Solingen between heathland, hiking trails and cycling routes

Solingen offers travelers a variety of ways to explore: protected landscapes, a long-distance hiking route and a dedicated route for pedestrians and cyclists. The Ohligser Heide, Klingenpfad and Korkenziehertrasse differ in character and scale. This makes it possible to choose accommodation based on which side of Solingen you want to shape your stay: nature, hiking or cycling.

Ohligser Heide: protected wet and dry heathland

The Ohligser Heide nature reserve is in Solingen and covers 147.24 hectares. Its landscape includes open, species-rich areas of wet and dry heathland. It also features carr and birch bog woodlands, shaped by waterlogging and, in some places, flowing water. The heathland therefore represents more than just open spaces: wet woodland habitats and different types of heathland are also part of its character. For a trip focused on natural landscapes, the Ohligser Heide offers a clear focal point.

The area is one of the last remaining heathland bog areas on the right bank of the Rhine’s heath terrace. Its outstanding significance is linked to numerous plant communities and species of heathland bogs, carr woodlands and nutrient-poor waters that are endangered throughout the state. The Ohligser Heide therefore combines a specific area size with a rare and ecologically significant landscape feature. It is a reason in its own right to explore Solingen beyond its hiking and cycling routes.

Klingenpfad: hiking route through forests, valleys and high ground

The Klingenpfad is a 75-kilometer hiking trail around the city of Solingen. It passes through forests and valleys and over high ground, as well as by historically significant sites. Landscape and history therefore share the same route. The trail is divided into nine sections, each signposted in both directions. The total length indicates the scale of the trail, while the nine sections show how it is organized. These details help put the Klingenpfad in context as a longer hiking route and distinguish it from a single, shorter trail connection.

Korkenziehertrasse: car-free route for pedestrians and cyclists

The Korkenziehertrasse is an eleven-kilometer route for pedestrians and cyclists. From the Haan city boundary, it runs through Gräfrath, Wald and Mitte to Südpark. The route is car-free and has almost no inclines. Compared with the 75-kilometer Klingenpfad, it offers a different kind of route: shorter, designated for pedestrians and cyclists, and almost flat. Its connection beyond the city limits is also part of its profile. The Korkenziehertrasse and the Bergbahntrasse branch connect Solingen to the Bergisches Panorama Cycle Route.

Schloss Burg as a place to visit

Schloss Burg adds a sightseeing option to the nature and route offerings. Visitor information notes that almost all rooms can be viewed. Check the latest information about visiting options before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Bonn, Mülheim an der Ruhr, Gelsenkirchen, Wuppertal, Duisburg, Essen, Remscheid, Oberhausen.

Back to the main travel overview: North Rhine-Westphalia.