Brief information on the popular cycle path on the Ruhr
The 240km-long Ruhr Valley Cycle Path runs mainly along the river. For the most part, you drive on uniformly signposted cycle and farm tracks that are separate from car traffic. The Ruhr cycle path is by no means lacking in infrastructure: the numerous passages through the town allow for plenty of options for sightseeing.
Our most popular cycle tours in the Ruhr Valley
Winterberg – Duisburg
One of the most varied rivers in Germany is the perfect backdrop for our cycle tour from Winterberg to Duisburg. Cycle through the beautiful Ruhr Valley, enjoy the calm natural landscape and experience great stage locations such as Neheim, Hattingen, Kettwig and of course Duisburg.
Course of the Ruhr
The source of the Ruhr
The Ruhr has its origin in the Sauerland, which is also known as the ‘Land of a Thousand Mountains’. The source of the river, which flows at around 2500 litres per hour, is located directly in the Sauerland-Rothaargebirge nature park.
Elevation profile
The source of the Ruhr is at an altitude of 660m and the mouth of the river to the Rhine is about 20m above sea level. For those who like a hillier tour, the first stages of the Ruhr Valley Cycle Path are certainly the most appealing. There are some inclines to overcome, especially on the first 35 kilometres of the route. The course is then very flat and invites you to take a leisurely bike ride.
Length of the Ruhr
With a length of 250km, the Ruhr is the sixth largest tributary east of the Rhine. The largest cities along the Ruhr are Winterberg, Bestwig, Arnsberg, Frödenberg, Witten, Essen and Duisburg.
Cycling on the north or south bank of the Ruhr
The Ruhr Valley Cycle Path runs on both the north and south banks of the Ruhr. Again and again you cross the bridges of the Ruhr so that you don’t miss the most beautiful stages of the cycle path.
Hight profile
Questions and answers about the Ruhr Valley Cycle Path
The most beautiful towns on the Ruhr Valley Cycle Path
In addition to the unmistakable landscapes, mountains and forests of the Sauerland, the Ruhr also meanders through various small towns that are characterised by industrial monuments and timbered houses. There are also numerous castles and museums. It definitely won’t get boring on the Ruhr Valley Cycle Path!
Duisburg
As an original ironworks, Duisburg-Nord is one of the most important industrial monuments in Europe. Experience cultural highlights in a unique setting and enjoy the view from the blast furnace. A visit to the Dellviertel is an absolute ‘must’ in Duisburg. With its many avenues and small alleys, the trendy district invites you to stroll, stop and linger. If you still have time, a visit to the Duisburg-Nord Landscape Park should not be missed. The industrial culture in the Ruhr area is reflected in the disused ironworks. Admission is free and there are many leisure activities available, among other things.
Winterberg
From the neighbouring towns, the inhabitants of Winterberg are affectionately known as ‘Aggerfriäter’ (egg eaters). Why? Their traditional bacon pancakes and eggs are known beyond the city walls. In addition to the culinary delicacies, Winterberg also offers numerous sights, for example the St. George Schanze or the Panorama Adventure Bridge.
Bestwig
There is also a lot to see in Bestwig: from the Ramsbeck mine, which offers a visit to the exhibition and a trip to the ore mine, to various castles and half-timbered house – there is really something for everyone!
Arnsberg
In addition to the culturally rich Arnsberg Castle, there is also the Sauerland Museum, which only reopened its doors in September 2018 after years of renovation. The picturesque old town can also be admired in Arnsberg. Stroll through the city’s squares and parks in the evening and enjoy the picturesque views.
Fröndenberg
In Fröndenberg the Westphalian chain forge museum is located in the former Himmelmann paper mill. Fröndenberg also has two outdoor pools on offer. There is also Schwerter Senfmühle on the way to Witten, which offers informative tours as well as various types of mustard for tasting.
Witten
Which almost 600 years of tradition, the ‘Zwiebelkirmes’ takes place in Witten every year. And the Herbeder Oktoberfest is held every year. Apart from that, one can marvel at the industrial museum ‘Zeche Nachtigall’ all year round, of course!
Essen
Here you have the opportunity to marvel at the oldest blast furnace in the Ruhr area. In addition, a pilot project for the whole of Germany was started with RS1 – the Ruhr rapid cycle route. The first section between Essen and Müllheim an der Ruhr has already been completed. So get going!
Ruhr Valley Cycle Path Map
Other popular cycle paths in Europe
Altmühltal Cycle Path
Along the tracks of the romans and aristocrats
Lake Constance Cycle Path
Feel the wind at your back around the Swabian Sea
Danube Cycle Path
All information and tour tips for the most popular cycle path in Europe
Drau Cycle Path
Pleasant cycling on the south side of the Alps
Elbe Cycle Path
Enjoyment and activity along the Elbe
The Adige Cycle Path
From the majestic alps of south tyrol to the city of true love
Inn Cycle Path
The 3-county cycle path for all
Lech Cycle Path
Experience impressive nature on the Lech cycle path
Loire Cycle Path
The lucky Loire
Main Cycle Path
Relaxes through franconia - info and tour tips
Moselle Cycle Path
Information and tips about the remote path on the mosel
Mur Cycle Path
The blue artery through the green heart of Austria
Neckar Cycle Path
Along idyllic nature and historic towns
North Sea Cycle Route
Cycling along the rugged coastal landscape
Baltic Sea cycle path
Wild charm with mild temperatures
Rhine Cycle Path
Cycle in the footsteps of the Loreley
Ruhr Valley Cycle Path
Info and tips for your cycling holiday on the Ruhr
Tauern cycle path
High heights on your bike!
Alpe-Adria Cycle Path
Pedalling at full stream from the magnificent Austrian Alps to the Italian Adriatic
Lahn Cycle Path
A Cycle tour through the Rothaar Mountains
Weser Cycle Path
Cycling to the North Sea Coast
