The best traffic-free bike rides around Hattingen

There are over 20 dedicated traffic-free road cycling routes around Hattingen, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. This includes routes along converted railway lines and picturesque riverside paths.

You'll find a mix of terrain. Many routes, like those along the Ruhr Valley Cycle Path, offer mostly flat, riverside paths. For more challenging rides, the Elfringhauser Schweiz area to the south provides rolling hills and significant elevation gains, all designed to keep you away from heavy traffic.

Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for beginners. For example, the View of the Vosges loop from Hattigny is a shorter, gentler option. Many converted railway lines also provide smooth, flat surfaces ideal for a relaxed ride.

Hattingen's routes offer access to beautiful natural features. You can enjoy views of the Ruhr River, explore extensive forests, and cycle past various lakes like Lake Kemnade. The Fairies' Rock offers superb views of the Moselle Vosges, and the Devil's Rock Viewpoint provides another scenic stop.

Yes, many of the traffic-free routes are designed as loops. An example is the moderate Crossing the small pond – The Great Lock of Réchicourt loop from Hattigny, which allows you to start and finish in the same location while exploring the area.

Hattingen beautifully blends nature with its industrial past. You can encounter significant structures like canals and locks, including the impressive Great Lock of Réchicourt. The former Henrichshütte ironworks is a notable historical site, and the old town of Hattingen itself, with its over 150 half-timbered houses, is a charming attraction.

Absolutely. The region is rich with lakes. Routes often pass by or loop around bodies of water such as Lake Kemnade, Baldeneysee, and the Etang de Gondrexange. The Gondrexange Little Pond is a prominent feature on several routes, including the Gondrexange Little Pond – B17 commemorative stelle loop from Hattigny.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.26 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained, traffic-free paths, the diverse landscapes that combine natural beauty with industrial heritage, and the opportunities for both leisurely rides and more challenging climbs.

For those looking for a longer, moderate challenge, the Cordeliers Chapel – Gondrexange Little Pond loop from Hattigny offers a substantial ride of over 55 kilometers with varied terrain, keeping you away from busy roads.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Hattingen, with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also popular, but it's advisable to start earlier in the day to avoid the midday heat. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially wet conditions.

For broader information about Hattingen's attractions and activities beyond cycling, you can visit the official tourism website: hattingen-tourismus.de.