Oberbergischer Kreis: Reservoirs, Trails and Crafts
Accommodation in Oberbergischer Kreis
Oberbergischer Kreis offers a range of themes to help you plan your trip: swimming spots at reservoirs, hiking trails with panoramic views or the sounds of nature, cycling routes with distinctive features, and demonstrations of traditional craft techniques. These themes give you a concrete basis for deciding what you would like to do during your stay. If you are looking for a hotel in the district, you can first plan your trip around the focus that matters most to you. The destinations below differ in their activities and in the type of guidance and information they offer.
A district notice dated May 19, 2026, lists a total of 13 official swimming spots at the Aggertalsperre, Bevertalsperre, Bruchertalsperre and Lingesetalsperre reservoirs. It states that water quality meets the requirements of the EU Bathing Water Directive and is regularly monitored throughout the season. Before your visit, check the latest seasonal information.
Hiking between panoramic views and the sounds of nature
The Höhenroute takes its name from the beautiful scenery and unique views along the ridges. It starts at the Nümbrecht Kurpark hiking car park and is signposted throughout; GPS navigation via Outdooractive is also available. This gives you both a named starting point and two ways to find your way. As route information can change, check the signs and navigation before setting out.
Five Bergisches Land hiking maps show the complete current network of hiking trails in Rheinisch-Bergischer Kreis and Oberbergischer Kreis and help hikers plan their routes. If you would like to use a map to prepare, check the edition before buying it. The maps provide an overview of the trail network; by contrast, the information about the Höhenroute specifies a particular starting point and navigation options.
A different experience awaits you on the Klangpfad in Homburger Ländchen, where you can enjoy peaceful quiet and the sounds of nature. The municipality of Nümbrecht developed the original Klangpfad in collaboration with Biologische Station Oberberg. When choosing between these hiking experiences, the views from the ridges along the Höhenroute contrast with the quiet and nature sounds of the Klangpfad.
Cycling: former railway lines or reservoirs
The cycling routes can also be distinguished by their described features. The Wasserquintett starts and ends at Marienheide station. Many sections follow disused railway lines and have gentle gradients; the route is suitable for e-bikes and touring bikes. Before setting off, check the latest route conditions and signage, as these can change.
The Talsperrenroute passes four reservoirs. Three audio contributions provide information about the flora, fauna and animal habitats around the reservoirs. The route runs through the region around Marienheide, WipperfĂĽrth and HĂĽckeswagen. Its focus is therefore on nature along the route, while the Wasserquintett is characterized by its start and finish, sections along former railway lines and gentle gradients. These differences can help you choose a cycling route.
For the cycling network, Rheinisch-Bergischer Kreis and Oberbergischer Kreis have established a quality management system together with Naturpark Bergisches Land. Alongside this regional approach, check the information for the individual route before your ride, especially if you are relying on signage or route conditions.
Crafts at the open-air museum
At the LVR open-air museum in Lindlar, craftspeople demonstrate traditional craft techniques on a changing daily schedule. If you would like to include a cultural destination in your trip planning as well as hiking and cycling, you will find a distinct theme here.
Discover more destinations: WipperfĂĽrth, NĂĽmbrecht, Marienheide, Lindlar, Gummersbach, Wiehl, Radevormwald, Engelskirchen, Bergneustadt, Reichshof, Morsbach, HĂĽckeswagen.
Go to the main travel overview: North Rhine-Westphalia.
