A versatile route that delights with cozy villages, great architecture, deep-rooted history, and old legends, ending with wellness & relaxation at the ThermeNatur in Bad Rodach.
The starting point of this 50-kilometer circular route is the ThermeNatur in Bad Rodach. First, there is a small climb followed by a fast descent through Bad Colberg continuing to Ummerstadt. Ahead of us lies pure Middle Ages. With Ummerstadt, we reach a place that seems hardly to have changed in 400 years. In the timber-framed village of Gemünda, a detour to Seßlach branches off. This nearly unchanged town may be smaller than Rothenburg ob der Tauber but is at least as romantic – and above all not overrun by mass tourism. Through lush green river meadows, pastures, and fields, we continue to the next medieval picture-book town, Heldburg, crowned with a fortress housing the German Castle Museum. After an up-and-down ride over the crest of an extinct volcano, we roll back into Bad Rodach. There, we can give our bodies a well-deserved thermal bath visit at ThermeNatur – with a massage for our somewhat tired legs.
Author’s recommendation
Bad Rodach
Bad Rodach is one of the tourist centers of the Rodach Valley. Around the historic marketplace, shops, (street) cafés, and restaurants invite you to linger. The hunting lodge is a must-see – it also houses the tourist information. You should also visit the local mountain "Georgenberg" with its rustic beer garden. ThermeNatur draws its healing water from 652 m depth. Thanks to the magnificent sauna area "Erdfeuer" and panoramic views of the beautiful surroundings, it is rightfully one of the most popular leisure destinations in the region. And you have to try the cyclist massages!
Gauerstadt
Charming village with the oldest inn in the region, first mentioned in 1523. The country inn is even recommended by the ADFC as particularly bike-friendly.
Ummerstadt
Its former border location put Germany's second smallest town into a dormant state for decades. But even centuries before, time seemingly passed by this fairy-tale timber-framed town without leaving a trace. The historic townscape is completely intact and enchantingly romantic. Conclusion: Ummerstadt must not be missing from holiday photos. Also, the town cellar at the marketplace invites you to rest Wednesday through Sunday!
Gemünda
A dreamy, ancient village with lots of timber framing and a village ghost. At night, a monk wanders through the nearby forest seeking revenge on his murderers – at least, so the legend says...
Seßlach
If you consider Rothenburg ob der Tauber the crown of the Middle Ages, you haven't seen Seßlach. The enchanted town, hidden behind ancient walls, may be somewhat smaller and lesser known, but it has remained authentic. A truly cinematic setting with unique flair and charming pubs. The city gates are always open to cyclists!
Heldburg
The Veste Heldburg is still a secret tip – but that will change at the latest with its gradual expansion into the German Castle Museum. From the 13th to the 19th century, dukes built this imposing hilltop residence, the "Franconian Lighthouse." On a clear day, you can see the imposing sister fortress "Franconian Crown" in Coburg from the tower. In the romantic little town at its feet, there are plenty of places to stop for refreshments.
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.
Track types
Tips and suggestions
Roadbook
Bad Rodach-ThermeNatur - Bad Colberg - Ummerstadt - Gemünda in Upper Franconia - Seßlach - Heldburg - Bad Rodach-ThermeNatur
Gedächtniskapelle
Kurhaus
Heldburg Fortress
Schlosspark Seidingstadt
ThermeNatur
Parking
ThermeNatur, Stork chimney, Train stationCoordinates
Localization
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.

User Questions