The best traffic-free bike rides around Dettingen an der Erms
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No traffic touring cycling routes around Dettingen an der Erms are set within the Swabian Jura, a region characterized by rolling hills, lush valleys, and dense forests. The town itself lies in the upper Erms Valley, where the Erms River creates gentle terrain suitable for cycling. This area is part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Swabian Alb, offering diverse landscapes from river paths to the more challenging ascents of the Alb plateau. The region is also known for its cherry…
Last updated: May 15, 2026
4.7
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Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
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Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(24)
165
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
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179
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Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
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Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The Kaltentalweiher wetland was designed in the 1976 nature conservation year as a contribution by the Baden-Württemberg State Forestry Administration to the "Protection of European Wetlands" program and was created between 1977 and 1979. In an elongated oval, the wetland with its natural bays blends harmoniously into the floodplain. Even the main dam is so cleverly hidden in a shallow embankment that it does not disturb the natural landscape. The pond is about 300 meters long and 80 meters wide. Without the small island, its water surface is about 1.1 hectares. Many rare animal species have settled in the wetland. An excellent observation area has been created here for those interested in zoology and biology. Behind the large pond, there is a smaller pond through which the Kaltentalbach stream flows into the large pond. The Kaltentalbach originates from a karst spring, the Kaltentalquelle.
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Beautiful market square with market fountain ⛲️ and half-timbered houses - Münsingen - Reutlingen district
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A beautiful little town on the Swabian Alb.
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Here you can enjoy a lovely cycle ride along the Erms River, undisturbed by traffic on the main road.
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Beautiful city, enjoyed taking a little break here.
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Shepherd's Run Sculpture for the Anniversary: Bad Urach will receive a work of art by sculptor Peter Lenk for the 300th anniversary of the Shepherd's Run next year. The local council voted in favor of this with a large majority. After the artist personally presented his design at the end of last year, the Bad Urach council has now decided to officially commission him. Peter Lenk, arguably one of the most important living sculptors in Germany, depicts the original and true core of the Shepherd's Festival in his sculpture "The Shepherd's Run." He dispenses with all site-specific and purely decorative elements. Of course, he also includes a healthy dose of humor, in typical Lenk style. According to current designs, the sculpture is intended to be the focal point of Bad Urach's market square. It will feature several almost life-sized figures depicting the shepherds' race and the occasional scuffle for victory. At the center of the sculpture will be a several-meter-high carillon, which will either play preset melodies or be operated manually using a keyboard. During the Shepherd Run, the popular festival melodies will also be heard there. During the discussion prior to the resolution, the city councilors particularly emphasized the added value for the city. The sculpture by the nationally renowned artist could become an invigorating attraction for visitors from far beyond the Erms Valley. Furthermore, the 300th anniversary of the Shepherd Run is a fitting occasion to create something lasting in the cityscape, thus visually placing the old traditional festival at the center of the city. The committee thus aims to create works of art in public spaces, representing our generation, for those living today and their descendants, that are of a quality no less than those left behind by previous generations in Urach. To give city councilors and residents a first impression of the sculpture and the carillon, the city administration commissioned the Hülben-based company CMC Engineers GmbH to create a visualization, which can be seen here: Shepherd's Run Sculpture by Peter Lenk Visualization 2022. Source: https://www.badurach-schaeferlauf.de/aktuelles/neuigkeiten-aktuelles/bad-uracher-schaeferlauf-skulptur
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Shepherd's Run Monument by Peter Lenk The Shepherd's Run Monument by Peter Lenk was erected on the Urach market square to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the Shepherd's Run. The monument depicts the shepherd's festival in its original form, without superfluous, site-specific decorations. The sculpture consists of several almost life-size figures depicting the shepherds' race and the occasional scuffle for victory. The Shepherd's Race has a long tradition: The Shepherd's Guild met for its general assembly in the old Free German Imperial City of Markgöningen as early as 1443. After the official matters concerning sheep farming were dealt with by the Shepherd's Court, the Shepherd's Race followed. Unmarried shepherds and shepherd's daughters raced against each other across a stubble field. The Shepherd's Run in Bad Urach Since 1723, Bad Urach has celebrated the Urach Shepherd's Race every two years, which dates back to an order by Duke Eberhard Ludwig. He wanted to spare the shepherds on the Alb the long journey to the Markgröningen Shepherd's Day at that time. The ducal decree led to the establishment of a "Neben- und Viertellade" (Neighborhood and Quarter Lodge) for the Shepherds' Guild, with permission to hold a Shepherd's Run. Even then, the people of Urach maintained the now traditional festivities: a large folk festival with thousands of guests takes place around the competition between young shepherds' sons and daughters with prize herding and the legendary Shepherd's Run for the Shepherd's Crown. The monument is complemented by a carillon tower, from which melodies ring out four times a day. The repertoire changes monthly, with songs tailored to the time of day and year. The bell melodies can be heard at the following times: 9:01 a.m. 10:01 a.m. 12:05 p.m. 3:05 p.m. 7:01 p.m. Source: https://www.badurach-tourismus.de/attraktion/schaeferlauf-denkmal-von-peter-lenk-6d74ec1d92
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many traffic-free touring cycling routes are available around Dettingen an der Erms?
