The starting point chosen in this route description is Waldfeucht (Alter Klauser Kirchweg – swimming pool - 52525 Waldfeucht-Haaren).
From the Infopoint Waldfeucht, it goes to KP 33 via the renaturation area of the Kitschbach to KP 50 in Obspringen. Cycling through the valley of the Kitschbach, you pass through Schöndorf and then to Braunsrath to KP 49. KP 12 is located in the open field in front of Heinsberg. You reach the town if you follow the signs to KP 20.
The next destination is KP 11 and then, past Lago Laprello (where the Infopoint Heinsberg is located: Boathouse at Lago Laprello, Fritz-Bauer-Straße, 52525 Heinsberg), you reach KP 13 and at KP 23 the Rur river. Along the river, you reach KP 15, which leads you to KP 14 in Karken. From here, you ride to KP 35 in Haaren. Cycling towards KP 33, you reach the Infopoint Waldfeucht again after a short time.
Sights on the route:
Cycling from the Infopoint Waldfeucht (Alter Klauser Kirchweg – swimming pool -, 52525 Waldfeucht-Haaren) to KP 33. KP 50 is located in Obspringen. Passing through the Kitschbach valley and crossing Schöndorf, you reach KP 49. On the outskirts of Braunsrath lies the Maria Lind Monastery. In the 17th century, a 15 cm tall statue of the Virgin Mary with child was found here, and soon this place became a destination for many pilgrims. In 1982, the Capuchins left the monastery, which they had inhabited for many years, due to a lack of successors. In 1985, the Poor Clares followed. A monastery church was added to the pilgrimage chapel and the Capuchin monastery was remodeled.
From KP 12 in the open fields before Heinsberg, you have a wide view over the Rur valley and the opposite ridge. Slightly beyond KP 20 is the BEGAS HOUSE - Museum for Art and Regional History Heinsberg. Take a break here and look at the museum with a collection of artworks by the painter dynasty of the Begas family (www.begas-haus.de) or visit the Burgberg with the Selfkant Cathedral, castle ruins, and casemates.
At the bus station in Heinsberg lies KP 11, which you can quickly reach by cycling through the city center – or you can take a break in the local gastronomy.
Continue to KP 13 in Karken, past Lago Laprello (where the Infopoint Heinsberg is located: Boathouse at Lago Laprello, Fritz-Bauer-Straße, 52525 Heinsberg). The lake with its sandy beach and marked bathing area offers a nice possibility to cool off on warm days. However, no lifeguard is present and swimming is at your own risk. Paddle boats for a tour on the water are available for rent at the boathouse on Fritz-Bauer-Straße. A café with a winter garden and outdoor terrace ensures culinary well-being. From there, you have a beautiful view of the lake landscape. A wide circular path along the water is popular with cyclists and hikers.
At KP 23, you reach the Rur. Along the river, you come to KP 15, which leads you to KP 14 in Karken. In the middle of Karken, known for its large strawberry fields, at Roermonder Straße stands KP 14, which leads you to KP 35. Shortly before, you pass the St.-Jans-Klus, which has been used as a pilgrimage site since 1328, but probably already existed in the 8th century. Until the completion of a new church in the center of Haaren in 1824, it served as a parish church for many years. Today, there is a four-winged brick farm with a small wayside chapel at one corner of the farm. Inside the building is a restaurant & bistro.
Cycling towards KP 33, you reach your starting point at the Infopoint at the swimming pool in Waldfeucht-Haaren after a short time.
To participate in the cycling experience day raffle, you need a smartphone that can scan QR codes. This involves questions that can only be solved and entered at the starting points. It is also possible to upload and post photos related to this. Registration is voluntary; you can cycle along without it. The former central tombola has been replaced by an online raffle. Three high-quality prizes are waiting. Starter cards are no longer available.
Furthermore, you are well equipped for the route with weather-appropriate clothing, sufficient water, and some provisions.
