4.9
(8)
61
riders
21
rides
Gravel biking in Tonnenberg, Käsbühl, Karkstein offers a diverse landscape characterized by rolling hills, varied terrain, and significant geological features. The region includes heathland mountains like Tonnenberg, Käsbühl, and Karkstein, featuring open heathlands and juniper. Terrain varies from forests, fields, and meadows to calcareous grasslands and rocky sections, influenced by the Nördlinger Ries impact event. This mix provides a suitable environment for gravel cycling.
Last updated: July 17, 2026
3
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
47.9km
03:00
540m
540m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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3
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
3
riders
44.0km
02:39
470m
470m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
36.5km
02:15
380m
380m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Magnificent view of the vast monastery complex
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The magnificent mass limestone rocks and the consistently gentle gradient make the dry valleys popular destinations.
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The Wasserschloss in Trochtelfingen hosts various events, and it's also worth a visit for a short stop in the beer garden with musical entertainment.
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The "Daniel" church tower of St. George's Church in Nördlingen is the town's most visible landmark and a masterpiece of late Gothic architecture. At 90 meters high, the tower rises above the town's rooftops and offers a spectacular panoramic view of the Nördlinger Ries region – on a clear day, up to 99 church towers can be seen. Construction began in 1454 and was completed in 1490 with a temporary roof. After a lightning strike in 1537, the tower received its characteristic Italian dome. Originally known as the "Wendelstein," it was renamed "Daniel" in the 19th century – an allusion to the biblical figure Daniel, who was elevated to the rank of prince. The Daniel tower is particularly vividly brought to life by a centuries-old tradition: Every evening between 10 p.m. and midnight, the watchman calls out "So G'sell, so!" from the tower room. – a greeting that dates back to a legend from 1440 in which a runaway sow helped uncover a treason and save the city from an attack. Those who climb the more than 350 steps to the viewing platform will be rewarded not only with an impressive panorama but also with a sense of the history and soul of this unique city.
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The Berger Gate in Nördlingen is one of the five remaining city gates and once secured the road toward Ulm. It was built between 1435 and 1436 by the master builder Hans Rews. The upper tower floors were later expanded between 1574 and 1575 by Wolfgang and Caspar Waldberger, giving the gate its present appearance. Particularly noteworthy is the coffered barrel vault of the gate passage – an architectural detail that gives the gate its distinctive character. A cannonball from the Thirty Years' War remains embedded in the masonry, commemorating the siege of Nördlingen in 1634.
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The view from up here over the countryside is somehow fantastic. Sitting on the bench and just gazing into the distance is almost like meditation.
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Quiet and very beautiful valley!
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There are over 40 gravel bike routes to explore in Tonnenberg, Käsbühl, and Karkstein, offering a wide variety of experiences for different skill levels.
The region offers a mix of moderate and difficult routes. You'll find 16 moderate trails and 24 difficult ones, ensuring options for both experienced riders and those looking for a challenge.
While the region primarily features moderate to difficult routes, some of the moderate trails can be suitable for beginners looking to challenge themselves. For example, the Ofnethöhlen near Holheim – Ipf Celtic Open-Air Museum loop from Itzlingen is a moderate 22.6-mile route that combines natural landscapes with historical points of interest.
The region is rich in history. You can encounter sites like Ipf Hill, an ancient Celtic open-air museum, and Kapfenburg Castle. The Ipf Hill near Bopfingen – Bopfingen Market Square loop from Unterschneidheim is a great option for exploring historical areas and open countryside.
Absolutely. The region boasts several natural highlights. You can visit the Karkstein, explore the Tonnenberg, Käsbühl, and Karkstein Nature Reserve, or discover the Käsbühl Nature Reserve. Many routes also feature natural springs and rolling hills offering scenic views.
Yes, many of the gravel bike routes in the region are designed as loops. For instance, the challenging Ofnethöhlen near Holheim – Stone Bridge Harburg loop from Bopfingen is a 61.3-mile loop with significant elevation gain. Another option is the View of Kapfenburg Castle – View of Kapfenburg Castle loop from Lauchheim, a moderate 23.9-mile ride.
The diverse landscape with open fields and wooded sections makes the region enjoyable across multiple seasons. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. While winter biking is possible, be prepared for potentially varied weather conditions and check local forecasts.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, the combination of natural landscapes with historical points of interest, and the well-maintained paths that make for an engaging ride.
Yes, the region is known for its natural springs. The Eger Spring – Lake Stockmühl loop from Lauchheim is a moderate 38.1-mile route that specifically highlights a natural spring and a lake, offering a refreshing element to your ride.
Many routes pass through or near towns and villages like Bopfingen and Unterschneidheim, where you can typically find cafes, bakeries, or restaurants for refreshments. Planning your route with komoot allows you to identify such points of interest beforehand.
The region experiences typical Central European weather. Summers are generally warm, while spring and autumn are milder. Winters can be cold with potential for snow or ice, especially in higher elevations. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out, as conditions can change rapidly.


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