Like a Grimm Brothers' fairytale – Bikepacking in the High Meißner

In the middle of Germany lies a small but beautiful piece of nature which is just right for a long weekend bike trip. You cycle through picturesque landscapes, through cozy chocolate-box towns, past castles and palaces and along streams and rivers. This area is also known as 'Frau Holle' (Mother Hulda) Land, because this is where the Grimm Brothers collected inspiration for their fairy tales. In this Collection, I have put together three beautiful routes for you in the middle of the geo-nature park "Frau Holle" Land, which includes the low mountain range Hoher Meißner and the Kaufunger Forest. Come for a bikepacking adventure in the land of fairy tales!

The route takes you 77 miles (125 km) from Kaufungen to Eschwege in three stages. Stage 1 is a round trip through the Kaufunger forest which starts and finishes in Kaufungen. If you only have two days, you can leave this route out. But, if you have three days at your disposal, however, it is well worth including this loop. At the end of stages 1 and 2, you will arrive at a Friends of Nature House (Naturefreundehaus) which are both great accommodation options. Just pack a change of clothes and you're ready to go. On the way you will have the opportunity to buy provisions if you don't want to carry them with you.

The routes are not very long, but are quite hilly, especially the first one. So you will definitely work up a sweat. But the relatively short distances allow you to catch your breath and enjoy the beautiful landscape. The terrain is mostly easy to ride, so a simple mountain bike or gravel bike are suitable.

You can easily catch the train to and from your adventure. You can get to Kaufungen via Kessel and return via Eschwege. From the end destination, you can head straight back home or return to Kassel – whatever suits you. When you are sitting on the train on your way home, you can reflect on your wonderful journey through Frau Holle’s fairy tale home.