4.7
(270)
2,815
riders
17
rides
Road cycling routes around Probstzella traverse a varied landscape at the foot of the Thuringian Forest, offering diverse terrain for cyclists. The region features picturesque forests, the distinct geological backdrop of the Thuringian Slate Mountains, and the scenic Sormitz Valley. Cyclists can expect routes with varying gradients, from moderate to challenging, often including significant elevation changes. The area also incorporates sections of the Green Belt, providing historical context to some rides.
Last updated: September 29, 2026
31
riders
89.7km
04:40
1,540m
1,540m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
18
riders
77.8km
03:59
1,100m
1,100m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.

15
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
5.0
(1)
11
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
5.0
(3)
9
riders
29.4km
01:27
430m
430m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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At the Schildwiese rest stop, there is a very special piece of Rennsteig history: a small customs house that is reminiscent of the former division of Germany. It was created by Günther Schmidt from Spechtsbrunn. With a lot of humor, he has designed a place here that recalls the time when the Rennsteig was actually divided by the border. Today, you can hike here without any passport control.
10
0
At the Nature Park Information Center „Kalte Küche“ on the Rennsteig, not only three nature parks meet, but also the three districts of Sonneberg, Kronach and Saalfeld/Rudolstadt. Here you will find information about the landscape, crafts and German-German history, as well as numerous free hiking maps. If you need a break, you can refresh yourself at the Rennsteig snack bar with small meals, drinks, coffee and cake. Opening hours: April to October: Tuesday to Friday 10 am - 4 pm, Saturday and Sunday 11 am - 4 pm. November to March: Tuesday to Friday 10 am - 3:30 pm. Monday is a rest day.
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During the Rennsteig Church Day on June 20, 2009, the memorial at Schildwiese was inaugurated. The metal cross, over four meters high, was designed by the builders from original parts of the old border fence. In front of it, a plaque on a stone block commemorates the people who died in this section of the inner-German border, and all victims of the wall and barbed wire during the German division.
7
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The "Zollhaus" at the Rennsteig border monument is not a restored historical building. The hut was erected and equipped in autumn 2016 by the Frankenwaldverein Kleintettau. It is intended to commemorate the vibrant customs history of this border region and the era of German division. The monument also includes a historical border stone and two posts with the coats of arms of the Free State of Bavaria and the district of Kronach on one side, and the Free State of Thuringia and the district of Saalfeld-Rudolstadt on the other.
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The historic customs house on the border between Bavaria and Thuringia near Kleintettau (Markt Tettau) is a reconstructed historic customs station. It is located directly on the legendary Rennsteig hiking trail on the so-called Schildwiese. Today, the small building serves as a historical site and border memorial, commemorating the decades-long inner-German division.
5
0
Crisp climb on great asphalt and hardly any traffic, especially in the after-work hours.
0
0
Imposing viaduct that spans the Ascherbachtal valley. It is ideal to ride downhill from Neuhaus through the village of Lichte, as the B281 is quite busy.
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This is worth watching.
3
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Road cycling around Probstzella offers a varied landscape, from the picturesque forests of the Thuringian Forest to the distinct geological backdrop of the Thuringian Slate Mountains and the scenic Sormitz Valley. You'll encounter routes with varying gradients, including significant elevation changes, catering to different fitness levels.
Yes, while many routes feature significant elevation, there are options for varying ability levels. For a moderate challenge, consider the Schildwiese Toll House – Slate architecture in Lehesten loop from Probstzella, which covers 31.1 miles (50.0 km) through the unique Thuringian Slate Mountains.
Probstzella is known for its challenging routes. The Fuchbachmühle – Jagdshofer Ramp loop from Lichtentanne (Thür) is a difficult 55.9 miles (89.9 km) route with over 1,500 meters of elevation gain through the Thuringian Forest. Another demanding option is the Cycle Path Near Pressig – Rothenkirchen Market Square loop from Lichtentanne (Thür), a 48.6 miles (78.1 km) path with extensive riding through varied landscapes.
The region offers several points of interest. You can explore the unique industrial heritage at the Lehesten Slate Quarry Industrial Heritage Site. Routes also pass through sections of the historical Green Belt. For scenic views, look out for the Hohenwarte Reservoir, also known as the 'Thuringian Sea', and various panoramic viewpoints in the Slate Mountains.
Yes, some routes may pass near historical sites. While not directly on every road cycling route, the area around Probstzella features several castles, such as Schwarzburg Castle and Lauenstein Castle, which can be points of interest for a detour or a separate visit.
The road cycling routes in Probstzella are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 90 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, scenic views, and the challenging yet rewarding nature of the rides through the Thuringian Forest and Slate Mountains.
The region is generally best for road cycling during the warmer months, from spring through autumn, when the weather is mild and the landscapes are vibrant. Spring offers fresh greenery, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Probstzella are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the View of the Leibis-Lichte Dam – Lichte Viaduct loop from Probstzella and the Zollhaus Climb – Fuchbachmühle loop from Probstzella.
There are 18 road cycling routes available around Probstzella, offering a wide range of options from moderate to difficult, ensuring there's a ride for various skill levels and preferences.
Absolutely. The region is part of the Thuringian Slate Mountains, known for its 'blue slate.' You can visit the Lehesten Slate Quarry Industrial Heritage Site, which is also a nature reserve. Other natural highlights include the Meurasteine Rock Formation and the scenic Sormitz Valley.
While specific cafes or pubs are not detailed for every route, many routes pass through charming villages where you can often find local eateries. Additionally, the Spechtsbrunn Nature Park Information Center offers snacks and facilities, which could be a convenient stop on some tours.
Probstzella has a train station, making it accessible by public transport. This allows cyclists to reach the area and potentially start their rides directly from the town, or use it for connecting to other parts of the region.


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