À vélo de Gelsenkirchen à Herten

If you’re looking for an easygoing ride in the northern Ruhr area, this route from Gelsenkirchen to Herten is a great pick. It’s about 18 km long, mostly rolling on quiet paths (73%) with a good amount of asphalt under your wheels, though you’ll bump over a few gravel and paving stone sections along the way—nothing a hybrid or trekking bike can’t handle.

Starting in Gelsenkirchen, a city known for its industrial roots and as home to football legends Schalke 04, you’ll cruise north, slowly gaining just over 70 meters in elevation. Much of the path is paved, threading through former coal mining landscapes that are now lush green spaces—a real Ruhrgebiet transformation!

End your ride in Herten, a cozy town famous for the striking Schloss Herten, a moated red-brick castle surrounded by parkland. It’s a peaceful spot that feels worlds away from the city bustle you started in. Altogether a relaxed trip with only gentle hills, ideal for a half-day cycling adventure.