Thuringian long-distance cycle routes - 10 - Rennsteig Bike Route

Wide cultural landscapes and historically significant places are the special features of this 200 km long route from Hörschel near Eisenach through the nature parks Thuringian Forest, Franconian Forest, and Thuringian Slate Mountains/Upper Saale. Up to Blankenstein.

For the athletically ambitious cyclist, sights open up on rustic forest and meadow paths such as the Wartburg near Eisenach, the miniature park “mini-a-thür” in Ruhla, the “Große Inselberg” or the mountain lake Ebertswiese near Floh-Seligenthal.

The route continues to Oberhof, the best-known winter sports resort in Thuringia, with its sports facilities and the Rennsteig Garden. Via Masserberg, a health resort with a spa bath, you reach the glassblowers’ town Neuhaus with its famous wooden church. From here, detours to Lauscha, the cradle of Christmas tree decorations, or to the high ropes course in Steinach are worthwhile.

You pass through the slate, the “blue gold” of the region, at Lehesten before the charming tour ends at Blankenstein on the Saale. The Rennsteig bike route is connected with the Werra Valley, Saale, Ilm Valley, and Gera bike routes as well as the Euregio Egrensis.

The route is suitable for athletically ambitious cyclists and mountain bikers.