Despite the region’s hilly landscape, day-trippers enjoy a wonderfully relaxed ride along the Niederbergbahn Panorama Bike Trail in the Mettmann district. That’s because the approximately 40-kilometer-long route follows a former railroad right-of-way built in the 1920s. To ensure that passengers and freight could be transported without difficulty, the gradients had to be gentle—which today makes for a very pleasant bike ride.
Opened in 2011, the route runs from Heiligenhaus through Velbert and Wülfrath to Haan and has plenty to offer—not just for nature lovers. Along the route, you can also explore impressive examples of engineering and architectural achievements from the past 100 years, including numerous bridges and historic viaducts, which offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. In Heiligenhaus, the bike path also passes the illuminated Waggonbrücke, a structure unique in all of Germany.
Side Trips Along the Way
But detours off the main route are also worthwhile. The towns along the way attract visitors with their scenic beauty and cultural offerings. Families with children can take a detour to the Nordstadt Recreation Park, a large playground that’s free to visit. Also worth a visit is the Time Tunnel in Wülfrath, which simulates a journey through 400 million years of Earth’s history. The Time Tunnel is open only during the summer season because it serves as a roost for bats in the winter.
Beyond the region, the Niederbergbahn Panorama Bike Trail is connected to other bike trails, such as the Ruhr Valley Bike Trail near Essen-Kettwig or the Korkenziehertrasse near Haan, and is part of the 300-kilometer-long supraregional network of Panorama Bike Trails.
A comprehensive brochure on the Niederbergbahn Panorama Bike Trail—featuring route descriptions, insider tips, and practical information—can be ordered via the website. The site also offers useful downloads related to the bike trail.
