4.3
(16)
54
riders
18
rides
Gravel biking in Dattenhauser Ried features routes through river valleys and agricultural landscapes, traversing a unique wetland area. The region is characterized by its flat, moor-like terrain, which includes both well-maintained gravel paths and less developed field paths. While many trails offer gentle gradients, some routes towards the edges of the Ried include more significant elevation changes. This diverse landscape provides varied experiences for gravel bikers, from serene riverside paths along the Brenz to open fields connecting small towns.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
2
riders
35.5km
02:09
290m
300m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
1
riders
Hard gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
3.5
(2)
4
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The 1,000 mm gauge Härtsfeld Railway from Neresheim to Dillingen/Donau served the Härtsfeld on the eastern Swabian Jura in Baden-Württemberg from 1901 until its closure in 1972. After the closure of the "Schättere", the track facilities were completely dismantled and the vehicles scrapped. In 1984, the "Freundeskreis Schättere" was formed, which emerged a year later as the Härtsfeld-Museumsbahn e.V. (HMB). Original vehicles and some identically constructed vehicles were purchased and restored, tracks and switches were laid, and a museum was established in the former Neresheim station building. On May 16, 1996, the first groundbreaking ceremony for the reconstruction of the first, 3 km long section took place, which was then officially opened on October 20, 2001, on the hundredth birthday of the railway. A second section of approx. 2.6 km to the Härtsfeldsee was built between 2007 and 2021 and officially opened on August 1, 2021. The third section to Dischingen is yet to be built. From June 20 - 21, 2026, the 1,000 mm gauge tank locomotive "RUR"🚂 from the Selfkantbahn narrow-gauge railway museum in Gangelt-Schierwaldenrath was a guest. It was built in 1899 by the Henschel & Sohn locomotive factory in Kassel for the Dürener Dampfstraßenbahn (Düren Steam Tramway). It is one of the few surviving tank steam locomotives developed for inner-city tram operation. After its later conversion to a steam storage locomotive, it served as a works locomotive in the Schoeller paper mill in Birkesdorf before coming to the Selfkantbahn in 1972 as a non-operational exhibit. Its handover to the partner company KLEINBAAN Service of the Dutch narrow-gauge enthusiast Wim Pater in 2013 enabled its complete restoration to its original condition as a fired wet steam locomotive. The RUR is the only surviving steam locomotive of the formerly eight 1,000 mm gauge narrow-gauge railways in the Rhenish Bay and, at 126 years old, is the oldest operational steam locomotive in the Rhineland. It is based at the Selfkantbahn and runs on selected operating days and makes guest appearances at other 1,000 mm gauge museum railways.
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The renaturalization was very successful. There are some very beautiful spots with rest areas.
0
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Beautiful path, good for walking or cycling.
0
0
Very nice tour through the valley and great stop at the Pfannental Haus
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The Brenz still has something natural about it!
1
0
The strength of the walls and the view are impressive.
1
0
Dattenhauser Ried offers a diverse network of over 25 gravel bike trails. These routes cater to various skill levels, including easy, moderate, and difficult options.
Yes, Dattenhauser Ried has several easy and moderate routes that are suitable for beginners and families. While specific 'family-friendly' routes aren't explicitly tagged, routes with less elevation gain and shorter distances, often along river paths, are generally more accessible. For instance, the Brenz Riverside Trail in Bächingen – Brenz River loop from Lauingen is a moderate option that follows the river, offering scenic views with manageable terrain.
The best time for gravel biking in Dattenhauser Ried is typically from spring through autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild, and the trails are in good condition. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially muddy or icy sections, especially on unpaved paths.
Absolutely. For experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, Dattenhauser Ried offers several difficult routes with significant elevation gain. A notable option is the Oberthürheim Chapel – Ludwigschwaige Chapel loop from Lauingen, which spans over 78 miles (126 km) and features substantial climbing, often taking nearly 9 hours to complete.
Many gravel routes in Dattenhauser Ried start from towns like Lauingen or Zöschingen, where public parking is generally available. It's advisable to check local parking options in these starting points before your ride. For example, routes like the Brenz Mill Hermaringen – Local History Museum Herbrechtingen loop from Zöschingen typically have parking facilities near their starting points.
While direct access to all trailheads by public transport might be limited, larger towns in and around Dattenhauser Ried, such as Lauingen, are connected by regional bus or train services. From these towns, you may be able to cycle to nearby trail starting points. We recommend checking local public transport schedules for specific connections to your chosen starting location.
Yes, many of the gravel bike trails in Dattenhauser Ried are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Günzburg Old Town – Günzburg Market Square loop from Lauingen and the Western shore of the Härtsfeldsee – View of Neresheim Abbey loop from Lauingen, providing convenient circular journeys.
Gravel biking in Dattenhauser Ried offers diverse scenery, including picturesque river valleys, expansive agricultural fields, and charming small towns. You'll encounter paths along the Brenz River, open landscapes, and routes that connect historical sites and chapels, providing a mix of natural beauty and cultural interest.
Yes, as many routes pass through or near small towns and villages, you will often find opportunities to stop at local cafes, bakeries, or pubs. These establishments offer a chance to refuel and experience local hospitality. Planning your route with komoot allows you to identify such points of interest along the way.
The gravel biking experience in Dattenhauser Ried is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 20 reviews. Riders frequently praise the varied terrain, the scenic river paths, and the opportunity to explore historical sites and charming villages along the routes.
Yes, several gravel routes in Dattenhauser Ried incorporate historical landmarks. For example, the Brenz Mill Hermaringen – Local History Museum Herbrechtingen loop from Zöschingen connects historical sites. Other routes, like the Oberthürheim Chapel – Ludwigschwaige Chapel loop from Lauingen, lead through landscapes dotted with chapels, offering cultural points of interest during your ride.


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