Schwarzwald adventure: the 5 best biking routes for families

Schwarzwald adventure: the 5 best biking routes for families

April 11, 2025

Schwarzwald, also known as the Black Forest, is a magical land in southwestern Germany that offers an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts. Families with children, in particular, will find ideal conditions for exploring nature's delights together on bicycles. In this article, we'll highlight 5 of the best biking routes that combine scenic beauty, diverse terrain and family-appropriate attractions. From gentle paths through scenic valleys to more challenging trails with breathtaking views, each of these routes has something unique to offer. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure that will not only provide you with great memories, but also allow you to actively spend time in nature.

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Bähnle-Radweg and Black Forest National Park - two pearls of family cycling

Start our adventure with the Bähnle-Radweg, a charming bike path that is perfect for families with children. Running from Bonndorf to Titisee, following in the footsteps of a former railroad line, this path offers an unusual combination of history and nature. With a rating of 4.2 stars, the route is very popular among cyclists. However, it is worth noting that although part of the route follows the flat terrain of the former railroad embankment, some sections can be more challenging.

One review notes: 'Overall, this is a nice and worthwhile bike path, which I rode from the Neustadt train station to the pedestrian parking lot just before Bonndorf. However, it only partially runs along the flat former railroad line. There are also more challenging sections with ups and downs in between.' This is important information for families planning a trip - the route may require some preparation and appropriate equipment.

The surface of the Bähnle-Radweg is varied, which adds character to the route, but can be challenging for the youngest cyclists. As one user describes: 'Overall, the route is about 50% asphalt, 30% gravel, 20% rocky.' This variety of terrain makes the tour interesting, but requires attention and proper bike preparation.

The second gem of family biking in the Black Forest is the Black Forest National Park. With an impressive 4.7-star rating, this park offers not only bike trails, but also unforgettable views and proximity to nature. One visitor describes the place like this: 'Silence, tranquility, green forest, the sound of trees and a forest stream. Do you need anything more to relax from the hustle and bustle of the city?

The Black Forest National Park is an ideal place for families looking to combine active recreation with nature education. The park's bike trails are varied, allowing you to tailor your trip to the abilities of the little ones. As one reviewer notes: 'This place is for lovers of hiking, biking and also motorized tours.'

It's worth noting the differences between the two routes. The Bähnle-Radweg offers a more linear route with elements of railroad history, which may be of interest to children interested in technology. The Black Forest National Park, on the other hand, provides a greater variety of landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities. Both routes have their advantages, but the National Park may be a better choice for families with children of different ages, due to greater flexibility in route planning.

In conclusion, both the Bähnle-Radweg and the Black Forest National Park are excellent options for families planning an active cycling vacation. The choice between the two depends on your family's preferences - whether you prefer a more structured route with historical context or the freedom of wilderness exploration. Regardless of your choice, both locations guarantee an unforgettable experience and the opportunity to spend valuable time in nature.

Zweitaelersteig and Hexentrail -. for families looking for a bigger challenge

For families who feel up to a bit more of a challenge, Zweitaelersteig and Hexentrail offer exciting opportunities. The Zweitaelersteig, with an impressive 4.8-star rating, is a trail that combines scenic beauty with more challenging terrain. Although originally known as a hiking trail, part of the route can also be traversed on bicycles, making it an interesting option for more experienced cycling families.

One user describes the Zweitaelersteig as follows: 'There are great views of the Rhine plain or the Black Forest, some alpine climbs, but also relaxing areas on the 108 km.' This variety of terrain makes the route attractive to families with older children who are looking for a variety of cycling experiences. However, it's worth remembering that the route can be challenging, as another commenter notes: 'A really great multi-day hike. But be careful, it's demanding.

On the other hand, Hexentrail, also known as the 'Witches' Trail, is a real treat for families looking for adrenaline and technical challenges. With a maximum rating of 5 stars, this route is extremely popular among mountain bikers. One user enthusiastically describes: 'A great route that demands a lot. Helmet a must. I ride with a back protector and I think it's better. This is an important tip for families planning a trip - safety should be a priority.

