The best gravel rides around Höftsee

There are nearly 50 gravel bike routes around Höftsee, offering a diverse range of options for all skill levels. This includes 17 easy, 25 moderate, and 7 difficult trails.

Yes, Höftsee offers several family-friendly options. An excellent choice is the Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel – Prinzenbad Beach, Lake Plön loop. This easy 14.5 km route provides scenic views along Lake Plön and is generally flat, making it suitable for families.

Beginners will find the terrain around Höftsee welcoming. The Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel – Prinzenbad Beach, Lake Plön loop is an easy 14.5 km route, perfect for getting started. Another great option is the Bench with a view of Vierersee – Bismarck Tower Waldshagen loop from Ruhlebener Warder, a 9.5 km trail with gentle elevation changes and lovely lake views.

For those seeking a longer challenge, the Kellersee Lakeside Trails – Great Eutin Lake loop from Plön is a moderate 52 km route that takes you through varied landscapes and past multiple lakes. Another substantial option is the Dieksee Promenade – Vierthwes Forest Trail loop from Ruhlebener Warder, a moderate 31.6 km ride.

The routes around Höftsee are rich in natural beauty. You can enjoy expansive lake views, such as from the Bench with a view of Behlersee and Höftsee. Many trails, like the Forest path along the Höftsee, wind through woodlands and open countryside. You'll also find highlights like the Shelter at Behlersee and sections of the Plön–Bad Malente–Eutin Cycle Path.

Yes, many of the gravel routes around Höftsee are designed as loops, making planning easier. Examples include the popular Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel – Prinzenbad Beach, Lake Plön loop, the scenic View of Behler See – View of Lake Dieksee loop from Ruhlebener Warder, and the longer Kellersee Lakeside Trails – Great Eutin Lake loop from Plön.

The Höftsee region is beautiful for gravel biking from spring through autumn. Spring brings blooming nature, while summer offers pleasant temperatures for lakeside rides. Autumn provides stunning foliage. While winter biking is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially icy or muddy conditions on unpaved sections.

The gravel biking routes around Höftsee are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 180 reviews. Riders frequently praise the diverse landscapes, the well-maintained paths, and the abundance of scenic lake views.

While specific cafes are not listed for every route, the Höftsee region, being a popular tourist area with towns like Plön and Malente nearby, offers various opportunities for refreshments. Many routes pass through or near these towns, where you can find cafes, restaurants, and bakeries to refuel.

Parking is generally available in the towns and villages surrounding Höftsee, such as Plön, Malente, and areas near Ruhlebener Warder, which serve as common starting points for many routes. Look for designated parking areas near trailheads or public parking in these localities.

Many of the natural trails and forest paths around Höftsee are suitable for cycling with dogs, provided they are well-behaved and kept on a leash, especially in nature protection areas or near wildlife. Always be mindful of other trail users and local regulations regarding dogs in specific areas.

The trails around Höftsee feature a mix of surfaces, including well-maintained gravel paths, forest tracks, and some paved sections connecting different areas. The terrain is generally gently rolling, with moderate elevation changes, making for varied and engaging rides. Conditions can vary with weather, so expect some muddy sections after rain.