URBAN HIKE IN WITTEN: HIKING TOUR THROUGH THE MUTTENTAL AND THE WIESENVIERTEL
Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Ruhr Area? Join me on an exciting 15-kilometer hiking tour through the city of Witten, where history, nature, and art come together to create a unique experience that will not only make your outdoor enthusiast's heart beat faster but also provide numerous photo opportunities.
STARTING POINT: PARKING LOT NACHTIGALLSTRAßE
I begin my tour at the large parking lot on Nachtigallstraße, as I arrived by car. You can park your car at various locations or start your hike at Witten's train station, a central starting point for our tour.
SHONA ART: A SHORT STOP IN AFRICA
My first stop takes me to the Shona Art exhibition, where artworks from Zimbabwe shine in all their glory. The stone sculptures are not only fascinating pieces of art but also offer impressive photography subjects. Play with light and shadow to capture unique images while exploring the stories behind the artworks.
MUTTENTAL: NATURE AND HISTORY IN HARMONY
The next leg of the journey leads me to Muttental, a historic place in the heart of the Ruhr Area. Here, you can immerse yourself in the history of mining and explore traces of the past. The old tunnels and buildings offer numerous photo opportunities to capture the connection between nature and history.
HARDENSTEIN CASTLE RUINS: WITNESS TO PAST GRANDEUR
The path then takes me to the impressive ruins of Hardenstein Castle. The remains of this medieval castle are not only an architectural marvel but also a popular destination for photographers. The view from here over the Ruhr is simply breathtaking.
LWL-MUSEUM ZECHE NACHTIGALL
Continuing our journey after visiting the impressive ruins of Hardenstein Castle, the LWL-Museum Zeche Nachtigall is our next stop. Located just a short distance from the castle, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the industrial heritage of the region. As you wander through the well-preserved buildings and mining facilities, you'll gain a deep understanding of the coal mining history that once defined this area. The museum's exhibitions and interactive displays provide valuable insights into the lives of miners and the technological advancements that shaped the coal industry. It's not only an educational experience but also a fantastic place to capture the atmosphere of a bygone era with your camera. Don't miss the chance to delve into the industrial history of Witten at this remarkable museum.
AFTER THE RAINS COMES THE SUN
As I strolled along the picturesque Ruhr in Witten during my hike, I was treated to a special natural spectacle. After a brief rain shower, the sun broke through the clouds, and a breathtaking rainbow arched over the river. This added a touch of enchantment to my journey, and the mirror-like surface of the Ruhr magically reflected the colors of the rainbow.
WIESENVIERTEL IN WITTEN: URBAN FLAIR
After exploring the region's history, we re-enter modern life by visiting the Wiesenviertel in Witten. Here, you'll find cafes, restaurants, and shops in a trendy environment. Various murals can be discovered along the way. Enjoy a break and refresh yourself before we head to the last stop on our tour.
BERGER MONUMENT: AN EXTRAORDINARY OBSERVATION TOWER
The final photo spot of the tour is the 21-meter-high Berger Monument, an impressive observation tower in Witten. The tower is located north of the Ruhr on the foothills of the Ardey Mountains and is part of the Hohenstein recreational area, which is situated two kilometers southeast of the Wittener city center. This tower not only offers spectacular views of the surroundings but also a fantastic opportunity for breathtaking photographs. Experiment with different perspectives to capture the beauty of this observation tower and its surroundings.
A hike through Witten in the Ruhr Area offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and urban life. This tour is not just an outdoor adventure but also a journey through the facets of the Ruhr Area waiting to be discovered. Grab your camera, put on your hiking boots, and dive into the diversity of Witten. Your urban adventure awaits!