4.7
(91)
1,204
riders
18
rides
No traffic road cycling routes in Höllental primarily traverse the scenic Franconian Forest, a region characterized by a narrow valley carved by the Selbitz River. The terrain features dense woodlands, impressive rock formations, and scenic forest passages. A key highlight for road cyclists is the Höllentalstraße, a private road closed to motor vehicles, offering a serene cycling experience. The area provides varied elevation profiles, from gentle river-side paths to more challenging climbs through the forest.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
5.0
(2)
10
riders
18.1km
00:54
270m
270m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
3
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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1.0
(1)
20
riders
19.6km
00:53
200m
200m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
7
riders
17.2km
01:04
280m
280m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
7
riders
28.4km
01:26
350m
350m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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This old quarry impressed me a lot.
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A very beautiful small church.
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This guesthouse is an absolute insider tip.
2
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An excellent cycle path on the former railway line. It's almost completely flat, free of potholes and uneven surfaces. The route is also relatively quiet, making it ideal for really picking up speed. The surrounding scenery is particularly charming. Overall, this cycle path is highly recommended.
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St. Leonhard's Church in Köditz is an Evangelical Lutheran parish church in the center of the Upper Franconian municipality of Köditz. Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leonhardskirche_(K%C3%B6ditz)
11
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A little reminder that you are traveling on a former railway line.
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The Prince Regent Luitpold Monument in the church park was restored in 2020. Grateful, citizens dedicated this memorial to the Bavarian ruler and patron of Bad Steben on August 10, 1913. During his reign, the spa facilities were expanded and the spa gardens were created.
14
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There are 18 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes in Höllental listed on komoot. These routes offer a variety of experiences, with 3 easy, 10 moderate, and 5 difficult options to choose from.
The Höllental in the Franconian Forest is particularly well-suited for traffic-free road cycling due to the presence of the Höllentalstraße. This private road is closed to motor vehicles but accessible to cyclists and walkers, providing a serene environment for exploring the narrow valley carved by the Selbitz River and the surrounding dense forest.
Yes, there are 3 easy routes perfect for beginners or families. One such route is the Adelskammer Inn – Luther Church, Bad Steben loop from Lichtenberg, which covers 18.3 km with moderate elevation gain, making it a pleasant ride through the scenic landscape.
The terrain primarily consists of paved roads, as is typical for road cycling. You'll navigate through the narrow valley alongside the Selbitz River, with some routes featuring scenic forest passages and varying elevation changes. The car-free nature of the Höllentalstraße ensures a smooth and uninterrupted ride.
The Höllental is rich in natural beauty. You can expect to see impressive viewpoints like König David, Hirschsprung, and Drachenfels. The valley itself is carved by the Selbitz River, and you might encounter unique geological features like fossilized pillow lava and dolerite rock formations. Don't miss the Höllental (Frankenwald Nature Park) for its stunning gorge scenery.
Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Steinbühl Quarry Lake – Selbitz Weir loop from Naila is a moderate 19.6 km circular route that offers a great experience without traffic.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the car-free Höllentalstraße, the beautiful natural scenery of the Franconian Forest, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable and safe cycling experience.
While the Höllentalstraße is accessible to walkers and cyclists, specific regulations regarding dogs on cycling routes within the nature reserve can vary. It's generally advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially in protected areas. Always check local signage for any specific restrictions.
Absolutely! The Höllental offers several interesting sights. You can visit the Jungfernsteg, a covered wooden bridge over the Selbitz, or see the impressive Selbitz Viaduct (Höllental Railway). The View of the Höllental and Lichtenberg castle ruins also offers a great photo opportunity.
Spring, summer, and early autumn generally offer the best conditions for road cycling in Höllental. During these seasons, the weather is typically mild, and the natural scenery of the Franconian Forest is at its most vibrant. Winter cycling might be possible, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially icy conditions on some sections.
Parking is typically available at the entry points to the Höllental or in nearby villages such as Lichtenberg or Naila, which serve as common starting points for many routes. Always look for designated parking areas to ensure you're not obstructing local access or nature reserve regulations.


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