Idyllic Route
130 kilometres of idyllic walks and cycling

The well-signposted Idyllic Route runs for 130 kilometres through an outstandingly beautiful holiday and recreation area, past forests, meadows, old mills and original remains or reconstructions of the limes, the boundary of the Roman empire. It leads through the Swabian-Franconian Forest Nature Reserve, one of southern Germany's most delightful areas for walking. Steep, tree-clad slopes, wide-open plateaus, long valleys and dense mixed forests full of mysterious sounds all add to the charms of the nature reserve. There are also fields, pastureland, meadows and forests woven together like patchwork dotted with hamlets and farms. Other features to look out for are the orchid-filled meadows in the valleys, hillside orchards and pastures and dramatic rock formations in the forests of the steep Keuper escarpments.

The Idyllic Route is perfect for walking, cycling and discovering an area with thundering waterfalls and tranquil lakes suitable for swimming. Visitors can admire impressive waterwheels and historical mills on burbling streams, or follow in the footsteps of the Romans. There are fascinating museums, neatly kept villages and romantic little towns all along the route - perfect for whiling away the hours. Priceless collections at a string of castles and palaces reflect the artistic passions of their owners, past and present. This circular route is also suitable for a cycle tour of the Swabian Forest, though touring or mountain bikes are recommended.