Ideal Sunny Outing at Harkortsee: Top Excursion Suggestions
Nestled between the picturesque cities of Wetter, Herdecke, and Hagen lies the enchanting Harkortsee, a serene lake that offers a myriad of activities for visitors of all ages. The Burgruine Wetter, a castle ruin, stands proudly nearby, offering a stunning view of the lake.
For those seeking a tranquil boat ride, the MS Harkort ship provides a round trip experience, with prices at €9.50 for adults and €5.00 for children. However, please note that the MS Harkort ship does not accept credit card payments.
A leisurely stroll through the narrow streets of Freiheit in Alt-Wetter is always worthwhile, providing a glimpse into the area's rich history and charm. The Harkortsee, unfortunately, cannot be fully enjoyed on the Hagen side due to the lack of a continuous path along the shore.
For the more adventurous, the Harkortsee offers various family activities, including canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), mini-golf, boat trips, and more. A new SUP vending machine has been installed at the Naturfreibad Wetter, allowing for online booking and contactless pick-up of stand-up paddleboards. Renting a SUP board for an hour costs €14.99 at the vending machine, with additional fees for multiple hours. Insurance is available for an extra €2.
The Naturfreibad Wetter, a swimming pool located next to the Harkortsee, offers a cooling option during hot days. Its opening hours vary during holidays and non-holidays. Entrance fees are €5.00 for adults and €3.00 for children (aged 4-11 years), with children under 5 years entering for free.
Klutes Mini-golf Oasis offers mini-golf, stand-up paddleboard rentals, and a unique Pit-Pat game on the Harkortsee. The entrance prices for the mini-golf course are €2.50 for children (aged 4-11 years), €3.50 for children from 12 years and adults. A cash deposit of €50.00 is required for renting a SUP board at Klutes Mini-golf Oasis.
The Ruhrtalradweg, a popular route for cyclists and walkers, runs directly along the Harkortsee, offering a scenic view of the lake and proximity to cafes and restaurants. The route also boasts the impressive Ruhr Viaduct, a 313-meter-long and 30-meter-high train structure.
Construction work on Burgstraße around the ruin has been completed, but renovation work on the Burgruine itself will continue until beyond 2025. For further information on the MS Harkort ship and Klutes Mini-golf Oasis, please visit their respective websites.
[1] Walking distance for a full circuit around Harkortsee is approximately 10 kilometers, taking around 2 to 2.5 hours for an average walker, depending on pace and stops. Paddling times would vary widely based on the type of craft and conditions, but since the lake is a reservoir with protected shore areas, paddling circuits might require careful planning and local guidance.
[2] Direct information on paddling times was not explicitly mentioned in the sources provided; the walking distance is the most concrete detail available.
- For individuals keen on outdoor-living and home-and-garden enthusiasts, a visit to Freiheit in Alt-Wetter offers a chance to stroll through narrow streets with a glimpse of the area's history and charm.
- At Klutes Mini-golf Oasis, one can enjoy a game of mini-golf, rent stand-up paddleboards, or play a unique Pit-Pat game, all alongside the serene Harkortsee.
