Cycling the Tauber valley: the cycle path through Weikersheim

The Tauber Valley Cycle Path (Taubertalradweg) is one of the most popular cycle routes in Germany, and for good reason. It follows the little river Tauber for about 100 km from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Wertheim, where the Tauber meets the Main. The path is mostly flat or gently downhill, well signposted and largely away from traffic, and it passes right through Weikersheim.

The route

Most people ride downstream, from Rothenburg to Wertheim, over two to four days. The main stops are:

• Rothenburg ob der Tauber: the medieval walled town at the start.
• Creglingen: Riemenschneider’s altar in the Herrgottskirche.
• Röttingen: a little walled town with a castle.
• Weikersheim: the palace and the Baroque garden.
• Bad Mergentheim: the Teutonic Order palace and the spa park.
• Tauberbischofsheim and Wertheim: old towns and the Main at the end.

Day rides from Weikersheim

If you are based in Weikersheim, you do not need to ride the whole route. Two easy day rides:

• Downstream to Bad Mergentheim: about 11 km each way, flat and easy. Visit the Teutonic Order palace and ride back, or take the train.
• Upstream to Röttingen and Creglingen: about 20 km each way, with a gentle climb. See the castle in Röttingen and the Herrgottskirche near Creglingen.

Bikes and trains

You can rent bikes and e-bikes in several towns along the valley; ask your hotel for local hire shops. Regional trains run along much of the valley, between Weikersheim, Bad Mergentheim, Lauda and Wertheim, and usually carry bikes, which is handy if you only want to ride one way. Check bike rules and space when you plan.

Tips

• May, June and September are the best months: warm, but not too hot.
• Book bike-friendly accommodation in advance in summer, especially at weekends.
• Bring a rain jacket, sun cream and water. There are bakeries and cafés in most villages.
• Reward yourself with a glass of local wine. See food and wine of the Tauber valley.