Niederbergbahn Panorama Cycle Track
Cycling on flat terrain through neanderland
Train tracks have been replaced by a cycle path to create a relaxing route through neanderland.
Despite neanderland’s hilly landscape, the Panoramaradweg Niederbergbahn (Niederbergbahn Panorama Cycle Track) in the Mettmann district offers wonderfully relaxed cycling. The route runs for approximately 40 km along a former railway line constructed in the 1920s. The ascents had to be gentle in order to transport people and goods without difficulty – a fact that now benefits cyclists on the trail.
This stretch, which was opened in 2011, leads from Heiligenhaus to Haan via Velbert and Wülfrath and has plenty to offer everyone, not just nature lovers. Along the way, cyclists will discover impressive evidence of engineering and architecture from the past 100 years, including numerous bridges and listed viaducts, which offer spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. In Heiligenhaus, the cycle path also heads past the illuminated Waggonbrücke (Waggon Bridge), a unique bridge made out of a railway carriage.
The trail also offers a few worthwhile detours. The towns along the route entice visitors with their scenic charms and range of cultural attractions. Young families can have a day out at the Freizeitpark Nordstadt – a leisure park with a large play area – entry is free. Also worth a visit is the Zeittunnel (Time Tunnel) in Wülfrath, which simulates a journey back through 400 million years of geological history. However, this is only open during the summer season as it serves as a roosting place for bats during the winter.
Beyond the region, the Niederbergbahn Panorama Cycle Track connects up with other cycle paths such as the Ruhrtalradweg (Ruhr Valley Cycle Path) in Essen-Kettwig and the Korkenziehertrasse (Corkscrew Trail) near Haan, and forms part of the 300 km-long transregional network of Panorama Cycle Tracks.
A comprehensive brochure on the Niederbergbahn Panorama Cycle Track with route descriptions, insider tips and service information can be ordered from the website. The brochure and other practical information can also be downloaded.
More information:
Wülfrath Zeittunnel (Wülfrath Time Tunnel): open from March to October
Freizeitpark Nordstadt (Nordstadt Leisure Park): open all year