4.6
(1069)
5,893
riders
306
rides
Touring cycling in Farnsberg - Totnansberg offers diverse routes within Germany's Rhön Biosphere Reserve, characterized by the "Black Mountains" nature reserve. The region features a low mountain range with varied terrain, including densely forested peaks and the highest point in the Black Mountains, Totnansberg, at 839.4 meters. Cyclists can expect a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, with routes traversing natural parks and offering scenic long-distance views. A unique natural feature is the "Tintenfass" basalt lake, located in a former…
Last updated: October 18, 2026
4.9
(8)
87
riders
42.9km
04:00
1,000m
1,000m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
37
riders
35.7km
03:28
710m
710m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.

5.0
(2)
31
riders
16.3km
01:43
440m
440m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(6)
33
riders
Hard bike ride. Great for any fitness level. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
4.5
(2)
20
riders
52.7km
03:39
840m
830m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The Kreuzberg is considered the "Holy Mountain of the Franconians". The highest elevation in the Bavarian Rhön, at 928 meters, is known not only as a pilgrimage site but also for the world-famous Kreuzbergbier, which is produced in the monastery brewery located on the mountain and enjoyed in the cozy monastery tavern with all sorts of regional delicacies.
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The Kreuzberg in the Rhön has always attracted people as a place of power. In pre-Christian times, there was a sacred ash tree there, which is remembered by the old name "Aschberg". Since the Christianization of the Franks by St. Kilian and his companions in the year 686, the Kreuzberg has been considered the Holy Mountain of the Franks. The monastery, located just below the summit, was founded in 1644 by Franciscan monks. The pilgrimages are popular with the population, both from the surrounding area and traditionally from the Lower Franconian district town of Würzburg, which makes the long journey on foot to the pilgrimage church every year. Quelle: https://www.biosphaerenreservat-rhoen.de/mensch/tourismus-gastronomie-und-erholung/schaetze-der-rhoen/der-kreuzberg
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Directly below the Kreuzberg is a paid hiking parking lot. From there it is only about 400 meters to the Kreuzberg monastery. Via a steep staircase, you reach the Kreuzberg (928 m above sea level). On the way, you pass three oversized crosses that represent striking waypoints. A little further up, you finally reach the even larger summit cross of the mountain. The location is part of the Bischofsheimer Gipfel-Pass with stamp number 3 (directly next to the cross pedestal).
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Is somewhat hidden in the basement
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Superbly developed route!
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beautifully designed village square of Oberbach with fountain and some seating
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I really hope the hut will be rebuilt 😫 https://osthessen-news.de/n11773753/kissinger-huette-steht-in-flammen-buergermeisterin-reubelt-mir-blutet-das-herz.html
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Interesting
4
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Farnsberg - Totnansberg offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 290 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 27 easy, 123 moderate, and 144 difficult trails, ensuring there's a suitable ride for every cyclist.
The region, part of the "Black Mountains" nature reserve, features diverse terrain. You'll find densely forested peaks, predominantly spruce, and unique geological features like the "Tintenfass" basalt lake. Routes range from easy, well-paved segments of the Rhönexpress Rail Cycle Path to more challenging trails with unpaved sections and significant elevation changes, especially in the higher areas like Totnansberg.
Yes, there are several family-friendly options, particularly those utilizing the Rhönexpress Rail Cycle Path. These routes often feature gentler gradients and smoother surfaces. An example of an easy route is the End of Rhönexpress Rail Trail – Large beaver dam loop from Oberbach, which is 7.2 miles (11.7 km) long and leads through varied landscapes.
The region is rich in natural and cultural landmarks. You can cycle past the picturesque Basaltsee "Tintenfass" or visit the Würzburger Karl-Straub-Haus, a welcoming hut that serves as an ideal stopover. There are also various viewpoints offering stunning vistas, such as the View of the Rhön from the Würzburger Haus and the Viewpoint with bench overlooking the Kuppenrhön.
Convenient parking is available at several points, including near the Würzburger Karl-Straub-Haus. The Würzburger Haus Trailhead Parking is a good option, providing easy access to various routes in the area.
The Rhön Biosphere Reserve, including Farnsberg - Totnansberg, offers cycling opportunities year-round. However, for the most pleasant touring cycling experience, spring through autumn generally provides the best weather conditions. During these seasons, you can fully enjoy the forested peaks and scenic views without the challenges of winter conditions.
Yes, for experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, there are numerous difficult routes. An example is the Playground at Kissinger Hütte – Kissinger Hut loop from Waldberg, a 9.5-mile (15.2 km) trail with a significant ascent. Another demanding option is the View of Wasserkuppe – Wasserkuppe Summit loop from Oberbach, which covers over 52 km with substantial elevation changes.
The touring cycling routes in Farnsberg - Totnansberg are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 800 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from the gentle rail trails to the challenging climbs, and the stunning natural beauty of the forested peaks and unique geological features like the "Tintenfass" basalt lake.
Yes, there are options for refreshments and accommodation. The Würzburger Karl-Straub-Haus is a welcoming hut that provides food and drinks, making it an ideal stopover during your tour. Additionally, towns like Geroda, Riedenberg, and Oberbach, which serve as starting points for some routes, offer various amenities including cafes, pubs, and accommodation.
Many of the touring cycling routes in Farnsberg - Totnansberg are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, the Kreuzberg Monastery – View from the summit of Kreuzberg loop from Feuerberg (Rhön) is a popular moderate circular path offering scenic views and passing by the historic Kreuzberg Monastery.
The Rhönexpress Rail Cycle Path is a notable option in the region, utilizing segments of a former railway line. It is generally well-suited for touring bikes, offering routes that are often easy and well-paved. This path provides a gentler riding experience compared to some of the more challenging mountain trails, making it ideal for a relaxed tour.
Yes, some routes provide impressive views of the Wasserkuppe, the highest mountain in the Rhön. The View of Wasserkuppe – Wasserkuppe Summit loop from Oberbach is a difficult route that offers panoramic vistas, including the Wasserkuppe summit, rewarding cyclists with stunning scenery.


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