Top Destinations for a Memorable Holiday Getaway
North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany's most populous state, is a treasure trove of unique attractions and breathtaking hiking trails. From the historic to the modern, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
For cyclists of all fitness levels, the Vennbahn Cycling Route is a must-do. This 125-kilometer trail follows old railway lines and passes through nature, offering a scenic and well-signposted journey. The first stage covers about 22 kilometers and leads to Raeren.
History buffs will be captivated by the LVR-Freilichtmuseum in Lindlar, showcasing historical buildings and offering craft demonstrations, or Cranger Krimes in Herne, attracting around 4 million visitors each year. For a glimpse into Germany's agricultural and craft history, the Niederrheinisches Freilichtmuseum in Grefrath and Freilichtmuseum Hagen are worth a visit.
Nature lovers will find solace in the Nationalpark Eifel, the only national park in NRW, located around the Rurstausee, the largest reservoir in NRW. The park offers hiking trails suitable for families with strollers and dogs, such as the "Wilde Weg" in Schleiden.
Animal enthusiasts can spend a day at Zoo Wuppertal, home to over 4200 animals and around 470 species from all over the world, or Straußenfarm Wermelskirchen, where ostriches roam free. For a more interactive experience, Metabolon in the Bergisches Land offers exhibits, a Miscanthus maze, trampolines, and an 110-meter-long slide.
Architecture enthusiasts will be impressed by the Aachen Cathedral, the first UNESCO World Heritage site in Germany, or the Sparrenburg in Bielefeld, a castle with a tower that can be reached by climbing 120 steps.
For those seeking adventure, Waterski Langenfeld offers lessons in waterskiing, wakeboarding, or surfing on a stationary wave, or Alma Park in Gelsenkirchen offers a Trampoline Park, Blacklight Mini Golf, Arrowtag, Laser Tag, and Paintball.
Hikers can enjoy the Three-Country Point's nature trails and observation towers, extensive multi-day hiking routes starting from Aachen through the Eifelsteig trail, and additional loops in surrounding nature parks like Brackvenn. The Vennbahn route offers a parallel cycling and hiking experience, while Aachen’s urban environment offers cultural walking tours around its historic cathedral.
The region also boasts numerous leisure spots, such as the Rursee, a leisure paradise for sailors, canoeists, stand-up paddlers, swimmers, anglers, and hikers, or Tuttenbrocksee, offering Caribbean flair, beach volleyball, waterskiing, and good vibes during the main season.
Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or adventure seeker, North Rhine-Westphalia has something to offer for everyone. So pack your bags and explore the hidden gems of this beautiful state!
Embarking on the Vennbahn Cycling Route provides a captivating travel experience that seamlessly blends nature and lifestyle, encompassing 125 kilometers of scenic trails.
History enthusiasts will find the LVR-Freilichtmuseum in Lindlar an intriguing lifestyle destination, displaying historical buildings and hosting craft demonstrations.
