Malsfeld: Cycling Routes, the Fulda and Milling History

Cycling routes with a range of distances

The 236-kilometer Fulda Cycle Route R1 runs through Malsfeld and Beiseförth. A shorter, clearly defined tour is the 22-kilometer Beisetal Mill Cycle Route: it starts at the source near Hainrode, runs through the Beisetal valley and ends where the Beise flows into the Fulda at Beiseförth. If you want to explore longer-distance cycling routes, the Hessian Long-Distance Cycle Route R5 is another option. The 234-kilometer route, also known as the North Hesse Route Eder-Fulda-Werra, runs through Beiseförth.

The Beiseförth recreation area can also be reached in several ways: by car via the A7 and B 83, by bicycle via the R1, which runs 200 meters away, or by canoe and kayak along the Fulda. There is a dedicated landing stage there. These routes and distances provide specific reference points when choosing excursions around Malsfeld.

The Fulda, Beiseförth and the Fairy-Tale Mill

You can explore the Fulda in the Malsfeld area by boat and canoe. In Beiseförth, the natural swimming lake and campsite are located together on the edge of the village, right beside the Fulda. The lake was created from a former gravel quarry. The campsite offers pitches for motorhomes, caravans and individual tents, as well as sanitary facilities.

The Beiseförth Fairy-Tale Mill is a family destination themed around fairy tales. It presents fairy tales by the Brothers Grimm together with explanations. Miniature houses stand along a small stream fed by a spring on Beisenberg. Directly opposite is a Kneipp facility with benches; it is continuously supplied with fresh, cold spring water from Beisenberg. This place combines fairy-tale motifs with small details by the water.

Mills, brewing tradition and culture

The history of milling in the Beisetal valley tells of the landscape’s former use: there were once 26 mills along the Beise. At least twelve still exist by name; some mill wheels have survived and are still in operation. The Beisetal Mill Cycle Route runs through the valley. In Malsfeld, the short Brewery Heritage Trail also highlights historic brewing sites. The Brewery Museum showcases the town’s centuries-old brewing tradition.

The Basket-Maker Museum offers further insights into crafts and everyday life. There you can see a variety of wickerwork, individual stages of basket making and finished wicker goods, including cradles, chests and baskets. Historical documents, tools, photographs and picture panels provide insight into rural life, past and present. Art exhibitions and cultural events take place at the Art and Culture Mill in Beiseförth.

Exploring on foot and finding your way

The 193-kilometer Elisabeth Trail 2 runs through Malsfeld as part of the Hessian Way of St. James. The municipality has routes for shorter walks and hikes, although not all are signposted yet. Malsfeld provides hiking routes for download, so you can choose in advance. The Brewery Heritage Trail adds another option: a short circular walk to historic brewing sites.

Malsfeld and Beiseförth have stops on the Kassel–Bebra railway line, with free parking available at both. You can therefore consider both places as railway stops when planning your journey. Please also note: the bicycle cable ferry across the Fulda between Morschen and Malsfeld is closed until further notice.

Discover more places

Schrecksbach, Jesberg, Fritzlar, Morschen, Niedenstein, Gilserberg, Oberaula and Schwarzenborn.

For the overarching travel guide: Schwalm-Eder District.