4.4
(721)
3,255
riders
117
rides
Touring cycling around Apolda offers a diverse landscape characterized by river valleys, rolling hills, and agricultural plains. The region features a network of well-developed cycling routes, many of which are paved. These routes traverse natural settings and connect historic towns and cultural sites. The terrain generally presents varied elevation changes, from gentle gradients along rivers to more challenging climbs on plateaus.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
4.7
(88)
356
riders
29.5km
01:44
120m
120m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(134)
687
riders
37.8km
02:18
270m
270m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.7
(27)
94
riders
46.2km
02:57
410m
410m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(47)
154
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(80)
338
riders
65.9km
03:55
300m
300m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Nice place with grandma and a sundial to take a selfie and make a stop.
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Nice place with grandma and sundial to take a selfie and make a stop.
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Always nice when you see the Cathedral, even from afar
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In the late evening and with good light, a great photo opportunity from the Saale floodplain, WOW!
1
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We're currently restoring it. It's a listed building. It will surely become a beautiful site.
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great view of the cliffs on the Saale
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The Duchess Anna Amalia Library is an important research library on German literature around 1800 and preserves around a million works from the 9th to the 21st century. The historic library building with the famous Rococo Hall, which was restored after the fire in 2004, is open again and can be visited by up to 290 people every day except Mondays. You can find further information and opening times here: https://www.klassik-stiftung.de/ihr-besuch/allgemeine-informationen/tickets/.
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Beautiful view of the two historic buildings. Be careful, here you can turn off to the Mühlencafe.
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Apolda offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with nearly 120 routes recorded on komoot. These routes cater to various preferences, including 55 easy, 46 moderate, and 16 difficult options.
The region around Apolda features diverse terrain, from mostly flat sections along river valleys like the Ilm and Saale, to rolling hills and agricultural plains. Many routes are well-developed and paved, while some longer or more challenging rides may include unpaved segments. Expect varied elevation changes, with gentle gradients along rivers and more challenging climbs on plateaus.
Yes, Apolda is a great starting point for family-friendly cycling. The Ilmtal Cycle Path, for example, offers many segments suitable for families, with mostly paved surfaces and gentle gradients. For a shorter, easy ride, consider the Kurpark Bad Sulza – Louise Graduation Tower, Bad Sulza loop from Apolda, which is 29.5 km long and features mostly flat terrain.
Cycling routes around Apolda are rich with sights. You can explore historic sites like the traditional Bockwindmühle Krippendorf or the Museum 1806 along the Napoleon Cycle Path. Natural features include the picturesque Ilm and Saale river valleys, vineyards in the Saale-Unstrut region, and tranquil forests like the Uhlstädt-Kirchhaseler Forst. For panoramic views, look for spots like the Napoleon Stone on the Windknollen or the View of Jena from the Jenzig. You can also discover historic castles such as the Dornburg Palaces.
Absolutely. Apolda is connected to several significant long-distance routes. The Ilmtal Cycle Path, spanning 123 km, follows the Ilm River through historic towns and natural scenery. The Thuringian City Chain Tour, a 225 km route, connects several historic cities and often merges with local paths. The Saale Cycle Route also passes through the Weimarer Land, offering a journey along the Saale river with vineyards and historic towns.
The best seasons for touring cycling in Apolda and the surrounding region are generally from spring to autumn. During these months, the weather is mild, and the landscapes are vibrant, offering ideal conditions for exploring the routes.
Yes, many routes around Apolda are designed as loops, making them convenient for day trips. The Napoleon Cycle Path is a historically significant circular tour starting in Apolda. For a moderate option, consider the Weimar Market Square – Niederroßla Cycle Path Bridge loop from Apolda, covering 46.1 km.
The touring cycling routes in Apolda are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from over 400 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained paths, the diverse scenery, and the blend of natural beauty with cultural and historical points of interest.
Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are more difficult routes available. The Saale-Unstrut vineyards – View of the Saale River loop from Apolda is a difficult 102.6 km trail that leads through vineyards and river valleys, offering a substantial ride with significant elevation changes.
Apolda is well-connected, and many cycling routes are designed to be accessible, often passing through towns with public transport links. While specific public transport details for each route vary, the region's network of paths, including parts of the Ilmtal Cycle Path and Thuringian City Chain Tour, often connect to train stations in larger towns like Weimar and Jena, making it possible to combine cycling with public transport.
Yes, the Feininger Cycling Route is a 27.8 km path that allows you to follow in the footsteps of German-American artist Lyonel Feininger, discovering village churches he painted and other art-related information panels. Additionally, the Napoleon Cycle Path offers a historical journey with memorial stones and information panels commemorating the events of 1806.


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