The best road cycling routes around Hattingen

Hattingen's road cycling routes offer a diverse landscape, from the mostly traffic-free, asphalted paths along the scenic Ruhr Valley and around lakes like Lake Kemnade and Lake Baldeney, to the undulating hills of the Elfringhauser Schweiz. Many routes utilize converted disused railway lines, providing smooth, traffic-free sections.

While our current selection primarily features moderate to difficult routes, many of the moderate options, especially those along the Ruhr Valley and around the lakes, offer gentle gradients. The Ruhr Weir at Hattingen – Kemnade Reservoir Dam Bridge loop is a moderate option that follows the Ruhr Valley and passes Lake Kemnade, offering a relatively smooth experience.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the region's Elfringhauser Schweiz offers routes with significant elevation gains. A notable difficult route is the Nahmertal (Nahmer Switzerland) – View of the Ennepetalsperre loop from Hattingen (Ruhr) Mitte, which covers over 100 km with substantial climbing.

Cyclists can enjoy the picturesque Ruhr River, Lake Kemnade, and Lake Baldeney. The routes also pass through the scenic Elfringhauser Schweiz with its dense forests and meadows. You might also encounter historical sites like the Hardenstein Castle Ruins or the Blankenstein Castle, and industrial heritage sites such as the Henrichshütte Industrial Museum.

Yes, many routes around Hattingen are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the popular Around Hattingen route, or the Lake Baldeney – Baldeney Lake (Baldeneysee) loop from Hattingen (Ruhr) Mitte, which offers scenic lakeside cycling.

The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Hattingen, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also suitable, though it can be warmer. Winter cycling is possible, but some paths might be affected by ice or snow, especially in higher elevations.

While specific 'family-friendly' classifications are not provided for road cycling, the mostly traffic-free, asphalted paths along the Ruhr Valley and around Lake Kemnade are generally suitable for families with older children. These sections offer gentler gradients and a safe environment away from heavy traffic.

Hattingen's historic Old Town often serves as a convenient starting point, and parking facilities are typically available there. Many routes also begin near popular attractions or lakes, where dedicated parking areas can be found. It's advisable to check specific route details for recommended parking spots.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the varied landscapes, from the tranquil riverside paths to the challenging hills of the Elfringhauser Schweiz, and the well-maintained cycling infrastructure that often utilizes converted railway lines.

Absolutely. Hattingen's historic Old Town, with its medieval half-timbered houses, is a great starting or finishing point for rides. Many routes pass near or offer easy detours to attractions like the Steinhausen Castle with sculpture garden or the Isenburg Castle Ruins, allowing you to blend your ride with cultural exploration.

Yes, the region is well-equipped with places to stop. Routes along the Ruhr Valley and around lakes like Kemnade and Baldeney often have cafes, restaurants, or beer gardens. The historic Old Town of Hattingen also offers numerous options for refreshments before or after your ride.

There are over 20 road cycling routes around Hattingen listed on komoot, offering a wide range of distances and difficulties to explore the region's diverse landscapes.