The best traffic-free bike rides around Granetalsperre

There are over 20 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Granetalsperre, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix of easy, moderate, and challenging options to explore the scenic Harz region.

The routes around Granetalsperre offer a varied experience. While the popular circular path directly around the reservoir is largely asphalted and well-maintained, many routes extend onto good, wide forest paths, providing a pleasant mix of surfaces. Expect mostly paved roads suitable for road bikes, with some sections potentially on smooth, firm forest tracks.

Yes, the area is well-suited for family cycling. The circular route directly around the Grane Reservoir is approximately 14.5 km long, mostly flat, and asphalted, making it an excellent choice for families and beginners. Many of the easy-rated routes, such as the Goslar Old Town – Climb to Ohlei loop from Goslar, are also suitable for a relaxed family outing.

Absolutely! Cyclists can ride directly over the impressive dam wall of the Granetalsperre. This offers picturesque views of both the reservoir and the Astfeld valley behind it, providing a unique highlight to your ride.

Beyond the stunning reservoir itself, you can enjoy several points of interest. The Shelter with a view of the Granestausee lake (HWN 110) offers a great photo opportunity. You'll also find various viewpoints overlooking the Granetalsperre and the surrounding Harz National Park. For those interested in the dam's history, an information board at the Granetalsperre (Harz Geopark) provides insights into its construction and purpose.

The Granetalsperre region is beautiful year-round, but for road cycling, spring through autumn generally offers the most pleasant conditions. The well-maintained paths are usually clear, and the surrounding forests are vibrant. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures and potential snow or ice on some sections, especially on less-trafficked forest paths.

Yes, for those seeking a greater challenge, there are moderate and difficult routes available. For example, the Goslar Old Town – Descent towards Werlaburgdorf loop from Goslar is a moderate 50 km route with over 400 meters of ascent, offering a more demanding ride through varied landscapes.

Yes, many routes around Granetalsperre are accessible by public transport, particularly those connecting to the nearby city of Goslar. This allows for convenient travel to the starting points of various cycling tours, including options like the Goslar Old Town – Goslar Train Station loop from Goslar.

Parking facilities are available, notably at the dam wall of the Granetalsperre. These parking areas provide convenient access to the circular route around the reservoir and other connecting trails, making it easy to start your no-traffic road cycling adventure.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 220 reviews. Reviewers often praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the routes, the stunning views of the reservoir and surrounding Harz National Park, and the well-maintained surfaces that make for an enjoyable road cycling experience.

While the paths around Granetalsperre are generally open to the public, including hikers with dogs, it's important to keep dogs on a leash, especially within the Harz National Park and around the reservoir, which is a drinking water protection zone. Always ensure your dog is well-behaved and doesn't interfere with other cyclists or wildlife.

While the immediate vicinity of the Granetalsperre is primarily natural, you can find cafes and restaurants in nearby towns like Goslar. It's advisable to plan your route to pass through these areas if you intend to stop for refreshments or carry your own snacks and drinks, as the reservoir area itself is a protected zone with limited commercial facilities.