Hessischer Radfernweg R4 Self-Guided: Stages, Accommodations & Map 2026
The Hessischer Radfernweg R4 runs north–south from Bad Karlshafen on the Weser to Hirschhorn on the Neckar. It crosses Hessen and also takes you through the Naturpark Habichtswald.
The Hessischer Radfernweg R4 (406.1 km) is a north–south long-distance cycle route across Hessen: you start in Bad Karlshafen on the Weser and finish in Hirschhorn on the Neckar. Along the way, the scenery keeps changing — that’s exactly what makes the R4 feel so varied. According to Radroutenplaner Hessen, the R4 (together with the R6) is the longest of Hessen’s long-distance cycle routes; it also crosses the Naturpark Habichtswald, among other areas. Rider reports also keep mentioning how good the waymarking is, which makes planning and riding it on your own a lot easier. Who’s it for? Touring cyclists and e-bikers who want to string together multiple days back-to-back — and anyone who just wants to pick off individual sections as a weekend ride. If you’re after something completely flat, the R4 isn’t designed as a pure river route — its whole point is cutting right across Hessen. You’re planning your trip yourself: use this info as a base, pick the sections you fancy, and stitch them into your own route.
Route Profile
| Distance | 406 km |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Best Season | Spring, Summer, Autumn |
| Signage | Well signposted |
| Suitable For | Recreational cyclists, Experienced cyclists, E-bike |
| Surface | Mixed |
Hessischer Radfernweg R4 Map
BikeTouri Tip: View the complete route on a map in BikeTouri – with all accommodations and supply points. Also available offline.
The Most Beautiful Section on the Hessischer Radfernweg R4
The standout bit is the stretch through the Naturpark Habichtswald: you ride right through one of the major protected areas on the R4, instead of just rolling past places on the edge. Highlight: the passage through Naturpark Habichtswald is the section many people find the most varied — and within the official Naturpark context it’s explicitly marked out as part of the R4.
Highlights on the Hessischer Radfernweg R4
- Bad Karlshafen: the R4 start point on the Weser.
- Naturpark Habichtswald: R4 section through the protected area.
- Hirschhorn am Neckar: the R4 finish.
- According to Radroutenplaner Hessen, the R4 (together with the R6) is the longest Hessischer Radfernweg.
Accommodations on the Hessischer Radfernweg R4
Along the Hessischer Radfernweg R4 you'll find numerous accommodation options – from hotels and guesthouses to campsites and small tent meadows.
Campsites & Tent Options
Along the Hessischer Radfernweg R4 there are numerous places to camp – from large campsites to small tent meadows on farms. Campsites usually don't need to be booked in advance.
Hotels & Guesthouses
Numerous accommodations along the route – from hostels and guesthouses to hotels. Important for cycle tourists: secure bike storage and no minimum stay requirements.
BikeTouri Tip: BikeTouri shows you all accommodations along the route – with prices, amenities, and reviews from cycle tourists. Also available offline.
Planning Your Hessischer Radfernweg R4 Trip
What should you book in advance?
During peak season (June-August), it's recommended to book accommodations in popular stops 1-2 days ahead. Outside peak season, spontaneous booking is usually possible.
What can you decide spontaneously?
Daily distances, rest stops, restaurant visits, and detours to attractions can all be decided on the day based on weather and how you're feeling.
Typical daily costs
Practical Information
Getting There & Away
The route is well connected by train at both start and end points. Most regional trains accept bicycles, though reservations may be required during peak season.
Shopping Along the Way
Supermarkets and grocery stores can be found in most towns along the route. Plan for longer stretches in rural areas where shops may be limited.
Bike Shops & Repairs
Bicycle repair shops are available in larger towns. Carry basic tools and a spare tube for emergencies between service points.
More Information
Conclusion
Big plus points are the long, continuous north–south line (406.1 km) and, according to rider reports, the excellent signage. At the same time, you need to be up for changing landscapes — and with that, a route that shifts character — rather than one steady, samey river path. If you’re planning independently, the R4 is easy to split into chunks and ride flexibly.
Why BikeTouri?
We don't just show the big campsites – but also small tent meadows, farms, and cyclist-friendly guesthouses. With prices, reviews from cycle tourists, and offline maps.