4.5
(5854)
31,245
riders
470
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Reichenschwand traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills and the picturesque Pegnitz River valley, situated at the gateway to the Hersbrucker Schweiz within the Franconian Alb. The region offers diverse terrain, from well-paved paths along river meadows to more challenging routes through low mountain ranges. Cyclists can explore historic villages and natural features, with many routes designed to minimize car traffic. The area's varied topography provides options for different skill levels, making it suitable…
Last updated: July 11, 2026
4.9
(11)
66
riders
23.1km
01:35
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(13)
35
riders
25.4km
01:47
260m
260m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.3
(34)
114
riders
40.8km
02:38
330m
330m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(7)
33
riders
24.1km
01:36
300m
300m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.3
(4)
44
riders
11.4km
00:39
50m
50m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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In the years 1356 - 1360, the then Emperor Charles IV had a stately castle built on the small island on the Pegnitz. It served as a resting place on the way from Nuremberg to the imperial residence in Prague. The coat of arms hall is a stone testament to his power: 112 colorfully painted coat of arms shields of Bohemian noble families are carved into the wall. They were skillfully carved and painted into the sandstone by stonemasons. The coat of arms friezes are among the highest achievements of medieval heraldry.
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The castle was built between 1356 and 1360 by Emperor Charles IV. It was strategically located on the "Golden Road", the important trade route between Nuremberg and Prague. Charles IV used it as a stopover castle and residence to consolidate his claims to power in the region. Today, it houses an external campus of the Nuremberg Academy of Fine Arts.
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The Hersbrucker Tor is one of the two still preserved city gates of Lauf an der Pegnitz and marks the eastern end of the historic market square. The gate was originally built in the 15th century as part of the town fortifications, shortly after Lauf was elevated to a city by Emperor Charles IV in 1355. In its current form, the structure essentially dates from 1476, as inscriptions also indicate.
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From here you can see the Moritzberg wonderfully and you are already very close to it
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Run is absolutely worth seeing 🫶🏻⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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There are nearly 500 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Reichenschwand. This extensive network ensures a wide variety of options for cyclists looking to explore the beautiful landscapes of the Hersbrucker Schweiz and Franconian Alb without car interference.
The routes offer a good mix of difficulties. You'll find approximately 140 easy routes, around 200 moderate routes, and about 150 more challenging options. This variety caters to cyclists of all experience levels, from beginners to advanced riders seeking more strenuous climbs.
Spring and summer are generally considered the best seasons for touring cycling in Reichenschwand. During these months, you can expect mild climates and blooming nature, making for a particularly scenic and enjoyable ride through the rolling hills and river valleys.
Yes, the region is rich in natural beauty. Many routes follow the picturesque Pegnitz River, offering serene views. You can also find impressive natural monuments like the Hohler Fels cave and the Glatzenstein rock massif, which provides wonderful vistas. The View of Happurger See from Hohler Fels is a particularly popular viewpoint. The Schlossberg also offers expansive views of the valley and the Pegnitzauen.
Beyond natural features, you can discover historic and cultural stops. Within Reichenschwand, you might see Reichenschwand Castle or the St. Laurentius Church. The nearby town of Hersbruck also offers various museums. For specific natural attractions, consider visiting the Bitterbach Gorge or the Klingender Waterfall.
Yes, there are many easy routes perfect for families and beginners. An example is the Playground and skatepark loop from Reichenschwand, which is a shorter, easy ride. The well-paved paths along the Pegnitz River also offer gentle terrain suitable for all ages.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from 39 ratings. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the peaceful no-traffic environment, and the well-maintained paths that make for a smooth cycling experience through the Franconian Alb.
Yes, many of the no-traffic routes are designed as circular tours, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, the Great Birch Lake – Scherauer Pond loop from Henfenfeld is a moderate circular route that takes you through varied scenery.
Parking is generally available in and around Reichenschwand, especially near popular starting points for cycling routes. Many villages in the region, including Lauf an der Pegnitz and Hersbruck, also offer parking facilities, often close to the Pegnitz River, which is a central feature for many routes.
Reichenschwand and surrounding towns like Lauf an der Pegnitz are connected by public transport, making it possible to reach starting points for many routes. The Pegnitz River valley, a popular cycling corridor, is well-served by local train lines, allowing for convenient access with your bike.
Absolutely. The Pegnitz River is a prominent feature of the region, and many no-traffic routes, such as Out and about on the Pegnitz terraces, follow its course. Cycling along the Pegnitz allows riders to experience the beauty of nature while passing through historic villages and the scenic Pegnitzauen (meadows).
While there are many routes of varying lengths, the Great Birch Lake – Scherauer Pond loop from Henfenfeld is one of the longer options listed, covering approximately 40 kilometers. The region also connects to parts of the longer 'Five Rivers Cycle Route', offering extended touring possibilities.


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