Half-timbered houses, forests, hiking

One of many hikes around Rösrath. As soon as I leave the station, I can feel the fresh, clear air, which immediately puts me in the mood for an outdoor adventure. Eight kilometres, off we go.

I take a short bus ride to the official starting point at "Haus Lehmbach”, pleased at the sight of the small village centre. Timber-framed houses typical of the Bergisches Land are lined up next to each other, their lovingly restored facades exuding a homely atmosphere. 

I’ve arrived at the starting point. Off we go. First we climb up a steep road that leads directly into the forest. Here I delve into an impressive landscape of rolling hills alternating with dense forests. The paths are narrow and seem enchanted in places, and the trees provide pleasant shade. It is quiet, only the chirping of the birds and the rustling of the leaves can be heard. One moment I'm walking through dense sections of forest, the next the view opens up onto wide meadows and fields.

The way back, accompanied by the gentle babbling of the Sülz, leads me through open meadows and shady woods back to the starting point. It is a path full of small discoveries and great serenity – the perfect end to a day in nature.

After a few kilometres, I finally get back to Rösrath. This time the bus takes me back to the station through the charming village centre, and I think to myself: This hike is a perfect mix of nature, culture and relaxation – a real insider tip.

After leaving Rösrath behind me, I take the train to Overath. The train journey is a nature experience in itself: The train winds its way through the Bergisches Land, past dense forests, open fields and rolling hills. The windows offer a fantastic view of the green landscape, which glows in the sun. Small villages with their typical timber-framed houses keep popping up between the trees, and I feel as if I am passing into another world – away from the hustle and bustle of the city and into peaceful, harmonious nature.

Next morning. Well fortified, I make my way back to the railway station where my hike starts. The route first takes me through Overath, which impresses with its cosy, traditional houses. I particularly notice how harmoniously the modern and historic buildings complement each other. Small cafés and lovingly designed gardens line the streets, and it is worth pausing for a moment to soak up the atmosphere of the place.

After a while, I leave the town centre and begin the gentle ascent into the hilly surroundings of Overath, which are known for their sweeping views. The gradient is gentle but steady, and the higher I get, the more the landscape opens up before me. Halfway up, I take a break at a strategically placed bench. From here I have the first magnificent view over the Agger valley. The fields and forests spread out before me like a carpet, and in the distance the Agger glistens in the sun.

A particular highlight on the route is the pilgrimage church in Marialinden, which perches at the highest point of the route. From here, you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire Bergisches Land region. It is the perfect place to pause for a moment and enjoy the vastness.