The best traffic-free bike rides around Stausee Hengsen

There are over 300 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Stausee Hengsen, offering a wide variety of options for all skill levels. You'll find approximately 138 easy routes, 127 moderate routes, and 49 more challenging options.

The routes around Stausee Hengsen offer diverse scenery, including sections through forests like the Bahnwald, open grasslands, agricultural areas, and directly alongside the reservoir. You'll also enjoy scenic views of the Ruhr River meadows, particularly on routes starting from Schwerte.

Yes, many of the no-traffic routes around Stausee Hengsen are suitable for families. The paths are generally well-maintained and mostly flat, making them ideal for leisurely rides. An excellent option is the approximately 10 km long circular path around the reservoir, which is easy to navigate. Consider routes like the Ruhr Valley Cycle Path – Ruhrflutbrücke Ergste loop from Mühlenstrang for a gentle, enjoyable ride.

The area is enjoyable for touring cycling throughout the warmer months, from spring to autumn. Spring brings blooming nature, while autumn offers beautiful foliage. The well-maintained paths are generally suitable in most weather conditions, but checking the local forecast is always recommended for the most comfortable experience.

You'll encounter several interesting sights. The Hengsen Reservoir itself is a focal point, along with the Cormorant Island within it. The Bahnwald Nature Reserve offers rich flora and fauna. You can also spot the old railway bridge over the "Obere Ruhrtalbahn" on some routes. For a scenic ride with reservoir views, try the View of the Hengsen Reservoir – View of the Ruhr loop from Hennen.

Yes, circular routes are a popular feature around Stausee Hengsen. The approximately 10 km path directly around the reservoir is a well-known circular option. Many other routes, such as the Ruhr Meadows near Schwerte – View of the Ruhr loop from Hennen, are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 9,400 ratings. Reviewers often praise the tranquil environment, the well-maintained, traffic-free paths, and the diverse natural scenery that makes for a relaxing and enjoyable cycling experience.

Yes, the routes are generally easy to access, with parking available nearby. Many starting points for the cycling tours offer convenient parking facilities, making it simple to unload your bike and begin your ride.

Absolutely. The cycling paths often run alongside walking trails, making it easy to combine a bike tour with a stroll. Stausee Hengsen is also an excellent spot for birdwatching, with various species like cormorants, geese, and ducks. The Bahnwald Nature Reserve is particularly rich in wildlife.

While the reservoir itself is primarily a natural area, you can find local eateries and refreshment options in the nearby communities of Fröndenberg, Holzwickede, and Schwerte. Some routes may pass by places like "Treffen anne Ruhr," which offers refreshments from a food truck, providing convenient stops during your tour.

Many of the no-traffic touring routes around Stausee Hengsen are relatively flat, making them accessible for cyclists of all fitness levels. For example, the Ruhr Valley Cycle Path – Ruhr Floodplain Nature Reserve loop from Mühlenstrang has an elevation gain of less than 50 meters over its 11.5 km distance. Even moderate routes like the Jewish Cemetery Path in Hennen – View of the Ruhr in Schwerte loop from Hennen, which is nearly 30 km long, feature manageable climbs of around 250 meters.