Cycling day trip from Herten to Essen

Set off from Herten, a cozy town in the heart of the Ruhr area that’s famous for its surprisingly grand moated Herten Castle. Your ride heads southwest towards Essen, a vibrant city that was once one of Germany’s industrial giants and now boasts impressive green spaces and a lively cultural scene.

The route is just under 30 km, making it perfect for a half-day adventure with friends or some solo time in the saddle. You’ll find yourself rolling along mostly paved surfaces, with just a sprinkle of gravel to keep things interesting—nothing your tires can't handle. The terrain is gently undulating, so expect a few small climbs (maxing out around 90 meters elevation), but nothing too tough.

A big perk: most of the way is on quiet paths and roads, so you’re never far from greenery or Ruhrpott history. Cruise through leafy stretches and catch glimpses of Ruhr's transformation from heavy industry to a region teeming with parks and art.

Finish up in Essen, maybe grab a coffee or check out the Zollverein Coal Mine—now a cool UNESCO site—before heading home. Happy pedaling!