Puderbacher Land bike circuit: a ride with ups and downs

Description

The starting point is Raubach, but I could also choose some other place. The route through the Rhein-Westerwald Nature Park begins with several climbs.
On the way to Oberdreis, I encounter a natural monument as high as a house: the Beilstein. There is a pottery in the village, and I can watch the pottery work or try it myself.
In Döttesfeld, about 100 meters next to the bike path, there is a Kneipp wading facility. It is the only one in the area located in a flowing watercourse. Here I can refresh my tired cyclist legs by vigorous water treading.
The path takes me further to the Hölderstein. I can climb the impressive slate rock formation with the right equipment, which I can rent on site. I can choose between the normal route and the via ferrata.
A little further on, I get off the bike again, because the nature trail at Dürrholz-Daufenbach is especially interesting. Recently, football golf has also been offered in Daufenbach – football is combined with golf and minigolf to create a new sport and fun game.
In Urbach, there is a village museum that invites me to visit by prior appointment, and I can relax extensively at the pond there. Soon the path takes me back to Raubach.

Approach

Take the A3, exit 37-Dierdorf, L266 and L264 to K124 in Raubach

Public transport

Sieg route (Cologne - Au/Sieg - Betzdorf - Siegen): Altenkirchen (about 10 km away)

Parking

Parking options:

• Raubach - Schützenhaus
• Urbach - school center / sports field
• Döttesfeld – country inn Zum Wiedbachtal (200 meters to the bike path)
• Lautzert – village community center and/or sports field
• Dernbach – industrial area, which is located directly next to the bike path

Directions

The route is about 44 kilometers long and starts in Raubach at the shelter. I head east and follow the markings that lead me upwards and into the forest. Soon I am heading north towards Hanroth and Woldert. After some climbs, the path behind Lautzert points to Rodenbach near Puderbach, and I ride downwards towards the southwest. For long stretches, I am guided through the forest and enjoy the fresh air. I bypass Döttesfeld and reach the lovely Grenzbachtal. Much has been restored here in recent years, creating what is now an ecologically valuable, bright valley. On the following section, I can rest as it goes south without major climbs. Then there is a longer climb towards the southeast to Linkenbach before it goes downhill again towards Urbach. Once more up and down, and I have reached Raubach, the starting point of the circular route.

Safety instructions

Very good fitness required.

Since the path leads off busy roads and thus over agricultural and forest roads, we point out that at least a trekking bike is required for riding.

Equipment

For bags and backpacks on a cycling trip, not only the back offers space – the weight of the equipment should ideally be distributed over several body and bike parts. Wind, rain, or sun can lead to very different temperature sensations on the bike – a cold can be best avoided with professional cycling clothing. On a multi-day route, you should always have suitable change clothing handy to be prepared for every eventuality. Besides other important equipment, do not forget the necessary tools and repair items. At high speeds, it’s easy to take a wrong turn on a bike trip: traditional and modern aids such as a bike map or GPS device serve for orientation. You should also always carry a small emergency kit with you.

Tips

For those who want to see even more: The ruin of Reichenstein Castle is remarkable; it lies about two kilometers northwest of Puderbach. Please call in advance and make an appointment!

Literature

Combined flyer cycling/hiking, available free of charge here!

Destination

Raubach, Schützenhaus, Elgerter Straße

Starting Point

Raubach, Schützenhaus, Elgerter Straße