4.6
(201)
847
riders
44
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Touring cycling routes around Dotternhausen are situated within the Swabian Jura, a low mountain range in Germany, characterized by diverse landscapes. The region features rolling hills, forests, and the distinctive Albtrauf limestone ridge, providing varied terrain for cyclists. Primary watercourses like the Schlichem and Katzenbach rivers contribute to the natural beauty, with the Schlichem forming the southern border of the municipality. The area offers both paved and unpaved segments, catering to different cycling preferences.
Last updated: June 21, 2026
4.8
(33)
186
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(18)
63
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(10)
48
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(18)
63
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
37
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The Schlichemtalsperre (also known as Schömberger Stausee, mostly just called Stausee locally) east of Schömberg in Baden-Württemberg dams the Schlichem, a tributary of the Neckar coming from the Swabian Jura. The 90.6 ha Schömberger Stausee mit Palmbühl nature reserve surrounds the Schlichemtalsperre. The approximately 1.35 km long and initially narrow reservoir, which widens to about 175 m towards the end and has an area of 10.4 ha at 643.8 m above sea level (NHN), begins at the hamlet of Untere Säge and extends to the old town center of Schömberg. It has a catchment area of about 33.5 km², to which the Schlichem, already over 11 km long at its mouth, contributes almost 90%. The watercourses Hölzlegraben from the forest to the right of the lake and Scheubühlgraben and Räßentälebach from the left, which are up to 1.2 km long, flow into it from the sides. From the Vorsee forebay near the Untere Säge, a fish ladder leads to the reservoir. There is also the only bridge over the lake that can be walked and driven on. The Schlichem Viaduct can only be used by the railway. The Schlichemtalsperre was built between 1940 and 1944. The Portlandzementwerk Rudolf Rohrbach KG (today Holcim (Süddeutschland) GmbH) in neighboring Dotternhausen, which was the builder of the dam, initially used it for cooling water and electricity generation. An outdoor swimming pool built in 1935 was flooded. After the Second World War, the facility was taken over by the state of Württemberg-Hohenzollern in 1948. The reservoir was renovated from 1975 to 1983. The dam structure is an earth dam, and the hydropower plant within it has a capacity of 60 kW. There is a forebay called Vorsee, which was built from 1975 to 1977. Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schlichemtalsperre
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The Schlichemtalsperre (also Schömberger Stausee, usually just called Stausee locally) east of Schömberg in Baden-Württemberg dams the Schlichem, a tributary of the Neckar coming from the Swabian Jura. The 90.6-hectare Schömberger Stausee mit Palmbühl landscape protection area surrounds the Schlichemtalsperre. The approximately 1.35 km long and initially narrow reservoir, which widens to about 175 m towards the end, with an area of 10.4 hectares at 643.8 m above sea level, begins at the hamlet of Untere Säge and extends to the old town center of Schömberg. It has a catchment area of approximately 33.5 km², to which the Schlichem, which is already over 11 km long at the inflow, contributes almost 90%. The Hölzlegraben from the forest to the right of the lake and the Scheubühlgraben and Räßentälebach from the left flow into it. From the Vorsee forebay near the Untere Säge, a fish ladder leads to the reservoir. There is also the only bridge over the lake that can be walked and driven on. The Schlichem Viaduct can only be used by the railway. The Schlichemtalsperre was built between 1940 and 1944. The Portlandzementwerk Rudolf Rohrbach KG (today Holcim (Süddeutschland) GmbH) based in neighboring Dotternhausen, which was the client for the dam, initially used it for cooling water and electricity generation. An outdoor swimming pool built in 1935 was flooded. After the Second World War, the facility was taken over by the state of Württemberg-Hohenzollern in 1948. The reservoir was renovated from 1975 to 1983. The dam is an earth dam, and the hydropower plant within it has a capacity of 60 kW. There is a forebay, the Vorsee, which was built from 1975 to 1977. Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schlichemtalsperre
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A suspension bridge is being built near the EKS Tower in Rottweil's old town, and it is scheduled to be inaugurated next year!
