Ilmtal-Cycle Route

121,1 km long – From the Rennsteig through the Weimarer Land to the Saale

The Ilmtal Cycle Route is one of the most popular cycle routes in Germany. It was the first cycle route in Thuringia to be awarded four stars by the Allgemeiner Deutscher Fahrrad-Club (ADFC) 2022 for the fourth time as an ADFC quality cycle route.

A cycle path with best quality 

From a cycling tourism point of view, this means that – apart from a picturesque landscape – you are also spoilt with the best quality in the areas of navigability, signposting, route guidance, safety and service.

Over a length of 121 km, the Ilmtal cycle path follows the blue ribbon of the Ilm from its origin in the Thuringian Forest near Stützerbach to its mouth on the Saale near Großheringen. It overcomes a difference in altitude of 750-120 m above sea level. The level of difficulty can be classified as easy to medium and is suitable for families with children.

The cycle path with varied stopping points 

The cycle route crosses small villages with charming churches, passes castles, palaces and historic mills, some of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Extensive parks invite you to linger, restaurants to enjoy modern and traditional cuisine and cyclist-friendly accommodation for overnight stays.

Each section has its own charm. The Ilmtal cycle route is suitable for a 3-day tour with connections to long-distance cycle routes, or for shorter day trips.

The railway line runs parallel to the cycle route. The regional express trains with free bike transport and bike compartments run in each direction.

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