The best traffic-free bike rides around Selm

There are currently 12 curated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Selm, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. These routes are designed to keep you away from busy roads, allowing for a peaceful ride through the region's natural beauty.

The gravel trails around Selm offer a diverse mix of terrain. You'll find well-maintained paths along disused canal sections like the Alte Fahrt between Datteln and Olfen, expansive natural trails within the Hohe Mark-Westmünsterland Nature Park, and scenic routes through forests and rolling hills. This variety ensures an engaging experience for gravel cyclists.

Yes, Selm offers several beginner-friendly no-traffic gravel routes. These typically feature flatter sections and well-maintained surfaces, perfect for those new to gravel biking or looking for a relaxed ride. Many routes along canal paths or through less hilly forest areas are ideal for beginners.

Absolutely. While many routes are moderate, some trails incorporate more elevation gain and varied surfaces, providing a good challenge for experienced gravel bikers. For example, the Beversee – Forest trail in Beversee Nature Reserve loop from Selm-Beifang offers over 300 meters of elevation gain across its 60 km, providing a more demanding ride.

The trails often lead through the beautiful Hohe Mark-Westmünsterland Nature Park, offering views of forests, lakes, and waterways. You can explore sections of the historic Alte Fahrt between Datteln and Olfen, or ride past picturesque bodies of water like Klutensee and Hullerner Lake. Some routes might even bring you close to historical sites like the moated castles of Burg Vischering or Schloss Nordkirchen, adding cultural enrichment to your ride.

Many routes in the Selm area incorporate scenic lakes and waterways. For instance, the Southeastern shore of Klutensee – Dortmund-Ems Canal Cycle Path loop from Selm-Beifang takes you along the shores of Klutensee and the Dortmund-Ems Canal. Another great option is the View of Hullerner Lake – Hullern Reservoir loop from Bork (Westf), offering beautiful lakeside views.

Many of the no-traffic gravel trails, especially those along canal paths or through less challenging forest sections, are suitable for families. The quiet environment and varied scenery also make them enjoyable for rides with well-behaved dogs, provided they are kept on a leash where required and you adhere to local regulations regarding nature reserves.

Yes, the majority of the gravel bike routes around Selm are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end your ride at the same point. This makes planning your trip convenient, as you won't need to arrange for transport back to your starting location. Examples include the Dortmund-Ems Canal Cycle Path – Dortmund-Ems Canal at Senden loop from Selm-Beifang and the Max-von-der-Grün Trail – Cycle path along the Massener Bach loop from Wälder bei Cappenberg-West.

For most routes, you can find parking in or near the starting towns like Selm-Beifang or Bork (Westf). Many trailheads or nearby public areas offer parking facilities. It's always a good idea to check the specific route details on komoot for recommended starting points and parking information.

Selm and its surrounding towns are generally accessible by public transport, primarily regional train and bus services. You can often reach a starting point near a trail by taking a train to Selm station or a bus to one of the smaller villages. Check local public transport schedules for the most convenient connections, especially if you plan to bring your bike on board.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.48 stars from over 280 ratings. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the no-traffic routes, the diverse natural landscapes of the Hohe Mark-Westmünsterland Nature Park, and the well-maintained paths along canals and through forests, which offer a perfect escape from urban hustle.