Lenne Valley and Lake Sorpesee Loop

The Plettenberg Tour conveniently starts in the heart of Plettenberg. You should be able to find suitable parking facilities within the town center to begin your ride.

This challenging 98.3 km circular route is designed for experienced road cyclists and generally takes approximately 5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and stops.

No, this tour is categorized as 'difficult' and is specifically designed for road cyclists with very good fitness levels. It features significant climbs and technical demands, making it unsuitable for beginners.

The route features diverse terrain with significant climbs, such as the 'Höchsten' and 'Lenscheid', which involve considerable elevation gain. Despite the challenges, the tour largely runs on good road surfaces, allowing for good average speeds on flatter sections, like those along the Bigge and on the B236 to Rönkhausen.

The tour offers breathtaking landscapes of the Sauerland, including green, wooded low mountain ranges and river valleys. Notable highlights include the Wild Boar Fountain at Neuenrade-Rönkhausen, views of Lake Sorpesee, and the scenic Descent from Leveringhausen to Garbeck.

While the Sauerland region is beautiful year-round, the best time for road cycling this tour is typically during the spring, summer, and early autumn months when the weather is more stable and temperatures are pleasant for long rides. Always check the local weather forecast before you go.

Yes, there are refreshment stops available along the route, which is beneficial given the tour's duration and difficulty. You'll pass through various towns and villages like Finnentrop, Sundern, and Neuenrade where you can find places to refuel.

Yes, the route intersects with several other paths. You'll find sections that overlap with the Lenneroute, Sorpesee-Rundweg, and the Ruhr-Sieg-Radweg, among others.

No, there are generally no specific permits or entrance fees required for cycling on public roads and designated paths within the Naturpark Sauerland-Rothaargebirge. However, always respect local regulations and private property.

As this is a demanding road cycling tour, it is generally not suitable for bringing dogs, especially if they are not accustomed to long distances alongside a fast-moving bicycle. For their safety and yours, it's best to leave your canine companions at home for this particular route.

Be prepared for significant climbs, including a major ascent towards the top of Kohlberg. Caution is particularly advised on the descent to Isenbach. While the road surfaces are generally good, maintaining focus on descents and being mindful of traffic is crucial. Ensure you have a good level of fitness and your bike is in excellent condition.