4.6
(37)
279
riders
79
rides
Gravel biking around Simmelsdorf offers diverse terrain within Bavaria's Nürnberger Land district. The region is characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and meandering rivers, providing varied landscapes for exploration. Its position within the Franconian Switzerland-Veldenstein Forest Nature Park ensures a rich natural environment with numerous cycling opportunities. This area features a mix of paved surfaces, forest paths, and country roads, well-suited for gravel bikes.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
3.0
(1)
4
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
28.2km
01:46
320m
320m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
33.3km
02:18
500m
500m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Traffic-free bike rides around Simmelsdorf
Traffic-free bike rides around Simmelsdorf
A beautiful town, this Gräfenberg.
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Great market square with all the shops you need, a cafe, a fountain and various half-timbered houses
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The castle was originally built in the 14th century as a moated castle and has been owned by the patrician Tucher von Simmelsdorf family since 1598. The castle was rebuilt from 1830 to 1841 according to a design by Leonhard Schmidtner. It consists of a stone ground floor and a wooden framework above it, which is covered with a high half-hipped roof. The castle is located in a former pond and moat complex, which was later converted into a landscape garden in the English style.
1
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This is the terminus of the Gräfenbergbahn.
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A decent climb that gets steeper towards the end. Nice to ride, but still a good challenge
1
1
Very worth seeing, you have to see it
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Half-timbered houses, a picturesque town gate and a castle at an impressive height above the town. Hilpoltstein combines many of the things that make up Franconian Switzerland.
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There are nearly 80 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Simmelsdorf. These routes offer a diverse range of experiences, with over 40 routes rated as moderate and 34 as difficult, ensuring options for various skill levels.
The terrain around Simmelsdorf is quite varied, perfect for gravel biking. You'll encounter picturesque landscapes with rolling hills, dense forests, and meandering rivers. Routes often combine paved surfaces, forest paths, and quiet country roads, providing a mix of climbs, descents, and scenic stretches through natural settings.
While many routes offer a challenge, the focus on 'no traffic' makes many trails suitable for families looking for a safer cycling environment. We recommend checking the individual route details for difficulty and elevation to find the best fit for your family. Look for routes rated as 'easy' or 'moderate' for a more relaxed experience.
Simmelsdorf is rich in natural beauty. You can explore wonders like the Lillach Tufa Terraces and the serene Lillach Spring, especially vibrant after rain. The Glatzenstein rock massif offers magnificent panoramic views from its platform, and the geological feature of the Bitterbach Gorge is another significant natural attraction. You can find stunning views from places like View from Glatzenstein.
Yes, the region blends natural beauty with historical significance. You might pass by sites such as the Rothenberg Castle Stables, dating back to the 11th century, or the impressive baroque garden of Reichenschwand Castle. The Moated Castle of Henfenfeld and the Tucher Castle are also part of the area's heritage. The Rothenberg Fortress is a notable historical site.
The best seasons for gravel biking in Simmelsdorf are generally from spring to autumn. During these months, the weather is most favorable for enjoying the trails and exploring the region's natural and historical gems. Spring brings lush greenery, while autumn offers beautiful foliage.
Many of the no-traffic gravel routes around Simmelsdorf are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. For example, the "Gräfenberg Old Town – Hiltpoltstein Castle loop from Simmelsdorf-Hüttenbach" offers a scenic circular tour. Always check the route details for specific start/end points and loop information.
While specific parking information varies by route, many trailheads and starting points in and around Simmelsdorf, including villages like Simmelsdorf-Hüttenbach or Wildenfels, offer designated parking areas. It's advisable to check the individual route descriptions on komoot for recommended parking locations near your chosen starting point.
The gravel biking experience in Simmelsdorf is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the trails, the diverse and scenic landscapes, and the rewarding views from various viewpoints like Glatzenstein. The mix of forest paths and country roads is frequently highlighted as ideal for gravel bikes.
For a moderate challenge with beautiful scenery, consider the "Hiltpoltstein Castle – St. Martin Chapel loop from Wildenfels". This route covers about 28 km with manageable elevation changes, offering a great way to experience the region's charm without heavy traffic.
Experienced riders looking for a challenge will find several difficult routes. The "Hiltpoltstein Castle – Peace Linden loop from Simmelsdorf" is a great option, spanning over 33 km with significant elevation gain, providing a demanding yet rewarding ride through the varied terrain of Simmelsdorf.


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