4.7
(107)
1,276
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: October 12, 2026
4.8
(4)
13
riders
17.9km
00:55
260m
260m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
3
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

5.0
(3)
16
riders
15.0km
00:40
150m
150m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.5
(2)
9
riders
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
6
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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The diabase quarry at Steinbühl is a well-known old quarry lake near Naila in Upper Franconia (Bavaria). Swimming in the quarry lake is not permitted or is not suitable. The lake is Station 2 of the approximately 7-kilometer long Geopfad Naila, which offers insights into the regional geology (diabase, picrite rocks, and diabase breccias).
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Formerly part of the Naila–Schwarzenbach railway line; the route was converted into a cycle and hiking path
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Dams are built to utilize water for hydropower plants, to keep the water level constant for fish or shipping, or to prevent floods.
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The Steinerne Rennsteig hiker’s monument at the Blankenstein train station on the Rennsteig honors the tourist development of the famous ridge trail. It significantly commemorates August Trinius – the writer who first described the Rennsteig in a continuous hiking report in 1890, as well as the Rennsteigverein.
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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.
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The Luther Church is the main church of the Evangelical Lutheran parish of Bad Steben in Upper Franconia. The church was built between 1908 and 1910. Along with St. Paul's Church in Ulm, it was one of the first two churches in Germany to make extensive use of reinforced concrete as exposed concrete. It has 1,250 seats and has been called the Luther Church since 1985. Opening hours: May – October: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. November – April: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
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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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