Archaeological finds, geological traces and a walk-through model of the planets give a trip to Hagen several distinct focal points. When choosing a hotel, you can first consider whether early human history, urban exploration or outdoor activities should shape your stay. These topics offer different ways to experience Hagen and help you tailor your trip to your own interests.
Archaeology and geology in Werdringen
The Archaeology Museum Hagen at Werdringen Water Castle displays the oldest known remains of modern humans from the post-glacial period in Europe. The finds are more than 11,000 years old and were discovered in the Blätterhöhle cave in Hagen. This puts early human history at the center, connected to a specific discovery site in Hagen.
In the broader travel destination of Hagen, Werdringen Water Castle was first mentioned in the 13th century; today it is used as a museum and event venue. From the water castle, the Kaisberg Geopath leads to the earliest coal seams in the Ruhr region considered viable for mining. The Archaeology Museum and the geopath offer different focal points: one concerns post-glacial human remains, the other geological coal seams. Those interested in the region’s past will find these two distinct themes at Werdringen Water Castle.
Urban history and special formats
Hagen is home to the world’s first walk-through model of the planets. Large bronze plates lead visitors along several stops across the city. This sets the model apart from a single exhibition: its subject unfolds across stops in the urban landscape.
Another way of exploring history is through the regular guided tours of the Hagen Bunker and other preserved air-raid shelters from the Second World War and the Cold War. They are organized by Hagen Adult Education Center together with the City Archive and City Museum. While the planet model is defined by bronze plates and stops around the city, these visits focus on guided tours through the shelters.
Further perspectives in the broader travel destination of Hagen
Together with the Osthaus Museum Hagen and the Emil Schumacher Museum Hagen, the Hagen City Museum forms Hagen’s museum quarter. The City Museum offers guided tours, workshops and activity days for visitors of all ages. It is family-friendly and provides families with a museum backpack for exploring independently.
For a hike, the broader travel destination of Hagen offers the nearly twelve-kilometer 3 Towers Trail. The circular route passes the Bismarck Tower, Kaiser Friedrich Tower and Eugen Richter Tower. The Ruhr, Volme, Lenne and Ennepe rivers invite visitors to fish, pedal boat and canoe. The Lenne Whitewater Park hosts international races and is suitable for hobby paddlers as well as elite athletes.
There is also a specific place to take a break in the broader travel destination of Hagen: the castle café at Werdringen Water Castle serves coffee, cake and waffles, as well as vegetarian and vegan dishes. This makes it easy to plan culture, activity and a meal out as different interests for your stay.
By the water and choosing accommodation
SeeBad at Lake Hengstey is located directly on the Ruhr Valley Cycle Route. The history of SeeBad as a popular destination for the people of Hagen and bathers from the region goes back to 1929. In the broader travel destination of Hagen, SeeBad Hengstey is a year-round destination for walkers, cyclists, water tourists and other visitors, in addition to its summer swimming season.
When looking for hotels in Hagen, a particular theme can be a good starting point: those especially interested in the archaeological finds can focus on Werdringen; the planet model offers a different way to discover the city, while trails and water activities appeal to those interested in the outdoors.
For the full travel overview: Hagen.
