Southern Germany by bike, the Altmühl cycle route
Here is a favorite destination in Southern Germany by bike. Follow the Altmühl cycle route from Rothenburg to Regensburg via Eichstätt. This famous cycle path (the oldest "long-distance" cycle route) runs along the Altmühl to the Danube and passes through the most beautiful cities in Germany. Set off to the heart of Germany by bike and discover picturesque villages and bucolic natural landscapes. The Altmühltal cycle route combines history and nature and will surprise you with its magnificent landscapes!
Highlights of the trip:
- Rothenburg, a medieval town
- Regensburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- The Franconian Jura
- Altmühl Valley Nature Park
- Pfünz Roman Fort
- Rhine-Main-Danube Canal
- The Danube
- The Weltenburg Abbey
Day 1: Arrival in Rothenburg
Your cycling holiday in Germany begins in Rothenburg, a town located in the Tauber Valley. Take some time to stroll through the streets of the medieval city. At 9 pm, you can enjoy a guided evening walk to start your trip (included).
Overnight in Rothenburg.
Day 2: From Rothenburg to Ansbach (54 km)
In the morning, pick up your rental bikes (if booked). The route takes you to the source of the Altmühl River, where you join the cycle path of the same name. From there, you’ll mostly follow well-marked cycle tracks all the way to Hornau. The journey continues past Colmberg and its castle, as well as Lehrberg, before reaching the town of Ansbach.
Overnight in Ansbach.
Day 3: From Ansbach to Weißenburg or Wettelsheim (65 km)Cycle to Lake Altmühlsee, an artificial lake ideal for swimming and water sports such as sailing. On the south-eastern shore, you’ll find the charmingc town of Gunzenhausen. Then continue your journey through the little village of Trommelsheim before reaching Wettelsheim or Weißenburg.
Overnight in Wettelsheim or Weißenburg
Day 4: From Weißenburg or Wettelsheim to Eichstätt (50 km)
Today, your stage begins in the small village of Karlsgraben, where Charlemagne once attempted to build a canal linking the Rhine and the Danube. The route then leads you into the Altmühltal Nature Park, with its numerous twists and turns. You’ll then reach the Franconian Jura and the beautiful episcopal town of Eichstätt.
Overnight in Eichstätt.
Day 5: From Eichstätt to Riedenburg (64 km)
This day begins in the nature park and continues to the Roman fort of Pfünz. You’ll then pass through the picturesque villages of Arnsberg and Beilngries, before ending your stage in Riedenburg. Don’t miss to visit the Crystal Museum, where you can admire the largest rock crystal in the world (entrance fee included).
Overnight in Riedenburg
Day 6: From Riedenburg to Regensburg (56 km)
Passing through Essing, you arrive in Kelheim. Before continuing your journey, we recommend taking a boat trip to cross the majestic Danube and visit Weltenburg Abbey (approximately €16, payable locally). Continue to Saal an der Donau and Bad Abbach before arriving in Regensburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its medieval old town reflects the city’s commercial importance during the Middle Ages, when it was a key crossroads for trade between Italy, Bohemia, Russia, and Byzantium.
Overnight in Regensburg.
Day 7: Regensburg
Your cycling trip along the Altmühl cycle path ends after breakfast. You can extend your stay by spending an additional night in Regensburg.
