Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Road cycling routes
Germany
North Rhine-Westphalia
Ruhr Region
Bochum

Lake of Kemnade

The best road cycling routes around Lake of Kemnade

4.4

(2037)

26,389

riders

337

rides

Road cycling around Lake of Kemnade, situated between Bochum and Witten in the Ruhr region, features dedicated, paved cycling paths. The area is characterized by its green surroundings, the lake itself, and connections to the larger Ruhr Valley Cycle Path. The terrain is generally flat around the lake, with some routes extending into areas with moderate elevation changes. This infrastructure supports a range of road cycling experiences.

Best road cycling routes around Lake of Kemnade

  • The most popular road cycling route is Rheinischer Esel Cycle Path – Elbschetaltrasse Section loop from Hardenstein, a 27.3 miles (43.9 km) trail that takes 1 hour 59 minutes to complete. This moderate route connects to a well-known cycle path, offering varied scenery.
  • Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Kemnader Lake – Bochum Side – Ruhraue Stiepel Riverside Path loop from Hardenstein, an easy 11.5 miles (18.5 km) path. This route provides views of Lake Kemnade and follows riverside paths.
  • Local road cyclists also love the View of the Ruhr loop from LWL-Industriemuseum Zeche Nachtigall, a 13.3 miles (21.4 km) trail leading through areas with views of the Ruhr, often completed in about 56 minutes.
  • Road cycling around Lake of Kemnade is defined by dedicated cycling paths, green landscapes, and views over the Ruhr and the lake. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult ability levels.
  • The routes in Lake of Kemnade are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 2,000 reviews. More than 27,000 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Lake of Kemnade's varied terrain.

Last updated: July 8, 2026

4.5

(2)

23

riders

#1.

Rheinischer Esel Cycle Path – The Elbsche Valley Viaduct loop from Hardenstein

43.9km

01:58

410m

410m

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.

Navigate with device

Send to Phone

Save

Moderate

Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Easy
guide_signup
Let us show you the way with the komoot mobile app
With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

Sign up for free

Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.

Moderate

Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.

Moderate

Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.

Moderate
Sign up for free to see 333 more rides around Lake of Kemnade.

Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Lake of Kemnade

Chasing the flow on coal mines

Hiking around Lake of Kemnade

Running Trails around Lake of Kemnade

Cycling around Lake of Kemnade

MTB Trails around Lake of Kemnade

Gravel biking around Lake of Kemnade

Mountain Hikes around Lake of Kemnade

Other adventures around Lake of Kemnade

Chasing the flow on coal mines

Mountain Biking Collection by

komoot

Tips from the Community

Anna Wanderful 🌲🥾🌳
November 1, 2025, View of Hardenstein Castle

Cool castle, and beautiful during a night hike.

Translated by Google

1

0

There is much to discover around Lake Kemnader

Translated by Google

1

1

Great to see on the ferry ride

Translated by Google

1

0

Timh1970
August 22, 2025, Lohmann-Hütte

Net's Local

Translated by Google

0

0

Anton
August 21, 2025, View of Kemnader See

very beautiful lake

Translated by Google

1

0

a nice view from here 😃

Translated by Google

1

0

Frederik
July 24, 2025, Kemnader See

A great destination for a day trip, whether by bike, on foot, inline skates, etc. The Kemnader Reservoir is accordingly well-visited, but thanks to separate paths for pedestrians and cyclists, you can still make good progress, although caution is advised.

Translated by Google

0

0

Hardenstein Castle is a ruin on the middle Ruhr River, between the Herbede district and the city center of Witten in what is now the Ennepe-Ruhr district of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. It is surrounded by the Hardenstein Nature Reserve of the same name and is located near the Muttental Valley. Until the completion of the Ruhr Valley Railway (now a museum railway) in the 19th century, the castle stood directly on the river. Typologically, the complex, long known as a castle, is a "Festes Haus" (fortified house)—that is, a manor house. It served primarily as the residence of its lordly owners and was therefore only partially defensive. See: https://www.burgfreunde-hardenstein.de/aktuelles.html

Translated by Google

2

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many road cycling routes are available around Lake Kemnade?

