The best traffic-free bike rides around Erlen

The Erlen area, nestled in Thurgau, offers a wide selection of routes for gravel biking away from traffic. You'll find over 100 dedicated trails, with 4 easy, 64 moderate, and 34 difficult options to explore.

The Thurgau region around Erlen is a cyclist's paradise, offering diverse terrain. You can expect gentle rolling hills, picturesque river valleys, extensive forests, and scenic paths through orchards. The View of the River Thur – Ganggelisteg Suspension Bridge loop from Sulgen, for example, offers a mix of riverside paths and open views, characteristic of the region's varied landscape.

Spring and autumn are particularly beautiful for gravel biking in Erlen. In spring, the extensive orchards transform into a 'sea of pink' with blooming apple trees, offering a stunning backdrop. Autumn provides pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage. While summer is also great, be mindful of warmer temperatures. Winter rides are possible, but some paths might be muddy or icy.

Yes, there are several easy, traffic-free gravel bike routes perfect for beginners. A great option is the View of the River Thur – Ganggelisteg Suspension Bridge loop from Sulgen, which is an easy 22.5 km ride with minimal elevation gain, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without significant challenge.

Absolutely. For those seeking a more demanding ride, the region offers several difficult routes. The Leutswil Bridge (Sitter River) – Wannenbrücke — over the Sitter loop from Kradolf is a challenging 40 km route with significant elevation changes, providing a rewarding experience for advanced gravel bikers.

Many of the traffic-free gravel bike trails in the Erlen region are suitable for families, especially the easier routes that traverse flat or gently rolling terrain. These paths often lead through picturesque farmlands and orchards, offering a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages. Consider routes with lower elevation gain and shorter distances for younger riders.

Generally, dogs are welcome on most outdoor trails in Switzerland, including gravel bike routes, provided they are kept on a leash and you clean up after them. Always be respectful of wildlife, other trail users, and private property. It's advisable to check local signage for any specific restrictions in nature reserves or protected areas.

The trails around Erlen offer a blend of natural beauty and historical sites. You might encounter the serene Bommer Weiher Water Lilies, enjoy panoramic views from Nollen, or pass by historical structures like Hagenwil Moated Castle. The region's rivers, orchards, and the nearby Lake Constance also provide stunning backdrops.

Parking is generally available in and around the starting points of many trails. For example, the Hudelmoos Nature Reserve Parking Area offers convenient access to trails in that vicinity. Many villages like Sulgen or Kradolf, which serve as starting points for routes like the Bussnang Viaduct – Glider Airfield loop from Kradolf, also have public parking facilities.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the routes, the diverse and picturesque landscapes ranging from rolling hills to river valleys, and the well-maintained paths that offer pure riding enjoyment away from asphalt. The scenic views and charming villages are frequently highlighted as well.

Yes, many of the gravel bike routes around Erlen are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. An example is the Barbecue area at Pfaffenweiher – Forest singletrack trail S1 loop from Sulgen, which offers a varied circular experience through forests and past natural features.

No, generally, no specific permits are required for gravel biking on public trails and roads in Thurgau, Switzerland. You are free to explore the extensive network of cycling paths and unpaved roads. However, always respect private property, follow local signage, and adhere to any rules posted in nature reserves or protected areas.