By bicycle from Castrop-Rauxel to Herne

Ready for a breezy ride? This ~9 km route takes you from Castrop-Rauxel to Herne, two friendly towns in the Ruhr area known more for their welcoming vibes than bustling crowds. You’ll mostly cruise along quiet roads (over 80% of your journey!), so it’s a relaxing trip—perfect if you’re avoiding the stress of traffic.

Start off in Castrop-Rauxel, a former coalmining town turned “green city,” with plenty of parks and canals. Your way is almost entirely paved or asphalt, so no need for a mountain bike, and there’s just a gentle climb (around 35 meters up) before a slightly longer downhill into Herne.

Herne’s not huge, but you might spot its historic castle (“Schloss Strünkede”) or take a pit stop at a local café once you arrive. With a mostly flat profile and easygoing surfaces, this route is perfect for a daily commute, easy training ride, or weekend exploring. Just bring your sense of adventure—and maybe a GPS for the couple of short gravel sections!