By bicycle from Leichlingen to Solingen

This ride takes you from the charming small town of Leichlingen, known as the “Blütenstadt” for its beautiful fruit blossoms, up to Solingen, famous worldwide for its blade-making heritage. The 19.5-kilometer journey rolls mostly over paved and quiet roads, with just a little bit of gravel thrown in (don’t worry, it’s only about 1%).

Expect to pedal gradually uphill for much of the way, banking a solid 263 meters of elevation—it’s noticeable, but nothing most regular cyclists can’t handle with a few gears to spare. Most of your ride keeps you out of heavy traffic, making it pretty relaxing and safe, especially where it winds through scenic, village-y stretches and peaceful paths.

Once you reach Solingen, you’ll find yourself in the heart of Germany’s “City of Blades.” If you have time, check out the old town or the famous Müngsten Bridge, Germany’s highest railway bridge. All in all, this is a great route for anyone looking to soak up a quiet Rhineland cycling vibe with a bit of a workout thrown in!