On the southern edge of the Ruhr region, you can actively experience structural change by bike or SUP. For paddling enthusiasts, the Ruhr between Hagen and Duisburg, where it flows quietly through seemingly unspoilt landscapes, sometimes through the middle of the city, sometimes past industrial plants and connecting several reservoirs, is ideal for four great one-day stages.
The Kemnader reservoir is perfectly located on the circular cycle route for a short relaxing lap on the SUP. The lake was created in the 1970s and is now a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts. If you would like to hire a bike, you can also start the tour at the Kemnader reservoir at the Gibraltar colliery directly at the bike and SUP hire centre.
The circular cycle route "From Ruhr to Ruhr" (see info box) starts at the historic Henrichshütte and then follows the Glückauf railway line in sections. Where coal wagons once rumbled over the rails, hundreds of cyclists now cycle every day between wooded areas and open landscapes with agricultural use - both commuters in a hurry and relaxed leisure cyclists. Over the entire 57-kilometre circuit, cyclists have to cover 460 metres in altitude with mostly gentle gradients. From the Ruhr Valley, the route leads up towards Bergisches Land. You might not expect the gently rolling landscape here, but if you look closely, you will also discover traces of the industrial past. These relics date back to the early days of Ruhr mining, which began in the south and spread further north over the centuries. Before reaching the Kemnader reservoir, the Hardenstein ferry takes you across the river. Cyclists should also make time for the Henrichshütte, as there is a lot to learn about the steel industry on the Ruhr in the exhibition halls and the oldest preserved blast furnace can be climbed in a lift.
Information for cycling and SUP in the Ruhr region
- General information: for trips to the Ruhr area are available from the tourist office at ruhr-tourismus.de
- Overnight tip: There is a conveniently located caravan site directly at the Henrichshütte, a campsite at the Hattinger Wehr.
- Hire SUP boards: at the windsurfing and stand up paddling school at the Kemnader reservoir: westufer-kemnade.de
- Bike hire stations can be found on the website kemnadersee.de
- SUP tip: Tour on the Ruhr; Here you can find the detailed tour description
- Bike tip: 57 kilometre circular cycle route "From Ruhr to Ruhr"; in the DK tour portal:
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