Altmühltal Cycling Holidays: Cycle Tours in Altmühltal

Cycle Tour from Medieval Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Regensburg

The tour starts in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Founded in 1274, the town is famous for its medieval old town and Franconian cosiness. It can be reached via the Deutsche Bahn regional train service. The town is easily accessible via Deutsche Bahn regional trains. Travelling with your bike? Be sure to book your bicycle ticket early, as spaces are limited. Especially during peak cycling season, we recommend reserving overnight accommodation in advance. If you’re seeking quieter stops, consider the peaceful villages just off the main cycling path. With RAD+Reisen, you benefit from pre-booked accommodation and don’t have to organize anything yourself – simply leave your wishes in the hands of our travel consultants.

From the Frankenhöhe Nature Park to Lake Altmühl

Leaving Rothenburg behind, the Altmühltal cycling route takes you through the verdant Frankenhöhe Nature Park, with a gentle descent towards Colmberg. From here, you’ll follow the Altmühl river through idyllic Franconian landscapes to Gunzenhausen, a charming spa town located at the Altmühlsee lake. The area is steeped in Roman history — once a site of fortifications along the ancient Limes border — and is now at the heart of the Franconian Lake District. You’ll find plenty of places to stop for a break along the way, whether it’s a shady bench by the river or a traditional beer garden offering regional delicacies. From Gunzenhausen, the route continues to Treuchtlingen, where the river valley begins to open and flow more freely. Just beyond, the Altmühl dramatically cuts through the Jura cliffs of the Swabian Alb, forming a breathtaking series of bends, limestone cliffs, and forested hills. This section of the route is particularly worth seeing, as there are wildly romantic landscapes, imposing castles and rustic ruins around every bend until the river flows into the Danube.

Detour to the Danube cycle path and imposing castle ruins along the way

Take a break in the elegant baroque town of Eichstätt, home to a university, bishopric, and the Altmühltal Nature Park’s headquarters. The route then leads through Beilngries to Riedenburg, a medieval town nestled beneath the majestic Rosenburg Castle. A tip for adventurous cyclists: Along the way, adventurous cyclists can explore side valleys and detours like the Schambach Valley Railway Cycle Path, which runs along a former railway line and connects directly to the world-renowned Danube Cycle Path. Riedenburg lies at the foot of Rosenburg Castle in the Altmühltal valley. The ruins of Tachenstein and Rabenstein castles offer impressive views over the valley. In Kelheim, the Altmühl finally flows into the Danube. From here, you can take a boat trip to Regensburg or along the Main-Danube Canal to Ingolstadt, opening up completely new perspectives of the picturesque river landscape.

Who is the Altmühltal cycling route ideal for?

The Altmühltal bike route is perfect for

• leisure cyclists,
• first-time tourers and
• families with children.

Thanks to its gentle gradients and smooth, clearly signposted cycle paths, it’s perfect for those seeking an easy-going tour with plenty of natural beauty and cultural highlights. Whether you’re a casual cyclist or someone looking to embark on their first multi-day bike trip, these tours offer a relaxed yet rewarding experience in one of Germany’s most cycle-friendly regions.

Altmühltal Cycle Tours: These services are included when travelling with RAD + REISEN

Booking your Altmühltal cyling holidays with RAD + REISEN meansyou can enjoy a travel free from stress and with maximum comfort. You’ll benefit from these services we provide:

• Carefully selected and pre-booked accommodation
• Luggage service, so you can cycle light
• Modern rental bikes
• 7-day service hotline, just in case you need assistance

Where Will Your Next Holidays by Bike Take You?

Do you need more inspiration for where your next bike holiday could take you? Take a look at our other offers: RAD + REISEN proudly offers cycle tours in Germany, Europe and occasionally even long-distance cycle tours outside Europe. Enjoy the variety that these tours offer: From centre-based tours, bike and boat tours to roundtrips – we’re sure your perfect bicycle holiday awaits at RAD + REISEN.

FAQ – Frequently asked questions about our Weser Cycling Holidays

How long does a typical Altmühltal cycling holiday take?

Most travellers complete the full route in six to eight days, depending on the daily distances covered and any optional detours taken.

Is the Altmühltal cycling route suitable for children?

Yes, as it is largely flat, paved and car-free, it is one of the most family-friendly bike tours in Germany.

Can I combine this trip with the Danube cycle path?

Absolutely! Thanks to the Schambach Valley Railway Cycle Path, it is easy to connect to the Danube bike route.

What is the best time of year to travel?

Late spring to early autumn (May–September) offers the best weather, but summer is the most popular time, so book early!