Tours around the Baldeneysee

The Baldeneysee in the south of Essen is a true paradise for water sports enthusiasts, hikers, Inline skaters, road cyclists, mountain bikers and in general cyclists. Nestled in the heart of the Ruhr region, it beckons with diverse routes, stunning views, and the perfect combination of water, forests, and hills. Whether it's a family outing, a training ride, or a sporting challenge – everyone will find their perfect tour here. Best of all: urban amenities like kiosks, beer gardens, and supermarkets are always just a short detour away. Let yourself be swept away on a journey of discovery that will have you hopping on your bike or lacing up your hiking boots in no time.

Thanks to the A52, B224, the roads in the Ruhr Valley, and the Ruhr Valley Cycle Path, the Baldeneysee is easily accessible from all over North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW). Several official parking areas are available around the lake. An overview can be found at Baldeneysee.Ruhr, the guide for the Baldeneysee. The S-Bahn (suburban train) stations Hügel and Kupferdreh, located just a few minutes from the shore, are also a convenient option. Those arriving by public transport can easily bring their bicycles and start their ride directly from the north or south shore, or from within the Ruhr Valley.

From easy hikes to moderately difficult tours and challenging treks, the Baldeneysee trail and the Ruhr Valley offer hiking terrain for all abilities. Narrow forest paths, gentle inclines, root-covered trails, and panoramic views – the numerous local hiking trails cover the entire spectrum of hiking terrain. Those planning a day trip can explore the entire Schellenberger Forest, for example. Steeper climbs, root-strewn paths, and varying surfaces are what make this trekking experience so appealing. After a hike on the Seaside Beach or Baldeney trails, a refreshing swim in the Baldeneysee reservoir on its northern shore is the perfect reward.

As a flat introductory course, the Lake round A loop that runs around the entire lake, mostly on well-maintained asphalt. With less than 100 meters of elevation gain, the route is ideal for building speed and improving technique. However, since pedestrians, children on balance bikes, skateboarders, elderly people with walkers, etc., also use this route, e-bike and pedelec riders, road cyclists, and time trialists should avoid the lake loop during busy periods, on weekends, and even during good weather, and instead use the roads around Baldeneysee. There are cafés along the way, for example in Kupferdreh, Werden, and... Essen-Kettwig for an espresso break.

The family-friendly flow trail (12 km) on the northern bank is a short flow trail with rollers, small tables, and gentle berms. Perfect for beginners and children experiencing their first mountain biking adventure. Several access points are easily reached by car or bike. The Kettwig Panorama Trail (25 km) is technically challenging. The trails on the Osterkopf near Essen-Kettwig offer singletrack with switchbacks, root sections, and steep descents. The view over the Ruhr River is spectacular. Plan plenty of time for photo stops and test your riding skills on the demanding ramps. The Elfringhauser Schweiz Diavolo (45 km) promises pure adrenaline. This challenging loop through the Bergisches Land region leads into the Elfringhauser Schweiz, the "Sierra Nevada" of the Ruhr area. Narrow paths, drops, and stair-like descents demand full concentration. A true highlight for experienced bikers, rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views.

Do you want to experience the water surface of the Baldeneysee from a new perspective? Stand-up paddling Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is perfect for this. After a beginner's course at one of the local SUP schools, you can even rent the equipment on site. Whether it's a leisurely 5 km paddle around the lake, a more relaxed 8 km tour, or a sunrise session (3 km) – SUP on the lake is ideal. Baldeneysee It is enjoying increasing popularity. Especially early in the morning, the water is often as smooth as glass – magical! But be careful: be sure to keep an eye on other "road users" and avoid the shipping lane of the White Fleet.

Whether gliding peacefully across the lake or drifting gently downstream on the Ruhr River – canoe tours combine enjoying nature with adventure. Beginners can take courses on site and familiarize themselves with this new activity. More experienced paddlers can combine whitewater sections near Heisingen with calm stretches of river. campsites The route is ideal for multi-day trips. The Werden weir can be crossed on foot. Coming from the lake, you can land at a long jetty to the right before the weir and carry your boat through.

With its mix of well-maintained asphalt paths, flat stretches, and stunning views, inline skating around the Baldeneysee trail and the Ruhr Valley is great fun – provided it's dry and not too crowded. From a short loop along the southern bank to the Ruhr Valley Marathon Challenge (Werden) to Hattingen and back, including a few short climbs, the trails offer something for everyone, thanks to their well-paved surfaces and clear signage.

Check the current opening hours of the Seaside Beach-Strandbad lakes and restaurants in advance. Be aware of the changing weather and pack layers – even in summer it can get windy at the lake, and you might want a light jacket to protect yourself from the sun. Charge your smartphone and use offline maps, as reception can be weak in the dense forest. Plan breaks at the most scenic viewpoints to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings of the Baldeneysee. Each of these suggested tours promises unforgettable experiences at the Baldeneysee. So, grab your SUP, canoe, kayak, hiking poles, inline skates, mountain bike, or road bike and experience the green heart of Essen from a whole new perspective. Have fun and enjoy your trip!