4.6
(1776)
7,435
riders
347
rides
Touring cycling around Dam Cranzahl offers routes through the scenic Ore Mountains region, characterized by its reservoirs, dense forests, and rolling hills. The landscape features a mix of paved and unpaved paths, providing varied terrain for cyclists. Routes often follow the contours of the Cranzahl Reservoir and extend into the surrounding natural areas, including climbs towards higher elevations like Auersberg and Fichtelberg. This area provides a diverse environment for touring cyclists, from gentle lakeside paths to more challenging mountain ascents.
…Last updated: May 25, 2026
5.0
(2)
9
riders
3.92km
00:15
50m
50m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(40)
130
riders
51.7km
03:55
610m
610m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
5.0
(2)
23
riders
63.3km
04:49
1,100m
1,100m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
21
riders
95.9km
06:38
1,520m
1,520m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
4.9
(7)
28
riders
32.5km
02:46
710m
710m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
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.
Login or Signup
The Cranzahl Dam was built between 1949 and 1952 near Sehmatal-Cranzahl and Bärenstein in the Ore Mountains to supply drinking water to Annaberg-Buchholz and the surrounding area. It was later expanded and renovated. Along with the Sosa Dam, it was one of the two major dam construction projects of the young GDR. Reflecting the spirit of the times, it was named the "Dam of Friendship" as a central youth project of the Free German Youth (FDJ). A memorial stone commemorates this. Many hiking trails lead through this area up to the Bärenstein, offering fantastic views of the Ore Mountains.
1
0
The Greifenbach reservoir is one of the oldest dams in Germany. It dams the Rote Wasser stream. Today it is a local recreation area.
2
0
A beautiful sandy beach, pleasantly clean air, excellent water quality, and two spacious lawns make the hearts of all sun worshippers and water lovers beat faster. The Greifenbachstauweiher pond is a popular holiday and recreation center and excursion destination at the foot of the Greifensteine.
2
0
The large peace bell on the Fichtelberg had to remain silent for six months in 2024. Stone throwing in May 2022 had so badly damaged the bell that its sound suffered. It was decided to stop ringing it and replace it with a new one. The old bell rang for the last time on Easter Monday 2024. Just in time for the mountain service on German Unity Day on October 3, the new bell was officially rung for the first time in the fall of 2024. The idea of using a peace bell to commemorate the peaceful revolution of 1989 in the GDR and German reunification in 1990 came from watchman Gerd Schlesinger and night watchman Jörg Eller from the Ore Mountains town of Schwarzenberg. The bell was also intended to be heard in neighboring Czechia and thus ring for a united Europe. The cast steel bell, already ninety years old at the time, was rung for the first time in 2010. The new bell was cast in Innsbruck by the Grassmayr company. At 2,700 kilograms, it is about 1,100 kilograms heavier than the old bell.
17
1
a great corner, always worth a trip
3
2
There are over 340 touring cycling routes around Dam Cranzahl listed on komoot. These routes vary in difficulty, offering options for all skill levels.
Yes, Dam Cranzahl offers a selection of easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. There are 17 easy routes available, such as the Cranzahl Reservoir – Cranzahl Reservoir loop from Cranzahl, which is a pleasant 2.4-mile (3.9 km) ride around the reservoir.
The terrain around Dam Cranzahl is diverse, featuring a mix of paved and unpaved paths. You'll encounter routes that follow the contours of the Cranzahl Reservoir, wind through dense forests, and include rolling hills characteristic of the Ore Mountains. Some routes also involve climbs towards higher elevations like Auersberg and Fichtelberg.
Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, there are over 220 difficult routes. An example is the Weir on the Schwarzwasser – View of Horní Blatná loop from Cranzahl, which covers approximately 96 miles (96 km) with significant elevation changes, offering a demanding ride through varied landscapes.
Along the touring cycling routes, you can explore several interesting landmarks. The Cranzahl Dam itself is a prominent feature. You might also encounter the Cranzahl Dam Rest Area, or the Monument of Friendship (FDJ) at the Cranzahl Reservoir, offering historical context and scenic views.
Yes, many touring cycling routes around Dam Cranzahl are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. The Cranzahl Reservoir – Cranzahl Reservoir loop from Cranzahl is a popular easy circular option, while the Greifenbachstauweiher – Erik Frenzel Jumps loop from Cranzahl offers a more difficult, longer circular experience.
The touring cycling routes around Dam Cranzahl are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 1,600 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscape, from serene lakeside paths to challenging forest climbs, and the well-maintained network of trails.
The best season for touring cycling around Dam Cranzahl is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally milder, and the natural scenery of the Ore Mountains, with its dense forests and reservoirs, is at its most vibrant. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Yes, some touring cycling routes in the region lead towards or offer views of the higher peaks. For instance, the View of Auersberg – Wurzelhütte loop from Cranzahl is a challenging route that takes you through forested slopes with vistas towards Auersberg.
Cranzahl is accessible by public transport, particularly via the Fichtelbergbahn narrow-gauge railway, which has a station in Cranzahl. This can be a convenient way to reach the starting points of various cycling routes, especially those originating directly from the village.
While many routes are well-known, the extensive network around Dam Cranzahl means there are always less-traveled paths. Exploring some of the moderate or difficult routes, such as the Fichtelberg Peace Bell – Fichtelberghaus Bell Tower loop from Cranzahl, can lead you to quieter sections of the Ore Mountains, offering a more secluded experience away from the most popular spots.


Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.