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Schömberger Reservoir
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The city center is worth a stop
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The most beautifully situated castle
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For me the most beautiful castle
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There are over 45 touring cycling routes around Dotternhausen, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars.
The terrain around Dotternhausen is characterized by rolling hills, mountains, and the distinctive Albtrauf limestone ridge. You'll find a mix of paved and unpaved segments, winding through picturesque towns, lush forests, and scenic hillsides. Routes vary in difficulty, with 5 easy, 24 moderate, and 16 difficult options, ensuring there's something for all fitness levels.
Yes, Dotternhausen offers several routes suitable for families. While specific 'family-friendly' tags aren't always present, routes with moderate difficulty and shorter distances are generally good choices. For example, the Schömberg Reservoir – View of the Schömberg Reservoir loop from Dotternhausen-Dormettingen is a moderate 14.6-mile (23.6 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 35 minutes, offering scenic hillsides without extreme challenges.
The region is rich in natural beauty and offers breathtaking views. You can enjoy panoramic vistas from locations like the Lemberg Tower, the highest mountain in the Swabian Alb, or the Lochenstein Summit Cross. Routes often pass by impressive geological formations such as the Schlichem Gorge, or offer views of the Swabian Jura, as seen on the Zollern Castle Balingen – View of the Swabian Jura loop from Dotternhausen-Dormettingen.
Many of the touring cycling routes around Dotternhausen are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Black Gate, Rottweil – Schömberg Reservoir loop from Dotternhausen-Dormettingen, a challenging 24.9-mile (40.0 km) route, or the moderate View of Kloster Kirchberg – Slate Experience Dormettingen loop from Dotternhausen-Dormettingen, which covers 40.6 km.
Beyond natural landscapes, Dotternhausen offers cultural insights. You can visit the Werkforum and Fossil Museum to explore excavated objects and even try carving fossils. The area also features quarry trails, like the 'Kalkweg,' which highlight the region's industrial history. Some routes, such as the Slate Experience Dormettingen – Zollern Castle Balingen loop from Dotternhausen-Dormettingen, connect to significant landmarks like Zollern Castle.
Yes, the region around Dotternhausen features several beautiful waterfalls. While cycling, you might find yourself near highlights such as the Zillhausen Waterfall, the Roschbach Waterfall, or the Eyach Waterfall at Balingen Castle. These natural attractions offer refreshing stops along your journey.
The Swabian Alb region, including Dotternhausen, is generally excellent for cycling from spring through autumn. Spring brings blooming landscapes, while summer offers warm weather. Autumn provides stunning foliage. On clear days, especially in spring and autumn, views from higher elevations like the Lemberg Tower can extend all the way to the Alps.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 160 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the stunning panoramic views from the Albtrauf, and the well-maintained network of routes that cater to different skill levels. The mix of natural beauty and cultural points of interest also contributes to a rich cycling experience.
Yes, for those seeking longer rides, Dotternhausen offers routes that can be combined or are part of broader networks. The Black Gate, Rottweil – Schömberg Reservoir loop from Dotternhausen-Dormettingen is a challenging 40 km (24.9 miles) route. The broader Swabian Alb region also features long-distance routes like the Alb-Crossing Cycle Trail, which connects various cultural and natural highlights.
Absolutely. While the region has challenging ascents, there are 5 routes specifically categorized as 'easy' and 24 'moderate' routes that are suitable for beginners or those preferring a more relaxed pace. These routes often feature less elevation gain and smoother paths, allowing for an enjoyable introduction to touring cycling in the area.
For experienced cyclists looking for a challenge, Dotternhausen offers 16 difficult routes with significant elevation changes typical of the Albtrauf landscape. A notable challenging route is the Black Gate, Rottweil – Schömberg Reservoir loop from Dotternhausen-Dormettingen, which covers 40 km (24.9 miles) and includes substantial climbs and descents.


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