Four cycling events between vineyard, field and wine stand - sometimes sporty, sometimes leisurely, always a bit of folk festival and lots of togetherness - For me, Rheinhessen is made for cycling. There are no dramatic climbs here, just open countryside and sweeping views, little surprises along the way, good wines and usually this relaxed atmosphere that makes you feel somehow exhilarated as you pedal along. If this is exactly what you want to experience with other cycling fans and soak up the Rhine-Hessian lifestyle at the same time, the four cycling events I'm about to present to you might be just the thing for you! Four very different experiences - which one suits you?
Cycling on the Rhine: The classic - for those who like to meet people along the way
Once a year, the stretch of the old Bundestraße 9 between Worms and Oppenheim is closed to car traffic. Then 25 km of it belongs entirely to those who want to let it roll undisturbed - whether by bike, inline skates or other non-motorized vehicles. Everything simply rolls here.
It's all about being there and being on the road at this cycling festival. There's plenty going on to the left and right of the route: live music, hands-on activities and, of course, enjoying the day together at the table with wine, bratwurst and grape spritzer. You will find the main stages at the start and finish in Worms-Herrnsheim Castle Park and in Oppenheim. How fast or far you get is of secondary importance on this day.
Good to know: The later in the day, the more crowded. If you prefer to keep moving, go early. If you're looking for the atmosphere, stay put.
When & Where:
Every year in May, 2025 on May 18, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. between Worms and Oppenheim
Trullo cycle tour: the traditional one - for those who like to enjoy themselves along the way
Rheinhessen has its own peculiarities. One of them: small white round buildings called "Trullo", which once offered workers shelter from the sun and rain in the middle of the vineyard. You can find a few well-preserved ones in the south of Rheinhessen. The Trullo cycle tour takes you through precisely this area around Flörsheim-Dalsheim and into the Palatinate - pretty scenic, pretty quiet and pretty beautiful.
The tour is manageable and the wine and culinary stops are worthwhile. Many people bring a picnic blanket, grab some refreshments along the way and simply relax. Often that's all you need.
Missed the appointment? - My tip: It's worth taking a tour outside of the event - then it's really quiet. Use our tour tip for this "Tour de Worms". But on the day of the event, of course, there's more atmosphere and more wine to choose from.
When & Where:
Every year on the third weekend in June, 2025 on June 15 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. in Monsheim.
Sattelfest in the Zellertal: The unknown - for those who like to cycle across borders
Not everyone knows the Zellertal - which is a shame. Between Monsheim and Marnheim, the Sattelfest celebrates precisely this area. Cycle around 30 km from Rheinhessen to the Palatinate through the idyllic picture-book landscape of the Wonnegau region with far-reaching views, small farms and many open doors. At the Sattelfest, the motto is "saddle up", let it roll comfortably and bring time for a stopover or two: Wineries invite you in, there are barbecue and cake buffets, onion tart, homemade lemonade and, of course, Weck, Worscht and Woi - all in a pretty relaxed atmosphere.
What's nice is that it's not a thoroughly styled event and each station shows its very own side and you're right in the middle of it.
Tip for a detour: If you've got power in your legs or e-bike motor, it's worth making a detour to the wine stop in Mölsheim above the main route - a table, a glass, a bit of shade and a great view. And later, it's a relaxed ride back to Zellertal.
When & Where:
Every year in September, 2025 on September 14 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Nibelungengravelride: The adventurous one - for those who like speed, gravel and sweat
Attention gravel fans: The Nibelungen Gravel Ride is new, mysterious - and already legendary, even for an international audience. The routes around Worms lead through forests, vineyards, along country lanes and unpaved paths, inspired by the legendary Nibelungen saga. You're not on the hunt for the fastest time here - you're looking for epic moments, flow and pure riding fun.
Why you should join us: Because this gravel tour not only challenges your legs, but also fires your imagination - and with the Nibelungen saga in mind, every bump on the gravel path takes on a whole new depth. Depending on your ability, you have the choice of different formats from 70 to 150 kilometers and 500 to 1800 vertical meters. And at the end, your entry fee will also benefit a good cause and will be donated to the Worms Children's Hospital.
When & Where:
On 28.06.2025 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. in Worms.
My conclusion: four events, four worlds - all on two wheels
What will stay with you? No matter which event suits you - in Rheinhessen you can see how naturally cycling goes together with all the other pleasant things in life. It's not about distance or speed here. Here it's about feeling the landscape, meeting people, taking a deep breath, enjoying, being outdoors. And no matter which route you end up on - there's always a bit of far-sightedness thrown in!
