Bicycling around the KMC (von U. J. Alexander - Adobe Stock)
An Easy Loop Around Ramstein
There is a German saying about there not being bad weather, rather only bad clothing. However, it is nice that it seems to finally be warming up and I no longer want to just hide in my house and binge watch Netflix under a blanket. While a nice stroll is a good way to enjoy the weather, biking one of the many exciting trails in Germany is also a great way to spend the day.
Near Ramstein, there is an easy and level 12-mile route called the “Old avenue-Silbersee loop” that takes in views of the base, plus some local highlights. It takes on average, one hour and 20 minutes.
Beginning at the Miesenbach train station, you pedal south before biking along the fence line of Ramstein Air Base. This area used to be a wetland, and as the route continues its remnants can be seen as you pedal through a nature reserve near Kindsbach. This part of the trail is a nice hard-packed dirt road. You’ll also bike along the treelined “old avenue” rumored to be the remnants of a Roman road.
On your loop back, don’t miss stopping for a drink or a meal at the restaurant on the Silbersee. One of the outdoor tables overlooking the lake makes for a perfect rest stop.
Route details: www.komoot.com/smarttour/15717368.
An Easy Loop Around Ramstein (von U. J. Alexander - Adobe Stock)
German Wine Route
Regular bicycles can be great for everyday, local riding, but if you want to try some of the longer or more difficult trails, an e-bike might be for you. E-bikes, or, electronic bicycles, have special features such as batteries, motors, sensors and controls that give you extra power. You still get the workout from pedaling; however, they do allow you to travel farther, faster.
The German Wine Route is 60 miles of beautiful scenery with plenty of taverns and wineries to stop at along the way. It starts in Bochemheim and ends in Schweigen-Rechtenbach and is a difficult-level trail featuring some steep climbs and hilly spots, perfect for trying out an e-bike.
Explore details at www.german-wineroute.com.
Riding near Rastplatz (Stripes Europe)
Riding the Rivers Near Wiesbaden
Germany’s landscape provides a variety of bicycling opportunities: Ride along one of the many large rivers or challenge yourself with the many hilly trails. Keep your eyes peeled when driving around, especially in small towns and villages for road signs indicating nearby bike trails (i.e. 3km to this town by bike).
Near Wiesbaden, you can ride along the Rhine River on a loop from Mainz to Bingen. This is a roughly four-hour, 40-mile intermediate-level path perfect for a day trip.
Highlights include riding along the smooth, paved Rhine riverside path and taking the ferry across the Rhine near Bingen before looping back up the other side of the river. Along the way you’ll pass the massive baroque palace at Biebrich and Eltville Castle.
Route details: www.komoot.com/smarttour/2442693
