4.6
(146)
595
riders
76
rides
Touring cycling around Esse features an undulating landscape characterized by river valleys, particularly along the Vienne, and a mix of rural roads and paths. The routes often include moderate to difficult climbs, indicating varied elevation changes throughout the region. This area offers a blend of natural scenery and historical points of interest, providing diverse options for touring cyclists.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
4.5
(2)
5
riders
52.3km
03:13
510m
510m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
11
riders
37.7km
02:24
440m
440m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.5
(4)
17
riders
33.2km
02:09
380m
380m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
14
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
11
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Beautiful abbey church with the abbey garden behind it, located in a medieval-looking street
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The daily special was good and good value. The staff were very friendly and everything was fine.
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This medieval city is labeled "Small city of character". And for good reason ! The streets of the heart of the city are full of half-timbered houses. The ramparts, the Vieux bridge, the Goire bridge, the Romanesque churches and the mansions affirm the undeniable charm of Confolens. Located at the confluence of the Vienne and the Goire, the city offers many water activities to visitors.
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This position on the heights offers a beautiful view of the Issoire which flows below and on the north bank of this watercourse.
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The castle dominates the town and the confluence of the Issoire and the Vienne. The first stones were laid in the 12th century, but the current configuration dates from the 15th and 16th centuries. Today, many walls remain standing although the roofs and frames have disappeared. In summer, you can enjoy certain activities taking place on the site.
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A small town on the banks of the Vienne. There are a few cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.
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This old castle overlooks the Vienne river in the town of Saint-Germain-de-Confolens.
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There are over 75 touring cycling routes available in Essen, offering a diverse range of experiences from moderate to difficult. The komoot community has explored these routes over 560 times.
The touring cycling routes in Essen are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 140 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, scenic river valleys, and the blend of natural beauty with industrial heritage.
Yes, Essen offers 9 easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. These routes often follow flat sections along the Ruhr River or through city parks, providing a gentle introduction to the region's cycling paths.
Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Essen features 22 difficult routes. These often include more significant elevation changes, particularly in areas with rolling hills. An example is the Tour along the Vienne from Confolens, which covers over 52 km with substantial climbs.
For longer rides, you can explore routes like the Saint-Germain-de-Confolens – Lake Vienne loop from Saint-Germain-de-Confolens, which spans nearly 63 km. Many routes also connect to longer regional networks like the Ruhr Valley Cycle Route, allowing for extended tours.
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Essen are designed as loops, perfect for starting and ending in the same location. A popular option is the Old Bridge of Confolens – Abbaye de Lesterps loop from Confolens, a moderate 38.5 km ride exploring historical sites and rural scenery.
Essen's routes offer a mix of natural beauty and industrial heritage. You can cycle along the Ruhr River and Lake Baldeney, explore green spaces like Grugapark, and encounter renatured industrial sites such as Schurenbachhalde. Historic landmarks include the Château de Saint-Germain-de-Confolens and the picturesque settlement of Saint-Germain-de-Confolens.
Yes, Essen's cycling network often incorporates its rich industrial past. Many paths are built on former railway lines, offering traffic-free cycling through transformed landscapes. You can also find routes that lead to or near the UNESCO World Heritage Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, a significant cultural landmark.
Essen's touring cycling routes feature an undulating landscape. You'll find relatively flat sections along river valleys, particularly the Ruhr and Vienne, but also moderate to difficult climbs through rolling hills. The region offers a good balance for varied cycling experiences.
Yes, several routes lead through or near charming towns and villages. For instance, the Abbaye de Lesterps – Saint-Germain-de-Confolens loop from Province ecclésiastique de Poitiers takes you past the historic Abbaye de Lesterps and through rural landscapes. The old towns of Werden and Kettwig are also accessible by bike, offering picturesque settings.
Many routes along the Ruhr River and around Lake Baldeney offer excellent scenic viewpoints. The 14-kilometer circular path around Lake Baldeney provides continuous views of the water and surrounding nature. Additionally, renatured slag heaps like Schurenbachhalde offer elevated perspectives of the landscape and city.
Essen's green spaces and river areas are home to diverse wildlife. Around Lake Baldeney and the Ruhr River wetlands, you might spot various bird species such as cormorants and kingfishers, as well as turtles and other aquatic life, especially in quieter sections of the routes.


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