct has a total length of 201.30 meters, has 13 arches, and is 18 meters high. It was considered one of the largest railway bridges at the time. The keystone was laid on June 28, 1893, in the presence of the Princely Couple of Schwarzburg-Rudolstadt and other guests of honor.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Mellingen?
There are over 25 touring cycling routes around Mellingen, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists. These routes explore the picturesque Ilm valley, gentle hills, and wooded areas, catering to various skill levels.
What types of landscapes can I expect to see while cycling around Mellingen?
Cycling around Mellingen, you'll encounter a mix of landscapes characteristic of the Ilm valley. This includes scenic riverside paths along the Ilm River, gentle rolling hills, and extensive wooded areas. The terrain is generally moderate, making it accessible for a wide range of cycling experiences.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Mellingen offers several easy touring cycling routes. An excellent option is the Goethe's Garden House – Weimar Market Square loop from Mellingen (Thür). This 11.4-mile (18.4 km) route has minimal elevation gain and connects Mellingen with historical sites in Weimar, making it ideal for a relaxed ride.
What are some challenging touring cycling routes in the Mellingen area?
For those seeking a challenge, the Buchfart Watermill – Ilmtal Cycle Path loop from Mellingen (Thür) is a difficult 80.7-mile (129.9 km) path. This extensive route follows the Ilmtal Cycle Path, traversing varied landscapes including river valleys and more demanding ascents.
What kind of landmarks or attractions can I discover along the cycling routes?
Many routes around Mellingen lead to interesting landmarks and attractions. You can visit the Covered Wooden Bridge in Buchfart, explore the historic Weimar Market Square, or see the Weimar Town Hall with carillon. Further afield, you might encounter the Belvedere Palace Weimar or the Paulinenturm.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available?
Yes, many touring cycling routes around Mellingen are designed as loops. For example, the Buchfart – Buchfart Watermill loop from Mellingen (Thür) is a moderate 14.4-mile (23.2 km) trail that offers a mix of riverside cycling and gentle climbs, bringing you back to your starting point.
What do other cyclists say about touring cycling in Mellingen?
The touring cycling routes around Mellingen are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 350 reviews. More than 1500 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the scenic river valleys and well-maintained paths.
When is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Mellingen?
While cycling is enjoyable throughout the warmer months, April and May are particularly popular times for touring cycling in the Mellingen region. The weather is generally pleasant, and the natural landscapes are vibrant, offering ideal conditions for exploring the Ilm valley and surrounding areas.
Are there any routes that pass by natural features like reservoirs or ponds?
Yes, some routes incorporate natural water features. The Ilmtal Cycle Path – Hohenfelden Reservoir loop from Mellingen (Thür) is a difficult 46.4-mile (74.7 km) route that includes the Hohenfelden Reservoir. Additionally, you can find the Dreiteichsgrund Ponds as a highlight in the area.
Can I find places to rest or take a break along the cycling routes?
Yes, there are several huts and shelters located along or near the cycling routes where you can take a break. Notable spots include the St. Hubertus Hut in Kohlgrund, the Longest bench in the Ilm Valley at Grafenholz Hut, and the Nature Experience House Leutratal.
What is the typical elevation gain on touring cycling routes around Mellingen?
The elevation gain varies significantly depending on the route's difficulty. Easy routes, like the Goethe's Garden House – Weimar Market Square loop, have minimal elevation gain (around 94 meters). More challenging routes, such as the Buchfart Watermill – Ilmtal Cycle Path loop, can involve substantial ascents, reaching over 940 meters of elevation gain.
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