Wasserburgen-Route
Aachen
Discover the charming landscape of the Eifel, the Jülich Börde and the Rhenish Bay with its numerous cultural treasures by bike! Nowhere else will you find so many moated castles in such a small area as in the city triangle of Aachen, Cologne and Bonn. The route takes you along approx. 380 km of almost ascent-free paths past over 120 castles and palaces - through the region with the most moated castles in Europe. The large number of moated castles and palaces is a reminder of the varied history of the region, which was characterized by many conflicts in the days of dukes and knights.
The route leads through a diverse landscape, along idyllic, natural stream and river valleys, through agricultural Bördeland landscapes and through beautiful low mountain regions. There are also various historic village centers along the route, numerous monasteries, mills and other cultural and historical highlights.
Another defining element is industry, such as the cloth-making industry, and the Rhenish lignite mining area with its open-cast mining viewpoints and recultivated areas. Witness a landscape in constant change on a cycle tour.
Route description
The tour runs mainly on well-maintained cycle paths, quiet country roads with few cars and farm tracks. Heavier traffic is only occasionally encountered in the towns or on short sections where there is no better route. The roads are mainly asphalted, but some also have a water-bound surface. Overall, the route is relatively flat over its 380 kilometers, although there are some steep climbs in places. Further information on the quality of the route and gradients can be found in the stage descriptions.
Marking of the tour: