Trade routes - experiencing horizons

Trade has always been the origin of many settlements and present-day cities. Important trade routes used to crisscross Europe. The Hellweg was one of these central trade routes. It connected the cities of today's Ruhr area early on, and even today one often reads the street name that reminds of this important history.

The starting point
This circular route starts at the train station in Unna, which is conveniently connected to the regional rail network. Paid parking spaces near the center can usually be found even by car.

Start of the tour
From the train station in Unna, the tour initially heads east along the former Hellweg. At junction 35, the route turns south.

The Haarstrang
The route leads over the Haarstrang, a small mountain range north of the Ruhr. It involves climbing some altitude, but one is rewarded with beautiful views. The horizon is vast, and under good weather conditions, views extend far into the Sauerland region. A descent finally leads down to the Ruhr Valley in Wickede.

The Ruhr Valley Cycle Path
The Ruhr River was an important river early on, serving as a central trade route. Horses pulled the cargo boats upstream on the Ruhr. Today, the popular Ruhr Valley Cycle Path often follows these former towpaths or "Leinpfade" directly along the water.
The route continues via the Ruhr Valley Cycle Path to Fröndenberg / Ruhr. It is worth visiting the Chain Forge Museum on weekends (please check opening hours!). The route then continues through fields and past farms.

The ascent to Opherdicke
From junction 37, the route climbs steeply up to the Ardey Mountains again. The ascent to Opherdicke is exhausting, but an e-bike makes the tour much more relaxed. The Opherdicke House is a beautiful moated castle, first mentioned in 1176. In addition to exhibition and gallery spaces, chamber concerts also ensure the appropriate cultural use of the historical buildings.

Back to the starting point
Through a beautiful natural landscape, the route leads back to Unna. It is especially worth visiting the "Center for International Light Art" in the former Linden Brewery. Light artists from around the world have embellished the cellar vaults of the former brewery with extraordinary light installations. The beautiful old town offers numerous restaurants and cafes. Every two years, the event "Un(n)a Festa Italiana" is one of the city's highlights.