The best road cycling routes in the Sauerland

The Sauerland region offers a vast network for road cyclists, with over 4,100 routes available on komoot. This includes a diverse range of tours, from moderate rides to challenging routes with significant elevation gains.

Sauerland, often called 'the land of a thousand mountains,' features a distinctive 'sawtooth profile' of rolling hills and valleys. You'll navigate through extensive forested areas, often on secondary roads with minimal traffic, and encounter significant elevation changes, especially in areas like the Rothaar Mountains. The region also boasts picturesque river valleys and scenic reservoir lakes.

The best time for road cycling in Sauerland is generally from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is more favorable, and the natural landscapes, including forests and lakes, are at their most vibrant. Summer offers longer daylight hours, while spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Sauerland, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 6,200 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the region's diverse and picturesque landscapes, the prevalence of quiet, well-paved country roads, and the variety of routes catering to different fitness levels, from scenic lake loops to challenging mountain climbs.

Yes, Sauerland offers numerous circular road cycling routes. For example, the Lenne Valley and Lake Sorpesee Loop provides a challenging ride through varied terrain. Another option is the Plettenberg Two Thousand Loop, which takes you through rolling hills. Many routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point.

While Sauerland is known for its rolling hills, there are easier routes available. The region offers over 680 easy road cycling tours. Look for routes that follow river valleys, such as sections of the Lenneroute, or those that stick to the flatter areas around some of the larger lakes. These routes often have less elevation gain, making them more accessible for beginners.

For challenging climbs, focus on routes traversing the Rothaar Mountains, which include peaks like Langenberg and Kahler Asten. The Rothaar Road Bike Route is a prime example, offering significant elevation changes and panoramic views. Other difficult routes like the Möhne and Arnsberg Forest Loop also feature substantial ascents.

Absolutely. Sauerland is home to several large reservoir lakes, including Diemelsee, Biggesee, Sorpesee, Hennesee, and Möhnesee. Many road cycling routes are designed to incorporate these lakes, offering stunning views and opportunities to cycle over impressive dams. The Biggesee (Lake Bigge) – Lister Reservoir loop from Drolshagen is a great example of a route featuring these scenic waters.

Beyond the beautiful forests and lakes, you can encounter unique natural features and landmarks. Some routes pass near geological formations like the Bruchhauser Steine. You might also find yourself near the Kahler Asten summit, offering expansive views, or even discover hidden gorges and waterfalls like those found along the Gorge and Bridge Trail on the Helle.

While many road cycling routes in Sauerland involve hills, some sections are more suitable for families. Routes built on former railway lines, like parts of the SauerlandRadring, tend to be flatter and offer a unique experience, such as passing through the 'Fledermaustunnel.' When planning with family, look for routes with minimal elevation gain and away from heavy traffic.

Yes, Sauerland is well-equipped for cyclists. Many towns and villages throughout the region, such as Winterberg, Eslohe, and those near Hennesee, offer accommodation options ranging from hotels to guesthouses that cater to cyclists, often providing secure bike storage and sometimes even repair facilities. It's advisable to check specific amenities when booking.

Yes, many road cycling routes in Sauerland pass through charming villages and towns where you can find cafes, pubs, and restaurants. Routes that follow river valleys or loop around lakes often have establishments conveniently located for a refreshment stop. For example, areas along the RuhrtalRadweg or near the SauerlandRadring are known for their hospitality options.