Best attractions and places to see in Kreiswald include a variety of natural viewpoints, scenic meadows, and hiking trails. The region features landscapes often compared to "Switzerland," characterized by valleys, forests, and expansive views. Visitors can explore forest lakes and enjoy vistas stretching towards the Ruhr region. Kreiswald offers diverse natural settings for outdoor activities.
Last updated: July 15, 2026
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The idyllic Elfringhauser Schweiz is located in North Rhine-Westphalia, on the southern edge of the Ruhr area at the transition to the Bergisches Land, between Hattingen, Sprockhövel, Velbert and Wuppertal.
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The part of the Bergisch-Märkisch hilly landscape south of the Ruhr near Elfringhausen between Hattingen, Wuppertal, Sprockhövel and Velbert is known as Elfringhauser Schweiz. Two deep stream valleys, the Deilbachtal and the Felderbachtal, are framed by elevations that are sometimes 300 m high, and numerous brooks lead from the mountain slopes into the valleys. The area west of the Deilbach is part of the Bergisches Land, while the area east of it belongs to the Märkisch part of Westphalia. In addition to agriculture and forestry, the hilly country is primarily used as a recreational area. There are many hiking trails that go up and down. Sometimes you hike through forests, then you go through idyllic valleys, so everything is very varied.
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"The near-natural Felderbach 💦 meanders, lined with typical alder accompanying vegetation, through wet commercial grasslands and very species-rich wet grassland fallow land. Value The near-natural course of the Felderbach and its high water structure quality contribute to the high value of the area. However, the focus of the area is on the wet commercial grasslands and those that are particularly species-rich Wet grassland fallow land, some of which are in an excellent state of preservation. Development goals/biotope network As a linear biotope, the area functions as an important part of the network of the state-wide biotope network". https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Felderbachtal
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The Felderbachtal nature reserve is located in the area of the city of Hattingen in the Ennepe-Ruhr district in North Rhine-Westphalia. The nature reserve is located along the Felderbach in the Niederelfringhausen district of Hattingen, north of the Felderbachstrasse between Niederhuxelmann and Oberste Kleinbeck. Reference and link to full article: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Felderbachtal
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I always find paths through these gates adventurous and varied... unfortunately we just didn't see any animals
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So really, who does not like this view! Fantastic view of the Ruhr area at the level of the wind turbine above the Bergerhof.
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Felderbachtal in Elffringhauser Switzerland - simply a MUST!
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Autumnal "Elfringhauser Schweiz"
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Kreiswald is characterized by diverse natural settings, including valleys, forests, and expansive views. The region is often compared to "Switzerland" due to its scenic beauty, offering visitors a variety of natural viewpoints, meadows, and forest lakes.
Yes, Kreiswald is known for its impressive viewpoints. A popular spot is the View of Felderbachtal, which offers expansive vistas of a landscape often likened to "Switzerland." Another notable viewpoint is the View of the Ruhr region from Bergerhof, providing panoramic sights towards the Ruhr area.
Visitors appreciate the wonderful views and the opportunity for recreation in Kreiswald. For instance, the Elfringhauser Schweiz Meadow is loved for its open spaces in a valley setting, ideal for dogs and children to play. The scenic trails and the peaceful atmosphere of places like the Forest lake at Juttermannsberg are also highly valued for relaxation.
Yes, many areas in Kreiswald are family-friendly. The View of Felderbachtal and Elfringhauser Schweiz Meadow are both categorized as family-friendly. For specific hiking routes, you can explore options like the "View of Am Schnüber – Path Through the Chicken Gates loop" which is a moderate hike, or easier routes available in the Hiking in Kreiswald guide.
Kreiswald offers a variety of hiking routes. Popular options include the "View of Felderbachtal – View of the Ruhr Hills loop" and the "Deilbach stream in the Deilbachtal – View of the Deilbach valley loop." For more detailed information and additional routes, refer to the Hiking in Kreiswald guide.
Absolutely! Kreiswald provides excellent opportunities for cycling. You can find routes like the "View of Elfringhauser Schweiz – View from the Resting Bench loop" for touring bicycles or more challenging road cycling routes such as the "Isenberg Climb – Ruhr Valley Cycle Route loop." Discover more options in the Cycling in Kreiswald and Road Cycling Routes in Kreiswald guides.
The Elfringhauser Schweiz Meadow is a prime location for recreation in Kreiswald. It offers expansive open spaces in a valley setting, perfect for enjoying the outdoors and letting children or dogs roam freely.
Yes, Kreiswald features beautiful natural spots like the Forest lake at Juttermannsberg. This small forest lake is an ideal place to pause and relax, inviting visitors to linger by its tranquil waters.
A unique attraction in Kreiswald is the Path Through the Chicken Gates. This hiking trail passes through an area where chickens are allowed to roam freely in meadows, offering a distinctive and charming experience for hikers.
Yes, Kreiswald offers several dog-friendly areas. The Elfringhauser Schweiz Meadow, for example, is noted as a great place where dogs can romp freely. Many trails and natural areas are welcoming to dogs, making it a good destination for pet owners.
While specific seasonal recommendations are not provided, the description of Kreiswald's landscapes, including meadows, forests, and viewpoints, suggests it is ideal for outdoor activities during spring, summer, and autumn when the weather is pleasant for hiking and cycling. Winter might offer unique snowy landscapes, but some trails could be challenging.
The guide data does not specifically mention cafes directly on the trails. However, given the region's popularity for outdoor activities, it is likely that small eateries or cafes can be found in nearby villages or towns surrounding the Kreiswald area, especially in places like Elfringhauser Schweiz.


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