The best traffic-free bike rides around Winkel (Eifel)

There are 10 dedicated no traffic gravel bike trails around Winkel (Eifel) featured in this guide. These routes offer a mix of moderate and difficult challenges, perfect for exploring the region's unique volcanic landscape.

The Eifel region, particularly around Winkel, is known for its volcanic origins, which means you can expect a diverse and engaging terrain. Trails feature rolling hills, dense forests, and varied surfaces, including gravel paths, forest roads, and some challenging climbs. The landscape is ruggedly beautiful, offering a true gravel biking experience.

Yes, many of the gravel bike routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the challenging View of the Schalkenmehrener Maar – Weinfelder Maar viewpoint loop from Daun is a great option, covering over 42 km with significant elevation changes.

The volcanic landscape of the Eifel offers numerous breathtaking viewpoints. A notable one is the Dronke Tower on the Mäuseberg, which provides panoramic vistas over the maars. You can incorporate this into your ride with the Dronketurm Tower Viewpoint – Dronke Tower on the Mäuseberg loop from Berenbach route.

The region is famous for its maars, which are volcanic lakes. You'll find stunning views of these natural wonders, such as the Schalkenmehrener Maar and Weinfelder Maar (Totenmaar). The trails often wind through dense forests and along rivers, showcasing the Eifel's diverse natural beauty.

Most of the no traffic gravel bike trails around Winkel (Eifel) are rated as difficult. They feature significant elevation gains and varied terrain, making them suitable for experienced gravel bikers looking for a challenge. For instance, the View of the Schalkenmehrener Maar – View of the Schalkenmehren Maar loop from Auderath covers nearly 49 km with over 649 meters of ascent.

While many routes in this guide are rated difficult, the Eifel region generally offers a range of cycling paths. For family-friendly options, look for routes with less elevation gain and smoother surfaces. The Großes Schlitzohr Tunnel – View of Daun from Daun Viaduct loop from Daun, at 24 km with 452m of ascent, might be a more manageable option for families with some cycling experience, though it is still rated difficult.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning volcanic landscapes, the challenging climbs that reward with incredible views, and the quiet, traffic-free nature of the trails, which allows for an immersive outdoor experience.

While the routes themselves focus on no-traffic areas, the towns and villages near the trails, such as Daun or Berenbach, offer various cafes and restaurants where you can refuel. It's always a good idea to plan your stops in advance, especially on longer routes, as amenities might be sparse directly on the trails.

The Eifel region is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking. The weather is milder, and the natural scenery is particularly vibrant with spring blossoms or autumn colors. Summer can also be great, but be prepared for warmer temperatures, especially on challenging climbs. Winter riding is possible but requires appropriate gear for potentially colder and wetter conditions.

Beyond the natural maars and viewpoints, you can discover unique geological features shaped by the region's volcanic past. The XXL Bench, Vulkaneifel – Panorama Bench Sarmerzbach loop from Berenbach route, for example, takes you past an impressive panorama bench, offering a unique spot to rest and enjoy the views of the Vulkaneifel.