The best gravel rides in the Vulkaneifel

The Vulkaneifel region offers a wide selection of gravel biking routes, with over 95 trails available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, from moderate to difficult.

The Vulkaneifel's unique volcanic past means you'll encounter diverse terrain. Expect a mix of hills, extensive woodlands, picturesque river valleys, and routes that wind past maars (explosion crater lakes) and volcanic formations. Many routes utilize excellent gravel roads, with some incorporating sections of former railway lines, including tunnels.

While many routes in the Vulkaneifel are classified as difficult or moderate due to the hilly volcanic landscape, there are options for less experienced riders. komoot lists 1 easy route and 30 moderate routes, offering a gentler introduction to gravel biking in the region. These routes often feature less elevation gain and smoother surfaces.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Vulkaneifel offers numerous difficult routes with significant elevation gain. An example is the Lieser Cycle Path – Grünewald Viaduct loop from Daun, which covers over 100 km and features more than 1000 meters of ascent. These routes often traverse secluded forest areas and steep mountain slopes.

Gravel bike routes in the Vulkaneifel vary significantly in length and duration. You can find shorter rides, such as the Großes Schlitzohr Tunnel – Großes Schlitzohr Tunnel loop from Daun at 24.2 km (approx. 2 hours 18 minutes), to much longer tours like the Lieser Cycle Path – Grünewald Viaduct loop from Daun, which is over 100 km and can take more than 7 hours to complete.

Yes, many gravel bike routes in the Vulkaneifel are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the Hillesheim City Wall – Kerpen Castle loop from Steinborn is a 50 km circular route that takes you through historic areas.

The Vulkaneifel is rich in natural and historical attractions. Many routes offer views of the region's signature maars, such as the Schalkenmehrener Maar and Weinfelder Maar. You can also encounter historic castles like Kerpen Castle or the Freudenkoppe Castle Ruins. Additionally, the region features unique volcanic caves like the Millstone Cave at Nerother Kopf.

The Vulkaneifel is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 80 reviews. Riders often praise the unique volcanic landscapes, the variety of terrain, and the excellent gravel roads that wind through idyllic villages and past stunning natural features like the maars and dense woodlands.

While many routes are challenging, the Vulkaneifel does offer options that can be enjoyed by families, especially those with some cycling experience. Look for shorter, less steep routes, particularly those that follow former railway lines or flatter river valleys. Always check the route's difficulty and elevation profile to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.

Yes, some gravel routes in the Vulkaneifel incorporate sections of former railway lines, which include tunnels. The Großes Schlitzohr Tunnel – Großes Schlitzohr Tunnel loop from Daun is a popular example that features these characteristic tunnels, offering a unique riding experience.

The Vulkaneifel is generally enjoyable for gravel biking from spring through autumn. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming landscapes, while autumn offers vibrant fall colors. Summer can be pleasant, but it's advisable to start earlier in the day to avoid the midday heat. Winter biking is possible, but conditions can be challenging with snow and ice, especially on higher elevations and shaded forest paths.

Absolutely. The maars are a defining feature of the Vulkaneifel, and many gravel routes are designed to showcase them. The View of the Schalkenmehrener Maar – Weinfelder Maar loop from Daun is a prime example, offering stunning vistas of these unique crater lakes.