“Time to rest” says the weathered sign at Rentners-Ruh. This small clearing offers respite to travelers. It sits near Bamberg on the Main-Donau Canal. People meet here to rest and soak up the sun.
Rentners-Ruh is easily reached by bike. The route follows part of the Regnitz cycle path from Bamberg. You can reach the lock in Bamberg’s south from the city center. Paths lead through the Hain or along the canal. From there, the path goes toward Strullendorf. It passes the “Am Sendelbach” allotment garden and continues along the canal.
After the turnoff at the lock, you can choose your path. Travel on the dam which is gravel or the paved road. Both are easy to ride. Cars use the road up to the allotment garden. Beyond that, only bikes, inline skaters, and walkers pass by. The path runs alongside meadows and forests. If you are lucky, a ship will accompany your tour on the canal.
The paths here are suitable for balance bikes. Children can certainly manage parts of the route themselves. The maximum height here is 250 meters. The minimum height is 234 meters. The total ascent is 79 meters. The total descent is -71 meters.
The Bamberg to Rentners-Ruh round trip is about 12 km. The route is on a paved cycle path. It has moderate car traffic between the lock and the allotment garden. Alternatively, there is a gravel path on the dam crest.
There are alternative routes back to Bamberg. Follow the cycle path south toward Pettstadt. At the first bridge, cross the Main-Donau Canal. Then follow signs to Pettstadt. A gravel path leads to the Regnitz. A small ferry can carry you across for a small fee. From Pettstadt, cycle to Höfen. Pass through the Bruderwald or along the Regnitz. Both paths lead back to Bamberg on a cycle path. This alternative route is about 20 km long.
Another option after crossing the Main-Donau Canal is to go straight. Take the field path directly back to Bamberg. This route crosses fields to the swimming club in Bug. From there, you can reach the center through the Hain. This sunny route offers little shade. This alternative is about 17 km long.
The route is easy and flat. Rentners-Ruh itself offers shade from the nearby forest. The benches at Rentners-Ruh are exposed to the sun. At the “Am Sendelbach” allotment garden is a playground. There are two playgrounds on Adenauer Ufer. You will need to bring your own food. There is a restaurant in the “Am Sendelbach” allotment garden. Also there is a kiosk on Adenauer Ufer.
Be aware of cyclists on the canal road. Also, watch out for the Main-Donau Canal itself.
In 2022, a bronze sculpture by Bamberg artist Adelbert Heil was installed near Rentners-Ruh. The 2.5-meter-high sculpture stands by the bike path. The artwork marks the spot. It encourages conversation and encounters.
A weathered wooden sign at Rentners-Ruh reads: “Many realize life’s goals too late. Joys, beauty, nature, health, travel, and culture missed. Therefore, be wise early! It’s high time. Travel, travel!” So take the advice. Visit Rentners-Ruh and take a break.