4.5
(233)
2,291
runners
212
runs
Jogging around Naturschutzsee Füssenich offers routes through a unique landscape, centered around a recultivated former open-pit mine that is now a nature reserve. The area features wide field, hiking, and cycling paths that encircle the lake, often separated from the water by rows of trees. Smaller trails provide direct access to the water along the southern and eastern sides, with benches offering lake views on the northern side. This variety of paths makes the region suitable for shorter, relaxing jogs…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
4.4
(15)
97
runners
4.86km
00:30
20m
20m
Easy run. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(17)
90
runners
4.28km
00:27
20m
20m
Easy run. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4
runners
10.3km
01:04
60m
60m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
runners
9.97km
01:03
50m
50m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The Nephelsee is an open-cast mine residue lake that was formed around 1967 through the recultivation of the “Zülpich-Mitte” open-cast brown coal mine (formerly “Victor”, after the founder of the operating company, Viktor Rolff) in the area of the town of Zülpich. The plan was to create a bathing beach at the lake, just like at the Zülpich water sports lake, which was also created during this time through open-cast mining in the region. This plan could not be implemented because the sand embankments kept slipping. Therefore, apart from nature conservation, the only task today is to function as a flood retention basin for the Nephelfbach, which flows along the west of the lake and has an overflow structure into the lake. Source: Wikipedia
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The Weiertor was a double gate that was intended to make it much more difficult for the enemy to penetrate through the main gate. The gate was 80% destroyed in a bomb attack in 1944. It was not until 1974 that one of the outer towers was completely rebuilt. Source: https://www.eifel.de/go/gehenswerts-detail/weiertor_zuelpich.html
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The Weiertor is another entrance to Zülpich. It is only a proverbial stone's throw from the Bachtor.
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One of the beautifully restored Zülpicher city gates
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The western city gate to Düren, generally known as the “most beautiful of the Zülpich gates”, was also built as a double gate at the end of the 14th century. Most of it was destroyed in bombing raids. The actual main gate, a rectangular gate tower with a crenellated wreath similar to the Bachtor, no longer stands, only the left round front tower survived the war. The right tower was only rebuilt in 1974.
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There are over 180 running routes available around Naturschutzsee Füssenich, catering to various preferences and fitness levels. The komoot community has explored these trails over 2200 times.
The terrain primarily features wide field, hiking, and cycling paths that encircle the lake. These paths are generally well-maintained and offer an easy running experience with minimal elevation changes, making them suitable for all fitness levels. Some smaller trails lead directly to the water's edge.
Yes, Naturschutzsee Füssenich is ideal for easy and relaxing jogs. Many routes are classified as easy, such as the Neffel Lake loop from Zülpich, which is a 3.0-mile (4.9 km) trail. The area's well-maintained paths and gentle landscape are perfect for those new to running or looking for a less strenuous outing.
Absolutely. The majority of running routes around Naturschutzsee Füssenich are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. A popular option is the Neffel Lake loop from NSG Neffelbachaue, an easy 2.7-mile (4.3 km) path that offers scenic views of the nature reserve.
Yes, the easy and well-maintained paths around Naturschutzsee Füssenich make it a great destination for family-friendly jogs or walks. The serene natural setting provides a pleasant environment for all ages to enjoy outdoor activity together.
While specific regulations can vary, nature reserves often require dogs to be kept on a leash to protect local wildlife. It's generally advisable to keep your dog leashed on the trails around Naturschutzsee Füssenich to ensure a safe and respectful experience for everyone and the natural environment.
Parking options are typically available near popular access points to the lake. For example, if you're starting from Zülpich or NSG Neffelbachaue, you'll likely find designated parking areas nearby, making it convenient to access routes like the Bench at the Old Wayside Cross – Neffel Lake loop from NSG Neffelbachaue.
Access by public transport to Naturschutzsee Füssenich is possible, though it might require some planning. Check local bus schedules for connections to Füssenich or nearby Zülpich, from where you can typically reach the lake's access points on foot.
Naturschutzsee Füssenich offers a pleasant jogging experience throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery. Even in winter, the well-maintained paths are generally suitable for running, offering a peaceful, serene backdrop, though conditions may vary with snow or ice.
Yes, the routes offer several scenic spots. Along the northern side of the lake, you'll find benches that provide lovely views of the water. The nature reserve itself, with its expansive lake and surrounding greenery, creates a peaceful and picturesque environment for your run.
As a nature reserve, Naturschutzsee Füssenich is a significant habitat for various waterfowl and other wildlife. Joggers, especially those who run quietly, may have opportunities for birdwatching and observing the local fauna in their natural environment.
The running routes in Naturschutzsee Füssenich are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 160 reviews. Runners often praise the serene natural setting, the well-maintained paths, and the peaceful atmosphere perfect for a relaxing run.
While many routes are easy, there are also moderate options for those seeking a longer run. For example, the Landesburg Zülpich – Kölntor Gate loop from Füssenich is a moderate 6.2-mile (9.9 km) route, and the Running loop from Füssenich extends to 6.6 miles (10.6 km), offering more distance and varied paths.


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