Best attractions and places to see around Eschbachtalsperre, located in Remscheid, Germany, center around its historic dam and surrounding natural landscape. The Eschbach Dam, completed in 1892, is Germany's first drinking water dam and the oldest in North Rhine-Westphalia. The area offers a circular hiking trail around the reservoir, which also functions as a forest nature trail. This region provides opportunities to explore historical engineering and diverse natural features.
Last updated: May 25, 2026
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Popular around Eschbachtalsperre
Reservoir hikes — easy walks in the Bergisch Land
River dams in Germany’s Bergisches Land
Road Cycling Routes around Eschbachtalsperre
Hiking around Eschbachtalsperre
Cycling around Eschbachtalsperre
MTB Trails around Eschbachtalsperre

Gravel biking around Eschbachtalsperre
Running Trails around Eschbachtalsperre
The Stinthengst Trail is a short, steep single trail to the pond below the dam of the Eschbachtalsperre reservoir. On some days, the Remscheid "Stinthengst" lives in the pond, and it is extremely important to ride the trail without touching the bottom. Whoever finds the lucky fish with the golden crown usually gets one wish granted! 😉 Background: Several local reports describe the wooden fish with a crown that swam as a cult object on Remscheid ponds in the 1960s and 70s. In recent years, it has been temporarily reinstated right here, at the pond below the dam. The last Stinthengst watering was in May 2025. The Remscheid Stinthengst originates from the tradition of the Masurian "Stinthengst" (fish kings) and is a mythical creature that originates from the waters around Mikołajki (Poland). Once caught, he promised the fishermen in whose net he had landed that he would grant all their wishes if only they would spare his life. https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stinthengst
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The Stone Cross is the common name for the memorial located very close to the Way of St. James, where the old military road from Cologne to Dortmund once ran. It bears the weathered inscription: "Pray for the soul of Mr. Josef Weizel, for whose attack this cross was erected, in remembrance of October 17, in the year of our Lord 1554." Further details: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steinernes_Kreuz
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The trail up, once you are over the bridge over the stream, is very challenging.
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Old memorial cross - beautiful legend included.
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Very beautiful path. Almost always shady. Often places to sit.
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Always worth a walk.
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A walk around the dam is always worthwhile.
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It's nice to hike this way.
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The Eschbach Dam is historically significant as Germany's first drinking water dam and the oldest in North Rhine-Westphalia. Completed in 1892, it was a pioneering work in dam construction by Otto Intze, originally built to supply Remscheid with drinking water. Today, it also serves as an emergency water supply, for ecological management, and flood protection.
The area offers lush natural beauty, primarily centered around the reservoir and the Eschbach Valley. You can explore the Eschbachtalsperre Loop Trail, which doubles as a forest nature trail, providing insights into local tree species and the forest ecosystem. The Eschbach Valley Experience Trail leads through idyllic scenery, showcasing the meandering Eschbach river and diverse flora and fauna.
Yes, the Eschbachtalsperre Loop Trail is very family-friendly. It's roughly 3 km long, generally wide, and mostly gravel, making it easy to navigate. The path runs close to the water, offering scenic views and opportunities to observe local flora and fauna. It's suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
The circular hiking trail around the Eschbachtalsperre, known as the Eschbachtalsperre Loop Trail, is approximately 3 kilometers long. It offers a pleasant and accessible walk through the surrounding natural landscape.
Absolutely. The region around Eschbachtalsperre is popular for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for running, cycling, and gravel biking. For instance, there are running trails like the "Eschbach dam – Eschbach Stream loop" and cycling routes such as the "Stone Cross – Eschbach Dam loop." You can explore more options on the dedicated komoot guides for Running Trails around Eschbachtalsperre, Cycling around Eschbachtalsperre, and Gravel biking around Eschbachtalsperre.
Beyond the dam itself, you can discover the Steinernes Kreuz Memorial, an atonement cross commemorating a messenger murdered in 1554, with an information sign explaining its history. Additionally, the Robert Böker Memorial, a bust near the dam, honors the Remscheid merchant and city councilor instrumental in the dam's construction.
Yes, the broader Remscheid area offers several significant attractions. You might consider visiting
Schloss Burg, one of Germany's largest reconstructed castles, offering a medieval experience and panoramic views. Another option is the Textilmuseum Cromford, a branch of the LVR-Industriemuseum, providing insight into the early textile industry. The Remscheid Rathaus and Market Square also offer a glimpse into local life and impressive neoclassical architecture.
Parking is available near the Eschbachtalsperre, often conveniently located close to the A1 motorway rest stop Remscheid. This makes it easily accessible for visitors arriving by car.
The Eschbachtalsperre is beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and vibrant natural colors. Summer is ideal for enjoying the lush greenery, while winter can provide a serene, picturesque landscape, though conditions on trails might vary.
While the immediate area around the dam is primarily natural, there are cafes and restaurants in the nearby towns and within the broader Remscheid region where you can find refreshments and meals after your visit.
Visitors frequently praise the area for its combination of historical significance and natural beauty. Many appreciate the easy and scenic circular trail around the reservoir, the impressive engineering of the Eschbach Dam, and the tranquil atmosphere of the North Shore of the Eschbach Reservoir. The opportunity to observe diverse flora and fauna along the paths is also a highlight.
The main circular path, the Eschbachtalsperre Loop Trail, is generally considered very accessible. It features wide, mostly gravel paths that remain relatively level, making it suitable for most fitness levels, including families and those seeking an easy stroll. Direct access to the water is restricted, but the paths offer continuous views.