There are over 30 dedicated traffic-free touring cycling routes around Dettingen an der Erms, offering a variety of distances and difficulty levels to explore the region's natural beauty.
Are there any easy, traffic-free touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, there are several easy, traffic-free routes perfect for beginners or families. One excellent option is the Alb Thermal Baths, Bad Urach – Market Fountain, Bad Urach loop from Dettingen Erms Freibad, which is relatively flat and takes you through pleasant scenery. The Erms Valley itself offers gentle terrain, ideal for relaxed cycling.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see along these routes?
The routes traverse the diverse landscapes of the Swabian Jura and the Erms Valley. You'll encounter rolling hills, lush valleys, dense forests, and charming cherry orchards, especially along the 'Kirschenweg' (Cherryway). The region is part of a UNESCO biosphere reserve, so expect rich biodiversity.
Are there any waterfalls accessible by traffic-free touring bike routes?
Yes, the impressive Urach Waterfall, one of Germany's highest outside the Alps, is a significant natural highlight just 5.2 km from Dettingen. While some routes might pass nearby, you may need to combine cycling with a short walk to reach the falls directly. Another beautiful cascade is the Güterstein waterfall.
Can I find circular traffic-free touring cycling routes in the area?
Many of the touring cycling routes around Dettingen an der Erms are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Bad Urach Old Town – Trailfinger Gorge Ascent loop from Dettingen Erms Lehen offers a challenging circular experience through varied terrain.
What historical landmarks or attractions can I visit along the routes?
You can incorporate visits to historical sites such as the majestic Hohenneuffen Castle and the expansive Hohenurach Castle Ruins, both offering historical interest and scenic viewpoints. The town itself is also located on the Swabian Poet Road, connecting various interesting sights.
What is the best time of year for traffic-free touring cycling in Dettingen an der Erms?
The spring and summer months (April to September) are ideal for touring cycling in Dettingen an der Erms. Spring brings blooming cherry orchards, while summer offers warm weather for exploring. Autumn also provides beautiful foliage. During winter, some higher elevation paths might be less accessible due to snow or ice.
Are there any routes that offer panoramic views?
Yes, many routes in the Swabian Alb region provide stunning panoramic views. A hike up to Sonnenfelsen, for instance, offers a beautiful vista over Dettingen an der Erms and the surrounding Swabian Alb. Routes that ascend to higher points like the Hohenurach Castle Ruins also reward cyclists with extensive 360-degree views.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about the traffic-free routes here?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, scenic paths, the diverse landscapes ranging from gentle valleys to challenging ascents, and the opportunity to discover natural highlights like the Urach Waterfall and historical castles.
Where can I park my car when starting a traffic-free touring cycling route?
Many routes start from or pass through Dettingen an der Erms itself, where public parking is generally available. Specific starting points like 'Dettingen Erms Lehen' or 'Dettingen Erms Freibad' often have designated parking areas nearby, making it convenient to access the routes.
Are there any lakes or water bodies along the traffic-free touring cycling routes?
While the Erms River flows through the valley, several small lakes and biotopes are within cycling distance. You might encounter highlights such as Aileswasensee, Lake Beutwang, or the unique Molach Biotope (Former Volcanic Crater), offering pleasant spots for a break.
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