Best historic site trails in Herdecke

Popular circular hiking trail on Lake Hengstey, North Rhine-Westphalia. This circular trail offers a successful mix of nature and history. The majority of the trail runs directly along the banks of Lake Hengstey. After completing around half of the route, you reach the well-preserved ruins of Hohensyburg Castle, which was built around 700. Highlights of the hike: - Lake Hengstey - Hohensyburg castle ruins - Several viewpoints - Ruhr Valley - high trail

The trail's hiking sign is H2, a yellow background for the feeder road and a black background for the hiking trail. You can walk southwards from Herdecke railway station and follow the signs along the Ruhr. The route is quite steep in places, following the former road used by charcoal burners and forestry workers. Depending on your fitness level and breaks, you can allow 3 to 4 hours for the loop.

The H4 circular hiking trail takes around 4 hours to complete. In principle, the hike can be started at any point. Part of the route is a relaxed walk on flat paths along the Ruhr to the southern end of Lake Hengstey. Highlights along the route include the Schiffswinkel, the Hengsteysee, the Mühlenteich, the Harkortsee and the Koepchenwerk. The viaduct, which marks the landmark of the town of Herdecke and was completed in 1878, can also be marvelled at.

Accessible by train/bus