Naturparke-Gravel-Crossing Tag 1 - Von Mannheim nach Neckargemünd

Out of the big city of Mannheim and into gravel fun in the Odenwald. The first stage offers plenty of elevation gain and scenic highlights.

From Mannheim, the route covers 65 km and 1400 meters of elevation gain through the Rhine plain, the Odenwald and into the Neckar valley.

From Mannheim, the route leads through the Rhine plain towards Hirschberg on the Bergstraße and up into the heights of the front Odenwald. From here, there are always great views of the surrounding area.

Through deeply incised valleys and hills shaped by the cultural landscape, the route leads via Heiligkreuzsteinach and Wilhelmsfeld to the Teltschikturm. From its platform at a height of 35 meters, it offers an impressive view of the landscape.The route then continues through the forest towards Heidelberg with varied routes and the first views of the Neckar valley.

A break is recommended in Heidelberg before the last major climb of the day up the Königsstuhl. Once at the top, there is a magnificent view over the Neckar valley, the Rhine plain and, in good weather, as far as the Palatinate Forest.

The end of the stage rewards you with a descent through the forest and over gravel roads towards Neckargemünd.