4.4
(247)
2,352
riders
168
rides
Touring cycling routes around Riespach are situated within the Sundgau region of France, characterized by rolling hills, communal forests, and picturesque landscapes. The area offers varied terrain, from valley paths along the Thur Valley to routes ascending into the foothills of the Vosges Mountains. Its proximity to the Rhine Plain also provides access to flat canal-side cycling. This region features a mix of traditional half-timbered houses and natural water features, including numerous lakes.
Last updated: October 28, 2026
4.6
(7)
68
riders
49.9km
02:56
270m
260m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
4.8
(9)
34
riders
37.8km
02:21
370m
370m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.

1.0
(1)
17
riders
54.2km
04:04
670m
670m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
5.0
(1)
29
riders
40.1km
03:12
610m
600m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(1)
12
riders
21.5km
01:20
180m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Altkirch Altkirch is the historic capital of the Sundgau and lies on a striking rocky spur above the valley of the Ill. The town's origins date back to the Middle Ages. The Counts of Ferrette built Altkirch into a fortified town; from 1215 onwards, it was protected by town walls and towers. The characteristic layout, narrow streets, and remnants of the fortifications have been preserved from this medieval town plan to this day. Particularly worth seeing is the Vieille Porte, a former town gate from around 1245. For centuries, Altkirch was an important administrative and commercial center of the Sundgau. After the destructions of the Thirty Years' War, numerous buildings were newly erected. The representative town hall dates from the 18th century, built in 1778 according to plans by the Swabian architect Jean Nissler. In the 19th century, the town continued to develop: alongside its traditional importance as a market and trading place, industrial enterprises emerged, including the well-known Gilardoni brickworks. The 20th century also left its mark. After the First World War, Altkirch became part of the re-Frenchified Alsace. The memory of this period is evident, among other things, at the Vieille Porte, where a Borne Vauthier commemorates the former front line of 1918. The original Altkirch war memorial from 1927 was destroyed during the German occupation in the Second World War; preserved parts were later integrated into a new memorial. Today, Altkirch, with around 6,000 inhabitants, is an important center of the Sundgau. The historic upper town with its old houses, remnants of fortifications, the town hall, and the Sundgau Museum continues to shape the townscape. Source: Ville d’Altkirch – History of the town
0
0
The French and European National Cycleway is a great cycleway winding along side of the Rhine Rhone Canal with very little climbing, for those who do not like to climb. However those who are climbing shy, must be aware of the wind in this area. A lot of the locks still have the former lock man’s house which adds a bit of charm to every lock. One is never alone on this route as there is a constant passing of bicycles, both leisure and racing bikes.
0
0
No idea why I didn't write anything about this...🤔😅
0
1
Interesting railway viaduct.
0
1
Restaurant in Dannemarie on EV6.
0
0
This region has hundreds of small fishponds, once created by monks in the Middle Ages. Today they form a patchwork of water, reeds and forest – a paradise for birds, cyclists and those seeking peace and quiet. You cycle along quiet banks, see herons take flight and enjoy local specialities such as fried carp along the way.
7
0
In the middle of summer, only the green was visible.
7
1
The Saint-Brice Chapel is located between Schwaben and Hausgauen in an idyllic and green setting and currently dates back to 1695.
0
0
There are over 170 touring cycling routes around Riespach, catering to various skill levels. The komoot community has explored more than 2000 of these routes, giving them an average rating of 4.5 stars.
The terrain around Riespach is quite varied. You'll find rolling hills, extensive communal forests, and picturesque landscapes characteristic of the Sundgau region. Routes can range from gentle valley paths, such as those along the Ill river, to more challenging ascents into the foothills of the Vosges Mountains. There's also access to flatter canal-side cycling along the Rhine Plain.
Yes, Riespach offers routes suitable for all skill levels. While the guide highlights many moderate and difficult options, there are 16 easy routes available. These typically feature less elevation gain and are often found along valley paths or through the charming local countryside, providing a pleasant experience for beginners and families.
Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 67 difficult touring cycling routes around Riespach. Routes like the Beautiful view – Saint-Brice Chapel loop from Vieux-Ferrette offer significant elevation gain and varied terrain, often taking around 4 hours to complete. The proximity to the Vosges Mountains also means opportunities for more demanding climbs.
Many routes offer scenic views and pass by interesting landmarks. You might encounter traditional half-timbered houses, numerous lakes, and extensive forests. Notable points of interest include the Saint-Brice Chapel, which can be a pleasant stop, and the Blochmont Pass, known for its gentle climb and rewarding views. The region also features historic sites like Ferrette Castle.
Yes, Riespach's location provides excellent access to renowned long-distance cycling routes. You can connect to the famous Alsace Wine Route, which winds through picturesque vineyards and charming villages. Additionally, the region offers extensive canal-side cycling, such as sections of the EuroVelo 15 (Rhône-Rhine Canal cycle route), providing flat and easy paths through green landscapes.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 190 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscape, from rolling hills to river valleys, and the charming traditional villages. The well-maintained and signposted paths, along with the respectful attitude of local drivers, also contribute to a smooth and enjoyable cycling experience.
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Riespach are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the popular Eglingen Lock – EuroVelo 6 in Dannemarie loop from Feldbach, a moderate 31-mile ride, and The Ill in Hirsingue – Former Hirtzbach station loop from Riespach, which explores the Ill river valley.
The region is generally pleasant for cycling from spring through autumn. The 'green screen' environment with lush forests and lakes is particularly beautiful during these seasons. While specific weather conditions vary, the well-maintained paths make cycling enjoyable for much of the year. For detailed regional information on nature and wellbeing, you can visit visit.alsace.
Yes, cycling through the Sundgau and Alsace regions means encountering charming villages with opportunities for refreshments. For instance, the Auberge Saint-Brice is located near the Saint-Brice Chapel, making it a convenient stop. Many villages along routes, especially those on the Alsace Wine Route, offer cafes and restaurants.
While specific public transport connections directly to trailheads are not detailed, the broader Alsace region is well-connected. For planning your journey and exploring options for reaching cycling routes, it's advisable to check local public transport schedules. Many French towns and cities are generally cyclist-friendly, often with provisions for bikes on regional trains.
Yes, cycling around Riespach and the wider Sundgau region will frequently bring you through villages featuring the characteristic half-timbered houses. Routes that explore the local countryside, such as the Wheat Field Near Waldighoffen – Roman road loop from Waldighoffen, often pass through these charming settlements, allowing you to experience the unique Alsatian architecture.


Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.