Hexentrail consists of several sections of varying difficulty levels, allowing families to gradually increase the difficulty as they become more skilled. As one reviewer notes: 'The route consists of 5 sections and each of them is interesting. Episode 5 is my favorite because it is very smooth. This variety makes Hexentrail ideal for families with teenagers or older children who already have some off-road riding experience.

When comparing the two trails, a few key differences are worth noting. The Zweitaelersteig offers a longer route with a greater variety of scenery and may be a better choice for families who want to combine cycling with beautiful views and relaxing stretches. On the other hand, the Hexentrail is a shorter but more intense trail, ideal for families looking for a technical challenge and adrenaline rush.

In terms of preparation, both trails require the right equipment and fitness. For the Zweitaelersteig, it's worth getting trekking or mountain bikes with comfortable saddles and wide tires that can handle the varied terrain. For Hexentrail, mountain bikes with good cushioning and protective gear, including helmets and protectors, will be essential.

All in all, both the Zweitaelersteig and Hexentrail offer an unforgettable experience for families looking for more challenging cycling in the Black Forest. The choice between the two depends on your skill level and your family's preferences - whether you prefer a longer, more varied route with beautiful views, or a shorter but more intense technical adventure. Regardless of your choice, both routes guarantee great memories and the opportunity to improve your cycling skills in the picturesque setting of the Black Forest.

Belchen - mountain adventure for the whole family

To conclude our list of the best cycling routes for families in the Black Forest, we can't leave out Belchen - one of the highest peaks in the region, offering unforgettable views and a variety of opportunities for cyclists of all ages. With a 4.6-star rating, Belchen is a destination that combines challenges for experienced mountain bikers with gentler trails for families with younger children.

One user describes Belchen as a 'fantastic place,' highlighting its accessibility: 'nice hill, very easy to get to (paved road) but there is also the option to hike on the hiking trail, skiing infrastructure on site.' This variety of options makes Belchen ideal for families of all skill and fitness levels.

For families who prefer gentler trails, Belchen offers convenient access via a gondola lift. As one reviewer notes: 'Once you arrive and ride the gondola or go for a walk, you can enjoy everything.' This is a great option for families with young children or for those who want to save their energy for exploring the trails at the top.

But the real highlight for families looking for a challenge is the Belchensteig trail. As one user describes: 'A beautiful hiking trail, very narrow, rocky, sometimes with lots of roots, you have to do well on foot. Literally leads through hills and valleys.' It's a route that requires some technical skills, but will reward the family with amazing views and a sense of accomplishment.

It's worth noting that Belchen offers something the other routes in question don't - panoramic views of the Alps. As one reviewer recalls: 'When you reach the top, you will see the Alps with snow, a view that is breathtaking.' It's an added attraction that can be especially exciting for children and adults, adding an educational element to the bike tour.

When comparing Belchen with the previously discussed routes, there are a few key aspects worth noting:

  1. accessibility: unlike the Bähnle-Radweg or the Zweitaelersteig, the Belchen offers a railroad access option, making it more accessible to families with young children or those with less fitness.

2 Variety of routes: Like the Black Forest National Park, Belchen offers trails of varying difficulty, but in a smaller area, making it easier to plan a trip.

3 Views: Belchen is distinguished by its panoramic views of the Alps, which is not offered by the other routes in question.

  1. infrastructure: there is tourist infrastructure, including a restaurant, at the top of Belchen, which can be an added attraction for families.

All in all, Belchen is the perfect culmination of our list of the best cycling routes for families in the Black Forest. It combines accessibility with challenge, offering something for every member of the family. Whether you choose the easier route with a cable car ascent or the more challenging Belchensteig trail, this mountain adventure is sure to leave an unforgettable impression and become a valuable experience for the whole family.

Remember to prepare properly before setting out on any of the described trails, check the current condition of the trails and weather conditions, and adjust the route choice to suit the skills and fitness of all family members. The Black Forest offers incredible opportunities for family cycling, and each of the described routes has its own unique character and attractions. No matter which one you choose, you're in for a great adventure in the heart of the Black Forest!

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