Many paths lead to Franconian Switzerland, but one of the most beautiful starts right in Erlangen. Here, the affectionately named "Berch," the first foothills of Franconian Switzerland, welcomes cyclists on their tour to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bamberg. Wild valleys and hills, staunch castles, and Franconian hospitality make the tour a sporting delight.
From the starting point at the Tourist information Leaving the Huguenot town to the east, you cycle through a slightly uphill agricultural landscape. Shortly before Weißenohe, where a short detour to the Monastery Brewery The first major climb awaits you. In Hiltpoltstein, your efforts are rewarded. There, perched on a high rocky massif, is the Castle above the Upper Franconian market. From there, the route continues mostly downhill to Ebermannstadt, passing the small, idyllic Trubach river the ski-racer.
The Trubachtal offers a Panoramic view of the landscape typical of Franconian Switzerland. In Egloffstein, the houses climb up the rocky slopes. The castle there watches over the Trubachtal, which opens towards Pretzfeld and is characterized by fruit cultivation. Then you reach Ebermannstadt, the central town in Heart of Franconian SwitzerlandThere you can simply recharge your batteries and restock your provisions before heading off Leinleiter Valley goes uphill again.
Directly on the tour you pass through Heiligenstadt i. OFr., where a charming, romantic town center invites you to a small refreshment. At the end of the town there is a Natural bathing lake with Kneipp facilities, from which the last major climb leads through untouched nature. Now the so-called Franconian Tuscany, which extends all the way to Bamberg. You should save some remaining energy for this UNESCO World Heritage Site, as a stroll through the city is an absolute must. For the return journey, the main train station is an option. There are direct ICE, regional, or S-Bahn connections to Erlangen.
Alternatively, the tour continues via Strullendorf to Hirschaid. From there, follow the canal route of the Regnitz Cycle Path via Forchheim back to Erlangen.
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