Six walks by the water

We show you tours in Düsseldorf and the surrounding area that take you along bodies of water.

Are you one of those people who are always drawn to the water? There's something calming about the view of a flowing stream or a still, calm lake. We have put together six walks for you where you can unwind and let your gaze wander over the water.

The origin of the Düssel

It is not really possible to say exactly where the Düssel has its source, as it is formed from several springs. One of them is between Wülfrath and Neviges, as an inscription carved in stone states. The second stage of the Neanderlandsteig leads past here, starting in the Wülfrath district of Düssel, which is lined with half-timbered houses, and leading to the pilgrimage town of Neviges with its extraordinary cathedral made of exposed aggregate concrete. 

Vacation feeling at Unterbacher See

Once a mine for gravel and sand, the quarry pond between Düsseldorf and Hilden is now a paradise for sailing enthusiasts and nature lovers. The lake can be circumnavigated over a distance of approx. 6.5 km. If you want to spend even more time at the lake, use the campsite or one of the houseboats for a short break in the south of Düsseldorf.

Always the Rhine in view

Between Düsseldorf's old town and the northern district of Kaiserswerth, there are around twelve kilometers on level ground, which you can complete along the Rhine in around two and a half hours. No matter where you start, you can get back on the U79 subway if your feet don't feel up to it. In the north, be sure to visit the Kaiserpfalz castle ruins and the historic Kaiserswerth town center.  

Monheim Rhine bend nature experience

It protects and benefits: The Rhine dyke protects the Monheim urban area from flooding. In front of, behind and on top of it is a local recreation area that includes the A2 circular hiking trail, which runs for around five kilometers through the floodplain landscape. The nature discovery trail, which is also located in the Rhine bend, is just over half as long and explains the world of wild herbs, wetlands and bees at interactive stations. You will also find out why Monheim on the Rhine moved from the left to the right bank of the river. 

Idyllic lake in Langenfeld-Richrath

Behind the residential area on Karpfenweg, the view opens up onto the idyllic Heinenbusch See (also known as Baggersee Frisch), where a few boats from the Petri Heil fishing club bob around. The eastern shore has been designated a nature reserve and provides breeding and feeding grounds for endangered bird species. There is a two-kilometre walk around the lake. 

Lake Niers

Unfortunately, the Nierssee in Willich-Neersen is not suitable for swimming - it is too dangerous as it is artificially aerated, which can cause undercurrents. But it is a paradise for birds. Around 30 species have made it their home. You might spot a heron or a colorful kingfisher as you walk or cycle around the lake. Incidentally, it's not far from here to Neersen Castle, which borders a beautiful park in the English landscape style.  

Cover picture: Hans Blossey