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.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
4.5
(2)
23
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
4.0
(2)
30
riders
20.3km
00:53
160m
160m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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4.2
(21)
222
riders
25.0km
01:04
160m
160m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
4.0
(1)
20
riders
18.6km
00:50
130m
130m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
6
riders
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Cool castle, and beautiful during a night hike.
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There is much to discover around Lake Kemnader
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Great to see on the ferry ride
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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.
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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
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.


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