A perfect ride for the weekend, we start at SALA and head east towards Lauf an der Pegnitz. The beginning is easy, with an option to simply follow the riverside trail along the Pegnitz, or take the back streets when pedestrian traffic is high. The first 23km or so are mostly flat until the optional turn-off for Moritzberg in Unterhaidelbach. This is a 2.7-km climb with +207 meters and 7.5% average gradient. It might not be the alps, but it’s one of the best opportunities for climb training as it offers a steady gradient. Once you reach the top, there is a beer garden well worth a stop to catch your breath and a bite. The descent is fast and narrow, so be mindful of pedestrians and cars.
The second half of the tour will feel like a breeze as you cross a continuous series of rolling hills. Once you reach Lauf an der Pegnitz you can sit, grab a snack, re-charge and climb again to Heroldsberg. On the way, you will cross some fields of hops that might make you thirsty for a beer, as you follow the road back to SALA.
What we like about it:
- Rolling hills, optional steep incline (Moritzberg climb)
- Good tarmac, plenty of bike lane options, traffic low to none
- Nice beer gardens and crossing a historic downtown area with plenty of food options
- Extra tip: on hot summer days, you can plan the ride in reverse, take a bit of a gravel road, and reach the Birkensee lake, a great spot for a quick swim.