4.8
(53)
300
riders
26
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Metzels offer access to the diverse landscapes of the Thuringian Forest and the Rhön Mountains. This region is characterized by dense forests, river valleys, and varied elevations, providing a range of cycling experiences. Cyclists can explore routes along the Werra River and through the low mountain ranges, encountering both gentle paths and more challenging ascents. The terrain includes quiet roads and well-maintained paths, suitable for different types of touring bikes.
Last updated: October 1, 2026
4.9
(13)
55
riders
23.8km
01:58
370m
370m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(5)
25
riders
25.5km
02:13
480m
480m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

4.3
(11)
17
riders
12.2km
01:10
180m
180m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.1
(10)
52
riders
24.6km
01:32
230m
230m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
16
riders
14.9km
01:19
300m
300m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
A nice place to rest - however, on a public holiday you have to be patient ...
0
0
The Große Inselsberg near Bad Tabarz, at 916.5 m, is the highest, widely visible elevation in the western Thuringian Forest. It has marked historical borders for over 1,000 years, currently between the districts of Gotha and Schmalkalden-Meiningen. Source: https://www.tourismus-thueringer-wald.de/aktiv/grosser-inselsberg-mit-aussichts-und-erlebnisturm
1
0
South and above the university town of Schmalkalden, on the southwestern edge of the Thuringian Forest, lies the Henneberger Haus. With this name, you might imagine a hiking hut or an inn. Far from it, it is a four-star hotel with all the wellness and conference amenities. The surroundings and the views are, of course, top-notch, so everyone must and can relax. Quelle: https://www.quaeldich.de/paesse/henneberger-haus/
1
0
Very nice hotel with guesthouse and inviting beer garden.
0
0
Great location for a day trip or a break with good food.
2
0
Beautiful shelter with a great view of the Inselsberg mountain.
2
0
Good inn and good food
3
0
There are over 25 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Metzels. These routes offer a diverse range of experiences, from leisurely rides through river valleys to more challenging ascents in the surrounding low mountain ranges.
The routes around Metzels cater to various skill levels. You'll find 1 easy route, 17 moderate routes, and 10 difficult routes. This variety ensures that both casual cyclists and experienced touring enthusiasts can find a suitable challenge.
Yes, many of the no-traffic touring routes around Metzels are circular, allowing you to start and end your journey in the same location. An example is the Oberwallbachsmühle – Werratal Cycle Path loop from Metzels, which offers a scenic and challenging ride.
The no-traffic routes around Metzels traverse diverse landscapes, including dense forests of the Thuringian Forest, expansive plateaus, and scenic river valleys with sweeping meadows in the Rhön Mountains. You'll encounter quiet roads, excellent tarmac, and picturesque paths along rivers like the Werra.
While many routes offer moderate challenges, some sections of the Werratal Cycle Path, accessible from Metzels, are known for being relatively flat and well-paved, making them suitable for families. For a moderate option, consider the Wallbach Valley – Oberwallbachsmühle loop from Metzels, which is shorter and less strenuous.
The region around Metzels is rich in history. You can encounter various historical sites and castles. For instance, the Maienluft Castle Ruins are a notable highlight. Other nearby attractions include Kirchenburg Walldorf and Wilhelmsburg Castle, Schmalkalden, offering glimpses into the area's past.
Absolutely. The routes often lead to stunning vistas. The View of Kühndorf – Werra Floodplain loop from Metzels offers picturesque views of the Werra floodplains. Additionally, the Sternplatz and the Adolfstein Memorial is a significant viewpoint in the broader region.
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience around Metzels, with an average score of 4.78 stars from over 100 ratings. Cyclists often praise the quiet, traffic-free paths, the varied terrain, and the beautiful natural scenery of the Thuringian Forest and Rhön Mountains.
Metzels is integrated into the broader regional network. While direct public transport access to every trailhead might vary, the region's connectivity suggests that major towns nearby offer public transport options that can get you close to starting points for many routes.
Yes, Metzels provides excellent access to longer-distance routes. The region connects to established networks like the Rhön Cycleway, a 180 km route traversing wide valleys and mountain pastures, and the Rennsteig, a long gravel path along the ridge of the Thuringian Forest, both offering extensive no-traffic sections for touring.
Beyond the general landscapes, you can discover specific natural monuments. The Dolmar Summit Cross offers panoramic views, and the Großes Armloch Karst Spring is a unique natural phenomenon. The routes often pass through pristine beech forests and along gushing rivers.
Yes, several routes offer views of or pass near historical structures. The Maienluft Castle Ruins – Werratal Cycle Path loop from Metzels is a great example, taking you past the ruins. Other nearby castles and ruins include Hallenburg Castle Ruins and Habichtsburg Ruins.


Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.