The best cycling routes around Schönbach
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(313)
1,870
riders
183
rides
Touring cycling routes around Schönbach traverse a diverse landscape characterized by extensive forests, varying terrains, and notable slopes within the Waldviertel region of Lower Austria. The area features natural highlights such as the Ottenstein Reservoir, several tranquil ponds, and the Lohnbach Waterfall. Cyclists can expect a mix of asphalt, gravel, meadow, and forest paths, providing a scenic backdrop for rides. The region's topography offers routes with significant elevation gains, catering to those seeking a challenge.
Best touring cycling routes around…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
3.0
(1)
23
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(2)
16
riders
27.7km
02:13
490m
490m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(3)
10
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(1)
12
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
8
riders
16.6km
01:07
250m
250m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Other adventures around Schönbach
Tips from the Community
Arbesbach Castle is a top highlight that you should definitely plan a visit to. Even from a distance, you can recognize the so-called "Waldviertel's fang" (Stockzahn des Waldviertels). Once you arrive at the site, 126 steps lead up to the entrance where admission (currently €2.50) is payable in coins or by card. Then it continues inside upwards to the platform, which offers a fantastic view. There is also a circular path around the tower, which however requires some surefootedness and suitable shoes.
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The village was first mentioned in 1246 and was originally owned by the Kuenring line of Weitra-Rappottenstein. In 1282, the estate passed to the Lords of Falkenberg, and in 1291 to Ulrich von Kapelln. In the 14th century, Arbesbach is mentioned as a freehold property. From 1326 to 1348, it was owned by the Lords of Klingenberg, who in 1347 mortgaged "the castle and the house at Arbesbach" to Weikart and Katharina von Winkl. From 1348, Arbesbach was owned by the Lords of Dachsberg, and from 1423 by the Lords of Starhemberg. In 1480, the castle was destroyed by a Bohemian raiding party and was not rebuilt. In 1600, the estate passed to the Lords of Tschernembl, and in 1604 to Georg Fenzl von... Grueb and as early as 1605 to Georg Kaspar von Neuhaus. From 1614 owned by the Lords von Hackelberg, from 1675 to 1862 by the Countess Dietrichstein. Afterwards, it passed to the Herberstein, Geusau, and Baron Holtz families, and from 1877 onwards to the Altzinger family, who still own the estate today and reside in part of the castle complex. Text by G.R., K.Ki.
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A beautiful little wooden church in the middle of the forest, beautiful to look at, fits perfectly here.
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Altmelon road: asphalt, little traffic; flat at approximately 900 meters in elevation
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The Arbesbach Castle ruins, also known as the "Molar Tooth of the Waldviertel," are located in the market town of Arbesbach. It was built at the end of the 12th century, presumably around 1180, by Hadmar II von Kuenring and served as a border fortress to secure the Kuenring family's holdings in the Waldviertel region. The most striking remaining structure is the pentagonal keep, which sits atop a granite rock and was originally about 25 meters high. In 1480, the castle was destroyed by Bohemian troops and was not rebuilt. Instead, the Arbesbach Manor House was later built in 1593 as the new administrative center. On the ruins of the keep, the so-called Alexanderwarte, an 18-meter-high observation tower offering panoramic views across the Waldviertel, was built in 1884.
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The Arbesbach Bear Sanctuary is a rescue center run by the animal welfare organization FOUR PAWS for bears in need. Here, bears who have been kept in inadequate conditions find a new, animal-friendly home. Nestled in the pristine Waldviertel landscape, the Bear Sanctuary enables a completely new form of animal observation. Three brown bears currently live here on a total of 14,000 square meters. The bears are most active in the morning (feeding) and are no longer visible in winter. They rest in their caves.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Schönbach?
There are over 180 touring cycling routes around Schönbach, offering a wide variety of experiences for different skill levels. The komoot community has explored these routes over 1800 times.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Schönbach?
The optimal seasons for touring cycling in Schönbach are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the mild weather and ideal temperatures enhance the cycling experience through the region's diverse landscapes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes around Schönbach?
You can expect a varied mix of surfaces, including asphalt, gravel, meadow, and forest paths. The region is characterized by extensive forests and varying terrains, including notable slopes, providing a scenic backdrop for your rides.
Are there touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Schönbach?
Yes, while many routes offer significant challenges, there are 8 easy routes and 66 moderate routes that are suitable for those with less experience or families. These routes often feature mostly paved surfaces, making them more accessible.
Are there challenging routes for experienced touring cyclists in Schönbach?
Absolutely. Schönbach offers 112 difficult touring cycling routes designed for experienced riders. These routes often feature significant elevation gains and varied terrain, with some segments potentially requiring you to push your bike. An example is the Arbesbach Castle Ruins – Bear Forest Arbesbach loop from Katastralgemeinde Pretrobruck, which covers 20.7 miles (33.3 km) with over 620 meters of elevation gain.
What do other cyclists say about the touring cycling routes in Schönbach?
The touring cycling routes in Schönbach are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 280 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, the tranquility of the forest paths, and the well-integrated natural and historical attractions.
Are there any routes that pass by waterfalls?
Yes, the region features the beautiful Lohnbach Waterfall, where the Lohnbach tributary descends eight meters in several stages. While specific routes passing directly by it aren't listed, it's a notable natural attraction in the area that can be explored.
Can I find routes that include historical sites or castles?
Many routes in Schönbach incorporate historical sites. For instance, the Klaus Chapel – Arbesbach Castle Ruins loop from Katastralgemeinde Pretrobruck takes you past the historic Arbesbach Castle Ruins. You can also explore Burg Rappottenstein, an ancient castle with Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture, which is a significant landmark in the region.
Are there routes that feature lakes or reservoirs?
Yes, the region is known for its picturesque water bodies. The Dürnbergteich – Water trough at farmhouse loop from Schönbach features the serene Dürnbergteich pond, and the Rubner Pond in the Tannermoor – Rubner Pond loop from Katastralgemeinde Brunn takes you through the Tannermoor to the Rubner Pond. The Ottenstein Reservoir is also a prominent natural feature in the wider area, offering tranquil routes.
Are there circular touring cycling routes in Schönbach?
Most of the touring cycling routes around Schönbach are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Arbesbach Castle Ruins – Bear Forest Arbesbach loop and the Dog Swimming Pond – Bear Forest Arbesbach loop from Altmelon.
How much elevation gain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Schönbach?
Elevation gain varies significantly by route. For example, the Rubner Pond in the Tannermoor – Rubner Pond loop has an elevation gain of approximately 659 meters over 43.5 km, while the Klaus Chapel – Arbesbach Castle Ruins loop features about 757 meters of ascent over 49.2 km. The region's topography includes notable slopes, contributing to these varied elevation profiles.
Are there any routes that might be suitable for cycling with a dog?
While specific dog-friendly route details are not always explicit, the Dog Swimming Pond – Bear Forest Arbesbach loop from Altmelon suggests an area where dogs might be welcome or have specific facilities. It's always advisable to check local regulations and ensure your dog is fit for the distance and terrain.
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