4.5
(5889)
38,972
riders
1,056
rides
Touring cycling in Köschinger Forst offers an extensive network of routes through a sprawling 7000-hectare forest in Bavaria, Germany. The region, part of the Altmühltal Nature Park, is characterized by dense forests of spruce, oak, and beech, alongside diverse terrain. Cyclists will find a mix of paved sections, gravel paths, unpaved tracks, and quiet roads, providing varied experiences for different preferences. The landscape also features tranquil streams like the Schambach and gentle elevation changes.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
4.8
(37)
158
riders
38.4km
02:44
410m
400m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
23
riders
18.8km
01:18
100m
100m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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29
riders
12.0km
00:45
130m
130m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(11)
28
riders
24.8km
01:41
230m
230m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
19
riders
43.0km
02:35
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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There is also an information board for the Schambachtalbahn cycle path
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Schamhaupten Castle A three-story, steeply roofed manor house in neo-Gothic style, with a stepped gable and side bay turrets, the core of which dates back to 1784.
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Sandersdorf Castle The present castle dates back to a medieval castle built by the Lords of Sandersdorf as Wittelsbach ministerials. The family has been documented since the 12th century. In 1420, the castle was plundered by Duke Henry of Bavaria-Landshut while he was at war with Duke Ludwig the Bearded of Bavaria-Ingolstadt. In 1425, the castle was granted to the Muggenthal family; the first owner of this family, Erhart von Muggendal, rebuilt it. Hans Heinrich von Muggenthal succeeded in keeping peasant revolts and the Reformation away from his domain. The Sandersdorf Castle Brewery was founded in 1550. The castle was destroyed during the Thirty Years' War; Albrecht Ulrich von Muggenthal had it rebuilt as a four-winged castle by 1646. It retains this form to this day. In 1675, Dominikus de Bassus inherited Sandersdorf Castle, but he witnessed its destruction in 1703 during the War of the Spanish Succession. In May 1787, the castle was searched by Bavarian officials because it was considered an "Illuminati nest." Thomas de Bassus was a member of the Illuminati Order, founded in Ingolstadt by Adam Weishaupt in 1776; his castle was a meeting place for many of the secret society's meetings. Numerous secret documents were confiscated during the search. Around 1900, the castle was partially renovated and refurbished under the direction of the Munich architect Gabriel von Seidl. In 2008, the castle was sold by Margarethe Baroness de Bassus, along with the forest lands, to the Wittelsbach Equalization Fund. In March 2022, the castle was sold to Dr. Horst-Florian Jaeck. Parts of it are to be opened to the public. The richly structured four-winged building complex was built on medieval foundations in the 16th century, rebuilt after destruction in the 17th and 18th centuries, and remodeled in the 19th century. The high main wing faces east; it has high stepped gables on its narrow sides and three oriels with gabled tops on the wide sides facing the valley, in front of which is a kind of moat with two octagonal corner turrets. The lower castle wings to the north and south face west. The castle chapel of St. Joseph, with its octagonal domed tower, is located in the inner courtyard. Source: www.wikipedia.de
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The most beautiful rest stop on the Schambachtal Cycle Path between Ingolstadt and Riedenburg. A pleasant concept, the club station is run entirely by volunteers. And the prices are fantastic: €2.60 for a drink with table service is unmatched anywhere else. Always open on Sundays when the weather is nice. Ideal for a quick stop for coffee and cake. Food is only available in exceptional cases or by prior arrangement.
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The red cross formerly served as a route cross on the old salt road.
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The so-called castle was created from the old tithe barn. It once housed the offices of the BayWa sales office.
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The historic train station is still present on the cycle path.
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Köschinger Forst offers an extensive network of over 1000 touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, with approximately 470 easy, 430 moderate, and 180 difficult options to choose from.
The routes in Köschinger Forst feature diverse terrain, including a mix of paved sections, gravel paths, unpaved tracks, and quiet roads. This variety allows for different cycling preferences, from leisurely rides on asphalt to more adventurous excursions on gravel and forest tracks. Some routes also include challenging sections with gradients up to 17%.
Yes, Köschinger Forst offers many routes suitable for families. With over 470 easy routes, you can find paths with gentle elevation changes and varied surfaces that are enjoyable for all ages. The extensive network allows for choosing routes that match your family's comfort level.
Cyclists can discover several interesting natural features and landmarks. The tranquil Schambach Spring and Historic Watermill is a picturesque spot for a break. You might also encounter the unique Camino Art Trees in a mossy clearing, featuring artworks in tall conifer trees. Historically significant sites like the Rotes Kreuz Wayside Cross, an old salt road marker, also dot the landscape.
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Köschinger Forst are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Schambachtalbahn Cycle Path – Schambachtalbahnweg Cycle Path loop from Schamhaupten, which takes you through the scenic Altmühltal Nature Park.
The Köschinger Waldhaus beer garden is a popular excursion destination located at the heart of the former Wittelsbach hunting grounds. It's known for its wild game specialties and is a perfect spot for a meal or refreshment after your ride.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 5,800 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, the extensive network of well-maintained paths, and the tranquil natural environment of the Altmühltal Nature Park.
The Köschinger Forst is generally enjoyable for touring cycling from spring through autumn. The dense forests offer pleasant shade during warmer months, and the varied terrain is well-suited for cycling in mild conditions. Winter cycling is possible, but conditions may vary, and some paths might be less accessible.
Absolutely. The region is rich in history. For example, the View of Prunn Castle – View of Kelheim's city gates loop from Schamhaupten offers scenic vistas that include historic landmarks. Another route, Sandersdorf Castle – Schamhaupten Castle loop from Denkendorftunnel, takes you past impressive castles.
Route lengths vary significantly. You can find shorter rides, such as the Riedenburg Old Town – Riedenburg Old Town loop from Schamhaupten, which is about 38.5 km (23.9 miles) and takes under 3 hours. Longer trips, like the "Kösching - Greding - Beilngries - Pondorf - Bahnstrecke - Kösching" route, can span over 100 km with significant elevation changes, offering options for extended tours.
While the region is primarily accessed by car, some areas within the Altmühltal Nature Park may have limited public transport connections. It's advisable to check local bus or train schedules to see if they align with your chosen starting points for cycling routes.
Yes, there are various parking options available near popular trailheads and attractions within Köschinger Forst. Many routes, especially those starting from towns like Schamhaupten or Sandersdorf, will have designated parking areas suitable for cyclists.


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