4.5
(369)
4,168
riders
258
rides
Road cycling around Hörsel is characterized by its diverse terrain, featuring rolling hills and verdant forests. The region is situated near the Hörsel River, offering routes that trace its path through the landscape. Proximity to the Thuringian Forest provides opportunities for more challenging ascents and varied scenery. Well-maintained cycling infrastructure supports a range of road cycling experiences.
Last updated: October 25, 2026
4.1
(20)
84
riders
61.1km
02:47
600m
600m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(13)
70
riders
47.3km
02:33
870m
870m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.

5.0
(3)
43
riders
43.6km
02:09
500m
500m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(4)
37
riders
54.7km
03:01
1,040m
1,040m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
45
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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The Schilfwassergraben, usually just called Schilfwasser, is a small stream in the Gotha district on the northern edge of the Thuringian Forest. It rises below the Rennsteig at the Kleiner Jagdberg and flows through the Kühle Tal and Friedrichroda to Ernstroda. After about eleven kilometers, it flows into the Leina. Its course is characterized by wooded slopes, meadows, and the rural landscape around Ernstroda.
1
0
The Schilfwassergraben is a small stream that flows through Ernstroda.
7
0
Masterpiece of engineering, fascinating in its grandeur
1
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A beautiful park in Friedrichroda, with many opportunities for recreation.
7
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You ride here on the former railway line.
10
0
Small visitor mine, guided tours are also offered.
0
0
A wonderful view upwards to the highway bridge.
1
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Currently, there is a good view from up here of the old railway viaduct over the Schmalkalde and the tunnel portal.
0
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Hörsel offers a diverse range of road cycling routes, characterized by rolling hills and verdant forests. You'll find routes that trace the scenic Hörsel River, as well as more challenging ascents closer to the Thuringian Forest. The area features a mix of easy, moderate, and difficult trails, catering to various skill levels.
There are over 10 road cycling routes available in the Hörsel area. These include 4 easy routes, 8 moderate routes, and 2 more difficult options, providing a good selection for different preferences and fitness levels.
Yes, Hörsel has several easy road cycling routes. For a relaxed ride through the local countryside, consider the Roadbike loop from Hörselgau, which covers 22.2 miles (35.8 km) with gentler terrain.
For more challenging rides, head towards the Thuringian Forest. The Heuberghaus – View of Großer Inselsberg loop from Laucha is a difficult 34.2 miles (55.0 km) trail that leads through rolling hills and offers views towards the Thuringian Forest, featuring significant elevation gain.
Spring and summer are ideal for road cycling in Hörsel. The weather is pleasantly warm, and the natural scenery is in full bloom, offering vibrant colors and comfortable riding conditions. While cycling is possible year-round, these seasons provide the most enjoyable experience.
Absolutely. Many routes offer picturesque views. You can find stunning vistas from places like the Great Inselsberg or the Hirschstein Viewpoint. The Heuberghaus – View of Großer Inselsberg loop from Laucha specifically highlights views towards the Thuringian Forest.
Beyond the natural beauty, you can integrate cultural stops into your rides. Routes through areas like the Thuringian Forest often pass by historic villages and impressive castles. Notable natural landmarks include the Great Inselsberg and the Bärenbruchsgraben Gorge.
Yes, many of the road cycling routes in Hörsel are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the popular Winterstein Castle Ruins – Ruhla Ski Jump loop from Mechterstädt and the Roadbike loop from Hörselgau.
The road cycling routes in Hörsel are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, well-maintained paths, and the beautiful natural scenery, especially along the Hörsel River.
Gotha, a nearby town, serves as a convenient starting point for many cycling tours in the Hörsel area and is generally well-connected by public transport, including train services. From Gotha, you can easily cycle to various route starting points.
While specific parking details for every trailhead are not listed, towns like Gotha, which serve as common starting points, typically offer parking facilities. When planning your route, it's advisable to check parking availability at your chosen starting location.
Yes, a popular cycling route traces the path of the Hörsel River. These routes offer breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside on well-maintained cycle paths, providing a relaxed experience away from heavy traffic.


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