Attractions and Places To See in Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis - Top 20

The region offers diverse outdoor activities. For cycling, the Ruhr weir and towpath in Hattingen is a popular, flat route suitable for families, connecting to areas like Baldeneysee or Kemnader See. The Kohlenbahn Rail Trail, which includes the Schulenberg Tunnel, is another excellent cycling path built on a former railway line. For hiking, you can explore routes like the Bergbauwanderweg Muttental M2 or trails around the Hasper Dam. You can find more options for hiking and road cycling in the area.

Yes, Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis has several family-friendly options. The Lake Kemnade offers three paved paths for pedestrians, inline skaters, and cyclists, making it ideal for a family outing. The Ruhr weir and towpath in Hattingen is also very suitable for children. Additionally, the Streichelzoo und Wildgehege Hohenstein in Witten provides a wildlife enclosure and petting zoo for discovery and relaxation.

The region is rich in natural beauty. Lake Kemnade is a prominent Ruhr reservoir. You can also visit the Ruhr Waterfalls at Hattingen for a picturesque spot. The Kluterhöhle in Ennepetal is Germany's largest natural cave, stretching 5 kilometers. The Elfringhauser Schweiz offers a picturesque hilly region with numerous hiking trails, and the southern Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis features several dams like the Ennepe Dam and Hasper Dam.

The Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis is deeply rooted in industrial history. The Henrichshütte Ironworks in Hattingen, now the LWL Industrial Museum, provides significant insights into the region's past. Medieval castles like Burg Blankenstein and Burg Wetter offer glimpses into feudal history. The Schulenberg Tunnel is a former railway tunnel, part of the historical Kohlenbahn. You can also find museums focusing on local history, mining, and industrial development, such as the Hagen Open-air Museum and Museum Haus Martfeld.

Yes, the region offers several scenic viewpoints. Burg Blankenstein in Hattingen provides stunning views over the Ruhr Valley. The Ruhr Viaduct at Harkort Lake and the Harkortsee Railway Viaduct offer great photo opportunities and views of the lake and surrounding landscape. The Elfringhauser Schweiz also boasts numerous panoramic vistas.

Beyond industrial sites, you can find unique architecture and cultural spots. The Bügeleisenhaus in Hattingen is an almost triangular house, an architectural point of interest. Wasserburg Haus Kemenade is a moated castle featuring figural fireplaces, wooden ceiling ornaments, and an East Asian art collection. Historic town centers like Hattingen and Wetter are known for their medieval half-timbered houses. The Bandwebereimuseum Elfringhausen showcases the history of ribbon weaving.

Absolutely. The Ruhr weir and towpath in Hattingen connects to the Baldeneysee in Essen or the Kemnader See in Bochum. The Kohlenbahn Rail Trail links Hattingen with Wuppertal, passing through scenic landscapes and tunnels. The broader Ruhr Valley Cycle Path also allows for extensive cycling tours connecting to various regions.

Visitors particularly appreciate the combination of natural beauty and rich industrial heritage. Many enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and wildlife observation opportunities around Lake Kemnade, especially during sunrise. The flat, scenic routes like the Ruhr weir and towpath are highly rated for their accessibility and family-friendliness. The historical significance of sites like the Schulenberg Tunnel also draws interest.

Yes, the region offers a variety of hiking trails. For easier walks, the Bergbauwanderweg Muttental M2 is an option. Moderate trails include the Felderbachtal Nature Reserve loop and the Muttenbach Trail. For more challenging routes, you can explore mountain hikes like the one from Waldbauer/Zurstraße to the Hagen Bismarck Tower and Kaiser Friedrich Tower. More detailed information on various hiking trails is available.

The Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis is defined by its rivers and reservoirs. Lake Kemnade is excellent for cycling, inline skating, and walking along its shores. The Ruhr weir and towpath in Hattingen offers scenic views along the Ruhr River, and you can see the Ruhr Waterfalls at Hattingen. The Hardenstein Ruhr Valley Ferry provides a unique way to experience the river. Additionally, the region has several dams, including the Ennepe Dam and Hasper Dam, which are now primarily drinking water reservoirs but also offer scenic surroundings.

For winter sports enthusiasts, the Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis has two ski lifts. One is located in Breckerfeld, and the other, the northernmost open-air ski lift of the Ruhrgebiet, is in Hattingen. These provide local options for skiing when conditions allow.

The highest elevation in the Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis is Wengeberg in Breckerfeld, standing at 442 meters. This area, part of the hilly landscape, offers opportunities for hiking and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding region.