20 Years of the Ruhr Valley Cycle Route – Happy Birthday!

Essen, Baldeneysee, January 29, 2026. The Ruhr Valley Cycle Route The Rhine Cycle Route will turn twenty in 2026 – an anniversary celebrated not only by cycling enthusiasts, but also by tourism professionals and cycling tour operators. Since its opening in 2006, the 240-kilometer-long long-distance cycle route from the source of the Ruhr River near Winterberg to the Rhine Orange sculpture in Duisburg has become one of the country's most important tourist attractions. No other river cycle route combines industrial heritage, natural beauty, and urban diversity in such a compact area.

Since its opening, the Ruhr Valley Cycle Route has set standards. As early as 2009, it received a four-star certification from the ADFC (General German Bicycle Club) – a mark of quality that has remained valid to this day. The route is considered a best-practice example nationwide for successful cycle tourism management. Among the success factors is certainly the range of services offered along the route: from signage and services to cyclist-friendly accommodations. The Ruhr Valley Cycle Route has participated in several pilot projects, such as "Bed+Bike" and tap water quality, demonstrating its innovative spirit. As a founding member of "Germany's Top River Routes," the cycle route has gained nationwide recognition. Hundreds of thousands of cyclists use it every year. cyclists The route is an important economic factor for cities and municipalities along the Ruhr.

In this anniversary year, those in charge not only want to celebrate, but also set the course for the future. RTG Managing Director Axel Biermann and Dr. Jürgen Fischbach from Sauerland Tourism announced new projects and developments. These include optimizing the route – particularly in the Duisburg area, where long-term closures necessitate alternative routes. The Ruhr Valley Cycle Route is to become even better known as a sustainable, experience-oriented travel destination. Stronger integration with regional cultural and natural attractions aims to attract visitors for longer stays. Finally, digital services are intended to improve navigation, planning, and the overall experience.

The Ruhr Valley Cycle Route is much more than just a cycle path – it's a connecting element between regions, cities, and landscapes. It leads through the Hochsauerland region, past reservoirs like the... Baldeneysee, historic old towns such as the Werden of the old town and the old town Kettwig, industrial monuments and urban centers. In this way, it reflects the diversity of the Ruhr Valley and makes a significant contribution to the region's tourism profile.