There are over 320 road cycling routes around Lake Kemnade, catering to various skill levels. You'll find 52 easy routes, 218 moderate routes, and 56 difficult routes to explore.

What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes around Lake Kemnade?

The immediate area around Lake Kemnade features mostly flat, dedicated paved paths, ensuring a smooth ride. Routes extending further into the region, such as the Rheinischer Esel Cycle Path – Elbschetaltrasse Section loop from Hardenstein, can include moderate elevation changes, offering a more varied and challenging experience.

Are there circular road cycling routes around Lake Kemnade?

Yes, a popular circular route directly around Lake Kemnade is approximately eight kilometers long, offering an accessible and enjoyable ride. The Kemnader Lake – Bochum Side – Ruhraue Stiepel Riverside Path loop from Hardenstein is another excellent option that provides views of the lake and follows riverside paths.

What are some notable landmarks or viewpoints along the road cycling routes?

Cyclists can enjoy picturesque views over the Ruhr and the lake itself, particularly from the north shore. You'll also catch glimpses of the historic Blankenstein castle ruins from Bochum-Stiepel. The Kemnade Towpath offers a romantic resting place with a view of the castle. Other highlights include the View of the north shore of Lake Kemnade and the East Shore of Kemnader Lake.

Are there family-friendly road cycling routes around Lake Kemnade?

Yes, the flat, dedicated cycling paths directly around Lake Kemnade are ideal for families. The approximately eight-kilometer lap around the lake is accessible and enjoyable for various fitness levels, including children. Many routes are separated from pedestrian traffic, ensuring a safer experience.

What is the best time of year for road cycling around Lake Kemnade?

Lake Kemnade is enjoyable for road cycling throughout much of the year. The well-maintained, paved paths are suitable for most conditions. The 'Ruhr Inline' skater path, which is also suitable for cyclists, is illuminated until 11 PM, allowing for pleasant evening rides during warmer months.

Are there places to stop for refreshments or amenities along the routes?

Absolutely. The area around Lake Kemnade is well-equipped with amenities. You'll find numerous beer gardens, cafés, and restaurants available around the lake for refreshments. There are also designated rest areas and gastronomic options along many routes, such as the View of the Ruhr loop from LWL-Industriemuseum Zeche Nachtigall.

What do other road cyclists enjoy most about road cycling in Lake Kemnade?

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 2,000 reviews. Reviewers often praise the dedicated, paved cycling paths, the scenic views over the lake and the Ruhr, and the green surroundings that make for a pleasant riding experience.

Can I connect to longer cycle paths from Lake Kemnade?

Yes, Lake Kemnade serves as a point on the larger Ruhr Valley Cycle Path, offering excellent opportunities for extended tours. You can connect to other towns like Hattingen and attractions further afield, such as Baldeneysee, for longer adventures.

Are there any routes that offer a more challenging road cycling experience?

For those seeking more challenge, routes like The Salzweg Climb – Felderbach Valley loop from Herbede offer significant elevation gain, with over 625 meters of ascent, providing a good workout. Other moderate to difficult routes extend beyond the immediate flat lake area into hillier terrain.

Is there parking available for road cyclists at Lake Kemnade?

Yes, there are various parking options around Lake Kemnade, making it convenient for cyclists to access the routes. Specific parking information can often be found on local tourism websites or detailed route descriptions.

What other activities can be enjoyed around Lake Kemnade besides cycling?

Lake Kemnade is a vibrant leisure destination. Beyond cycling, you can enjoy hiking, inline skating, and various water sports like sailing and surfing. The Heveney leisure pool provides swimming opportunities, and the StrandDeck offers a beach club atmosphere with sand and palm trees.

Most popular routes around Lake of Kemnade

Family-friendly hikes around Lake of Kemnade

Most popular attractions around Lake of Kemnade

Lakes

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.

Rauendahler WaldÜmminger LakeWeitmarer Holz

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Ümminger Lake

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy