The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Kreuzau

From here you have a fantastic view of the Obermaubach reservoir, surrounded by wooded slopes. The lake was created in the 1930s and holds approximately 1.65 million cubic meters of water. Here you can enjoy absolute peace and quiet.

A very communicative bank.

Along the banks of the Eifel reservoirs, such as the Obermaubach Reservoir and the Rursee, you'll frequently find rest stops and picnic areas, but a special feature is the round bench by the water. These benches are often positioned so that you can look all around and enjoy a panoramic view of the lake and the surrounding valleys. Unlike conventional, straight benches, these round seats invite conviviality, as several people can sit comfortably and simultaneously enjoy the view in every direction. A round bench by a reservoir not only serves as a resting place for hikers, cyclists, or fishermen but also forms a natural vantage point. At the Obermaubach Reservoir, for example, such benches are strategically placed along hiking trails and viewpoints overlooking the water and the wooded slopes. From such a spot, you can watch the gently lapping water of the reservoir, observe the surrounding forests and hills, and even recognize the outline of the village of Obermaubach or the dam itself in the distance. These benches are also designed to promote peace and contemplation. The round shape allows you to turn your face towards the sun or the water without having to leave the bench. Moreover, they are often made of sustainable wood or combined with concrete, making them weatherproof and able to withstand years of use, even in the damp environment of a reservoir. For hikers or cyclists following the Rurtalradweg or the trails around the reservoir, the round bench offers an ideal spot to rest, take photos, or simply enjoy the surroundings. The view over the water, the surrounding forests, and the changing light in the morning or evening make this simple arrangement a small but memorable part of the natural experience.

The Rur Valley Cycle Path (in German: RurUfer‑Radweg or RoerOever Fietspad) is one of the most beautiful long-distance cycling experiences in Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands. This route follows the course of the Rur River (Roer in Dutch) for approximately 180 km, from its source in the High Fens (Belgium) through the Rureifel and Düren-Heinsberg region to its confluence with the Meuse River near Roermond. What makes this route so appealing is that you have the river almost constantly at your side, meandering through valleys past nature reserves and historic villages. The cycle paths run both directly along the river and on country roads that regularly offer views of the valley and its meanders. Along the way, you cross the Rur several times over bridges; some are simple cycle paths to the other side, others are old stone and metal structures with historic charm. These bridges serve as functional junctions for the cycle routes and viewpoints, offering beautiful views of the river's course and the surrounding landscape from various points. Rur Bridge and Other Crossings Along sections of the Rur Ufer Cycle Path, there are bridges where the path crosses the river, for example, bridges near villages or at characteristic transitions in the landscape. From these bridges, you often have panoramic views of the Rur Valley with its gentle valleys and wooded slopes, expansive meadows, and river arms in the Heinsberger Land region. And in some cases, the historic buildings close to the riverbanks (for example, around Wassenberg-Orsbeck). This viewpoint is an attractive resting point for cyclists and hikers who pause to enjoy the river's reflection in the water, the surrounding fields or meadows, and the horizon that extends beyond to villages, forests, or winding sections of the Rur Valley. On some connections, such as wooden or concrete bridges specifically built for the cycle path, you can literally stand right above the water and enjoy the view. This makes them natural photo and resting spots, where you can see the river meandering, hear the water lapping, and enjoy views of the typical German river landscape, much appreciated by cyclists who cycle the RurUfer Cycle Path.

The views from the south bank are particularly beautiful.

Beautiful scenery is everywhere here

It's best to hike the route when it's not too hot!

Cycling is not recommended, walking is already a hindrance.