Wide views and rural life – Vogelsberg Southern Railway Cycle Route

Relaxed cycling through an impressive low mountain range, rustic villages, wonderful views, impressions of real rural life and interesting insights into the volcanic past of the region – the Vogelsberg Südbahnradweg (Vogelsberg Southern Railway Cycle Route) offers all this in abundance.

The 33-kilometre (20.5 mile) long cycle path connects the Vulkanradweg (Volcanic Cycle Path – komoot.com/collection/764) and the Hessian Long-Distance Cycle Path R3. The topography of this region in the heart of Germany is particularly interesting. The region of Hartmannshain is about 400 metres (1,312 feet) higher than the town of Wächtersbach. You cycle through this beautiful landscape from the heights of the Vogelsberg down to the Kinzig Valley, with only a few climbs on the way. If you ride in the other direction, you’ll need more time, of course. The Vogelsberg was formed by volcanic activity and you can learn more facts about the region’s interesting history on information boards en route.

In general, you can take your time here as you enjoy riding through forests and fields with the hustle and bustle of the big cities far away. You can stock up on picnic supplies at one of the many organic farms along the route, as there are plenty of nice places to rest.

Following mostly farm tracks, the route traces the route of the former Südbahn (southern railway) as closely as possible. The railway ceased to operate more than 50 years ago and has since been transformed into the Südbahnradweg that is part of the Hessian Railway Cycle Path. Together, these routes form a large loop on a network of former railway lines.

The town of Wächtersbach, the destination of this adventure, is located directly on the Frankfurt-Fulda-Kassel railway line and on the R3 long-distance cycle route and is therefore well-connected. You can reach the starting point in Hartmannshain, for example, via the Vulkanradweg or the "Vulkan Express" bicycle shuttle service (bicycle transport is free of charge on all weekends and public holidays from May to October).