4.6
(2094)
7,173
riders
617
rides
Touring cycling around Bornholt offers routes along Europe's largest artificial waterway, the Kiel Canal, and through tranquil rural landscapes. The region is characterized by vast fields, ancient oak forests, and meadows, providing a picturesque backdrop for cycling. Terrain is generally flat, with gentle undulations, making it suitable for various skill levels. Bornholt's location on the NOK-Route integrates it into a well-established cycling network.
Last updated: May 1, 2026
4.8
(58)
181
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(16)
40
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.5
(13)
64
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(170)
639
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(13)
30
riders
32.8km
01:57
150m
150m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Fabulous overview of the canal shipping and the surroundings.
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Countless bridges on the NOK resemble each other. Nevertheless, they all retain their charm. The path along the NOK could be much better.
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Bicycle repair station and e-bike charging station - available to everyone/free of charge
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Brunsbüttel Lock You should take part in the lock tour if you're already there. The tour lasts two hours. You can get a brief overview of the lock beforehand and view the model building. This is located next to the tourist information office.
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The lock tour was good. It lasted two hours.
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Hello, this is definitely the Hochdonn railway bridge. The Rendsburg High Bridge is located about 45 km further east in Rendsburg. This bridge was built between 1913 and 1920 to replace a swing bridge 12 km further west (Taterpfahl). Parts of this swing bridge were used to cross the Schlei River for the Lindaunis Bridge.
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Huge building
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Always beautiful on the NOK
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Bornholt offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 600 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including easy, moderate, and more challenging paths.
The region is generally flat with gentle undulations, making it ideal for easy rides. A great option is the Klein Westerland Beach – Klein Westerland Swimming Area loop from Dückerswisch, an easy 11.9 km path. Another popular choice is the Boat Harbor on the Kiel Canal – Klein Westerland Swimming Area loop from Schafstedt, which is 30.9 km and follows the Kiel Canal.
Yes, many routes around Bornholt are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Hohenhörn Canal Ferry – Hochdonn Railway Bridge loop from Schafstedt is a popular 20.8 km circular route that offers views of the Kiel Canal and its impressive bridges.
Cycling around Bornholt offers a diverse landscape. You'll primarily experience the unique environment of the Kiel Canal, Europe's largest artificial waterway, with opportunities to watch large ships. Beyond the canal, the region features a magnificent rural area with vast fields, ancient oak forests, and tranquil meadows. You might also spot traditional farmhouses, some with thatched roofs, and black and red cattle grazing.
The Kiel Canal itself is a major attraction, with its impressive high bridges like the Hohenhörn high bridge and the Grünental High Bridge. You can also experience the Kanalfähre Hochdonn, a free and continuous canal ferry. For natural beauty, consider visiting highlights like the Klein Westerland Swimming Area or the Herthateich lake. The area also features historical sites such as the Dellbrücker Chamber Megalithic Tomb.
Absolutely. The generally flat terrain and well-established cycling paths, particularly along the NOK-Route, make Bornholt very suitable for families. The tranquil rural setting and the unique experience of cycling alongside the Kiel Canal provide an engaging and safe environment for all ages.
While specific parking locations for each route are best checked on the individual tour pages, Bornholt is a small municipality with a focus on outdoor activities. You can often find parking in or near the starting points of routes, especially in villages like Bornholt or Schafstedt. The presence of a 'Fahrradherberge' (bicycle hostel) also indicates a cyclist-friendly infrastructure, which often includes parking facilities.
The touring cycling routes in Bornholt are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 2000 reviews. Over 7000 touring cyclists have explored the area using komoot, often praising the quiet woodlands, the unique experience of cycling along the Kiel Canal, and the well-maintained paths.
Yes, several routes provide excellent views of the engineering marvels that span the Kiel Canal. The Grünental High Bridge – View from north to Grünentaler Hochbrücke loop from Bornholt is a 32.7 km route specifically designed to showcase the impressive Grünental High Bridge.
Bornholt is a small municipality, so direct public transport access to every trailhead might be limited. However, its location on the NOK-Route, a major cycling network, suggests good connectivity within the region. For specific routes, it's advisable to check the individual tour details on komoot for public transport options to nearby towns or starting points.
The 'magnificent rural area' and the open landscapes along the Kiel Canal are particularly enjoyable during spring, summer, and early autumn. These seasons offer pleasant weather for cycling, allowing you to fully appreciate the vast fields, ancient oak forests, and the maritime traffic on the canal. Winter cycling is possible, but conditions might be colder and windier.
While many routes are easy, Bornholt also offers moderate and a few difficult options for more experienced touring cyclists. For a moderate challenge, consider the Lowest Point in Germany – Hohenhörn Canal Ferry loop from Dückerswisch, a 35.1 km route that includes varied terrain and points of interest.


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