6 stages on the Kocher-Jagst cycle path through southern Germany

The Kocher-Jagst cycle path is a wonderful route along the Kocher and Jagst Rivers in Baden-Württemberg. It takes you along charming paths, far away from crowds, through the beautiful countryside of the Ostalb, Hohenlohe, and Heilbronn. The ADFC (German Cyclists’ Federation) awarded the route 4 out of 5 stars in 2014, and deservedly so.

The Kocher and Jagst rivers both spring in the Ostalb, only a few kilometres apart, near the town of Aalen. They flow in the Neckar near Bad Friedrichshall at almost the same point. This unique geography means you can ride a loop through natural river valleys and to impressive historic sites, with just a few climbs.

On the way, you can stop at medieval towns to take a well-earned rest and wander streets lined with charming half-timbered houses. The nature and history are wonderful in this region. Picturesque meadows extend from the banks of the rivers to thick forests below rolling hills. Magnificent palaces and castles tower high above, backdropped by this wonderful scenery, and waiting to be explored by you.

In this Collection, I’ve divided the 330-kilometre (205-mile) route into six pleasant stages. If you are short on time or if the route is too long for you, there are numerous possibilities to shorten it. The larger towns en route have rail connections so you can, for example, only cycle along one of the rivers from Aalen to Bad Friedrichshall and the return by train. Alternatively, you can use the 13 cross-country cycle paths between Kocher and Jagst to explore the landscapes in less time.

You will find plenty of accommodation along the route in both larger towns and villages. Numerous guesthouses and inns can be found close to nature, offering a particularly idyllic overnight stay. You also don’t need to carry much food in your panniers as you will be spoiled by the regional cuisine and home-cooked delicacies everywhere you go. In the Heilbronner Land, Germany’s first red wine region, dinner is served with a full glass.

If you want to extend your adventure, you can combine the Kocher-Jagst cycle path with the Neckar cycle path (komoot.de/collection/522) or a detour into the lovely Tauber valley (komoot.de/collection/936510).