The best cycling routes around Bad Steben
4.4
(659)
2,829
riders
89
rides
Touring cycling routes around Bad Steben traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and river valleys. The region is situated within the Franconian Forest Nature Park, offering varied terrain for cyclists. Notable features include the scenic Höllental, through which the Selbitz river flows, and views extending to the Fichtel Mountains. This area provides a network of routes suitable for different cycling preferences.
Best touring cycling routes around Bad Steben
- The most popular touring cycling route is Tour zur Kur, a 21.2 miles (34.1 km) trail that takes 2 hours 17 minutes to complete. This route offers a moderate cycling experience through the local area.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Jungfernsteg Bridge – Höllental along the Selbitz loop from Bad Steben, a difficult 19.7 miles (31.7 km) path. This route highlights the scenic Höllental and follows the Selbitz river.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Selbitz Cycle Path – Höllensprudel Spring House loop from Bad Steben, a 12.8 miles (20.6 km) trail leading through the Selbitz river valley, often completed in about 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Bad Steben is defined by rolling hills, dense forests, and picturesque river valleys. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy paths to more challenging routes with significant elevation changes.
- The routes in Bad Steben are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 500 reviews. More than 2,000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Bad Steben's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 27, 2026
4.6
(90)
319
riders
34.1km
02:17
400m
400m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(98)
339
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.6
(57)
249
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(42)
190
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
4.3
(35)
187
riders
20.7km
01:15
130m
130m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
There is a very large enclosure with fallow deer here.
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The route climbs gently almost continuously, gaining a total elevation of 150 meters. Unfortunately, more and more forest disappears along the route.
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The spa gardens in Bad Steben were created to offer both guests and locals a chance to escape from everyday life and enjoy the magnificent floral displays and the splashing fountains. Few people know that many years ago, there was a mine right next to the spa square. If you look closely, you can still see traces of the past in the ground. Back then, iron and copper were extracted from the depths using the simplest of means.
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In 1887, the local railway line from Hof via Naila to Marxgrün was opened and extended to Bad Steben in 1898. As early as 1897, Blankenstein received a railway connection via Lobenstein to Triptis. Due to the industrialization of the Franconian Forest, particularly the Rosenthal paper mill, an extension of the line through the Höllental Valley to Marxgrün was planned. From 1900 to 1901, 250 workers built the 6.3-kilometer-long Höllental Railway from Marxgrün via Hölle, through the valley, and via Blechschmidtenhammer to Blankenstein. On August 14, 1901, the first train ran through the Höllental Valley. In April 1945, the last train ran on the Höllental Railway. The inner-German border marked the end of the connection between Bavaria and Thuringia. In 1971, freight traffic to Blechschmidtenhammer ended on the Bavarian side. Around ten years later, the German Federal Railway had the tracks in the Höllental Valley torn out. The old train station building in Blechschmidtenhammer has been preserved and is now the information center of the Franconian Forest Nature Park.
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It goes 10 km uphill, but never steep
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The cycle path crosses a former railway bridge
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Personally, I would have much preferred a roundabout there rather than another traffic light... ;-)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Bad Steben?
Bad Steben offers an extensive network with over 90 touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various preferences, ranging from easy paths to more challenging rides with significant elevation changes.
Are there touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Bad Steben?
Yes, Bad Steben provides options for all skill levels. There are 14 easy routes perfect for beginners or families looking for a relaxed ride. For example, the Selbitz Cycle Path – Höllensprudel Spring House loop from Bad Steben is an easy 12.8-mile (20.6 km) trail that follows the scenic Selbitz river valley.
What kind of landscapes and natural features can I expect to see while cycling in Bad Steben?
The region around Bad Steben is characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and picturesque river valleys within the Franconian Forest Nature Park. A notable highlight is the wild and romantic "Höllental" (Hell Valley), through which the Selbitz river flows. You can also experience views of the Franconian Forest and Fichtel Mountains from elevated points.
Are there any specific landmarks or viewpoints along the cycling routes?
Yes, several routes offer access to interesting landmarks and viewpoints. You might pass by the historic Rock Path Höllental or catch views of the Höllental (Frankenwald Nature Park). The Frankenwarte Observation Tower – Bad Steben spa park and cafés loop from Bad Steben route, for instance, includes the Frankenwarte Observation Tower, offering panoramic vistas.
Can I find circular touring cycling routes in Bad Steben?
Absolutely. Many routes in Bad Steben are designed as circular paths, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Tour zur Kur, a 21.2-mile (34.1 km) loop, and the Jungfernsteg Bridge – Höllental along the Selbitz loop from Bad Steben, a more challenging 19.7-mile (31.7 km) option.
What do other touring cyclists think about the routes in Bad Steben?
The touring cycling routes in Bad Steben are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.3 stars from over 500 reviews. More than 2,000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the scenic beauty and well-maintained paths.
Is there support for e-bikes in Bad Steben?
Yes, Bad Steben is e-bike friendly. The local Tourist Information office offers e-bike rentals, and free charging stations for various battery types are available, making the hilly terrain more accessible for all cyclists.
Are there public transport options to help with cycling routes, especially for longer tours or steep sections?
Yes, the "Frankenwaldmobil" bicycle buses operate seasonally from May to November on weekends and public holidays. These buses run on ten lines, allowing cyclists to bypass steep sections or conveniently return to their accommodation after a ride.
Where can I find places to eat or drink along the cycling routes?
Bad Steben and its surrounding villages offer various cafes, pubs, and restaurants. Many routes, such as the Bad Steben spa park and cafés – South End of Ködeltalsperre loop from Bad Steben, pass through or near the Kurpark Bad Steben, which is considered the heart of the town and features several dining options.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Bad Steben?
The spring and autumn months generally offer pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Bad Steben, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. While cycling is possible in other seasons, spring brings fresh greenery, and autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are there any routes that connect to larger regional cycling networks?
Yes, Bad Steben is integrated into larger cycling networks. The Frankenwald cycling route, for example, offers multi-day tours through the picturesque landscape. Other connected routes include the Main Cycling Route, Castle Road, and the Rennsteig Cycling Route, providing extensive options for exploring the wider region.
Can I bring my dog on the touring cycling routes in Bad Steben?
While specific rules for dogs on every cycling path may vary, generally, dogs are welcome on trails in the Franconian Forest Nature Park, provided they are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them. It's always advisable to check local signage for any specific restrictions on individual routes.
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