© Dominik Ketz, Tourismus NRW e.V.
blue logo of the Rhine Cycle Route
© EuroVelo

Rhine Cycle Path

Nature and culture in a lively interplay

From the source of the Rhine in Switzerland to its mouth in Duisburg, the Rhine Cycle Route stretches over 1.230 km. The most varied 226 km lead through five stages NRWThe second stage between Cologne and Düsseldorf runs through Monheim am Rhein in neanderland. Here, varied forest, meadow and floodplain landscapes complement each other perfectly with impressive art and cultural experiences. Let yourself be enchanted by the species-rich meadows of the Urdenbacher Kämpe, immerse yourself in antiquity in the old Roman fort Haus Bürgel, or explore the old town of Monheim am Rhein. The easy-to-drive route is also ideal for families with children.

 

The 2nd stage

Route, tips and sights

  • Difficulty level: easy

  • Track length:

     51,2 km

  • driving time:

     about 3 h

  • Meters uphill: 98 m

  • Altitude downhill: -

  • Highest point: 54 m

Graphic of the Rhine Cycle Route by NRW Tourism including stage 2 and the region neanderland.
© Tourismus NRW e.V.

This is where you should stop

The second stage of the Rhine Cycle Route begins in Cologne's Old Town and leads via the Urdenbacher Kämpe and further along the Monheim Rhine bend to the picturesque old town of Monheim am Rhein. Via Neuss, you finally reach Düsseldorf, the sophisticated state capital. NRWs with its vibrant cultural scene.

The special appeal of this route lies in the perfect combination of art, culture and enchanting natural landscapes such as the Urdenbacher Kämpe. With it you can achieve that too neanderland. The natural, undeveloped floodplain landscape is fascinating thanks to its different water levels and an abundance of different animal and plant species. Traditional orchards alternate with swaying pastures, tranquil forests and idyllic oxbow lakes of the Rhine. 

In the middle lies the former Roman fort Haus Bürgel, which has been a World Heritage Site since 2021 with its original preserved part of the Lower Germanic Limes. The museum and the adjoining archaeological outdoor path provide a deep insight into 2.000 years of Roman history. But Bürgel is not only a must for those interested in history. Animal and nature lovers will also get their money's worth with the Biological Station and the cold blood horse breeding. 

Along the Monheimer Rheinbogen your path leads you further into the picturesque Old town of Monheim. After a relaxing break in one of the numerous cozy cafés, restaurants or beer gardens, it is worth visiting the nature discovery trail in the Rheinbogen Landscape Park. 11 interactive stations bring you closer to the flora and fauna of the dike foreland in an instructive and descriptive way. There is a lot to discover, from wild bees to wet biotopes and meadow orchards to highland cattle. Made for families with children. By the way, you will also find a picnic basket and Kettcar rentalThe 320 square meter water playground promises refreshing cooling with everything that makes the splashy fun perfect. 

If you are already in neanderland you can take a detour to Neanderthal Museum in Mettmann. The museum, one of the most modern in Europe, tells the story of humanity from its beginnings more than four million years ago to the present day. And, of course, that of the Neanderthals.

Impressions

What else would you like?

Route cycling

© BSW - Patrick Gawandtka

family outings

© Dominik Ketz, Kreis Mettmann

Culturally on the go

© Stadt Monheim am Rhein

neanderland hike