Attractions and Places To See around Kreis Unna - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Kreis Unna blend industrial heritage, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. Situated at the eastern edge of the Ruhr area, the region features historical landmarks, serene natural features, and vibrant cultural sites. Visitors can explore a diverse landscape shaped by rivers, lakes, and extensive trail networks. This area offers a variety of points of interest for day trips and longer stays.
Best attractions and places to see around Kreis Unna
- The most popular attractions is "Now" sculpture on the Seseke, a man-made monument that serves as a photo motif along the Seseke. This gabion wall with the lettering "Jetzt" offers a place for a break on the Seseke Cycle Path.
- Another must-see spot is Ternscher Lake, a lake with a beach and facilities. Visitors can cycle around the lake and use the beach for swimming during summer.
- Visitors also love Ruhr Meadows near Schwerte, a cycle way with views of the Ruhr. This section of the RuhrtalRadweg is well-developed and features information boards about flora, fauna, and water.
- Kreis Unna is known for its historical landmarks, natural features, and extensive cycling and hiking trails. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from industrial heritage sites to nature reserves.
- The attractions around Kreis Unna are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 3750 upvotes and over 1720 photos shared.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Horstmarer Lake Beach
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Prussia Port
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Ruhr Meadows near Schwerte
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"Now" sculpture on the Seseke
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Rünthe Marina
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Canoe slalom course
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Seseke Cycle Path
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Ternscher Lake
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Lippeaue Nature Reserve (Stockum to Werne)
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View of the Ruhr
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Popular around Kreis Unna
Germany's Westphalian City Tour — linking historic town centres
Römer‑Lippe Route – Water and history – 6 days
The Emscher-Weg – Between nature and industrial heritage
Römer‑Lippe Route – Water & history, 6 days
Westphalian Way of St. James – 9 days
Historic Town Centres cycling route
Hike through history in Germany’s Ruhr area – WestfalenWanderWeg
Hiking from castle to castle in Münsterland
Trail running south of Dortmund – around the Hohensyburg
Alpine training for road cyclists in Germany’s Ruhr region
Other adventures around Kreis Unna
Tips from the Community
also a beautiful section of the Ruhtal cycle path
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This section of the route is a well-paved footpath and cycle path with a view of the species-rich Lippe and Lippeauen nature reserve. With a bit of luck, you might even see a kingfisher.
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The Kanu- und Surf-Verein Schwerte e.V., founded in 1933, is an important sports club in Schwerte that specializes in canoeing. It offers various disciplines such as canoe racing, canoe slalom and canoe hiking. The club has produced several successful athletes throughout its history, including medalists at the Olympic Games and World Championships. Detlef Lewe, one of the club's most successful athletes, won a world championship and a silver medal at the 1968 Olympic Games. The club has a boathouse and a canoe slalom course on the Ruhr. The history of the club is characterized by commitment and determination, especially in the post-war years, when the members took the reconstruction of the boathouse and the resumption of sports into their own hands. Over the years, the club has intensified its youth work and purchased numerous new boats and facilities to meet the needs of its growing membership. The Schwerte Canoe and Surf Club regularly organizes events and competitions, including the Schwerte Ruhr Slalom, and is active in promoting canoeing in the region. The club also has a lively community activity, with various events and initiatives to promote sport and the community.
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As can be seen on the sign, the canoeists here are "Headless". 😉 As a cyclist, you should indeed be careful here, as the canoeists have to cross the path.
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At the Ruhrmühlengraben you will be informed about the water cycle on umpteen information boards. The cycle path itself leads straight ahead and is top asphalted.
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The view from the Ruhr Bridge in front of Gedeck is beautiful. If you come from Winterberg, the landscape has changed significantly, only individual mountain ranges south of the cycle path are visible and the Ruhr is now much wider.
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This part of the Ruhrtalradweg leads along the Ruhfeldgraben. Information boards provide information about nature around the Ruhr section. A small hut with a small bicycle station (air pump, tools) invites you to take a little break.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore in Kreis Unna?
Kreis Unna offers a variety of natural attractions. You can visit Horstmarer Lake Beach, which is part of the larger Seepark Lünen, or enjoy Ternscher Lake, both popular for swimming and cycling. The Lippeaue Nature Reserve from Stockum to Werne provides well-paved paths for observing diverse flora and fauna, including kingfishers. Additionally, the Ruhrauen near Schwerte offer beautiful views of the Ruhr river.
Where can I learn about the region's industrial heritage?
Kreis Unna has a rich industrial past. You can explore the Preussen Harbor, Lünen and the Mohr Crane, a symbol of the region's industrial history. Other significant sites include the Förderturm Bönen, a prominent headframe, and the Rohrmeisterei Schwerte, a former waterworks now a cultural center. The Halde Großes Holz in Bergkamen, a redesigned colliery heap, features the 'Lichtimpuls' art installation, commemorating mining history.
Are there good cycling paths for families or casual riders?
Yes, Kreis Unna is excellent for cycling. The Seseke Cycle Path is highly recommended for all ages, offering many picnic spots along the river. The Ruhr Meadows near Schwerte provide a well-developed section of the RuhrtalRadweg with information boards about local nature. The region also features trails along the Ruhr, Lippe, and Emscher rivers, connecting charming villages.
What historical sites or museums can I visit in Kreis Unna?
The region boasts several historical and cultural sites. Visit Museum Schloss Cappenberg, a baroque castle with art exhibitions and impressive views. Museum Haus Opherdicke is a striking moated castle now hosting exhibitions. The Hellweg-Museum Unna displays the town's history, including 'Unna's Gold Treasure.' For art enthusiasts, the Zentrum für Internationale Lichtkunst in Unna is the world's first museum dedicated to light art.
What kind of water sports or activities are available?
For water-based activities, Marina Rünthe on the Datteln-Hamm Canal is a modern sport boat center. You can also find the Canoe slalom course in Schwerte for water sports enthusiasts. Ternscher Lake and Horstmarer Lake Beach offer opportunities for swimming and relaxing by the water.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Kreis Unna?
Absolutely! Many attractions are suitable for families. The Horstmarer Lake Beach and Ternscher Lake are great for swimming and outdoor fun. The Seseke Cycle Path is ideal for family bike rides, with plenty of spots for picnics. The Halde Großes Holz in Bergkamen offers open spaces and an illuminated art installation that can be enjoyed by all ages.
Where can I go hiking in Kreis Unna?
Kreis Unna offers numerous hiking opportunities. You can find various trails, including routes like the 'Lippe Floodplains Near Lünen' or 'Elsebachtal Nature Reserve' loops. The 216-kilometer WestfalenWanderWeg also passes through the district. For more detailed routes and options, you can explore the Hiking around Kreis Unna guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Kreis Unna?
Visitors particularly appreciate the scenic beauty and well-maintained paths. For instance, the Ruhr Meadows near Schwerte are praised for being a 'very nice section of the RuhrtalRadweg' with informative boards. The Seseke Cycle Path is described as a 'great bike path along the Seseke' suitable for all ages. The 'Now' sculpture on the Seseke is a popular photo motif and a nice spot for a break.
Are there any unique art installations to see?
Yes, Kreis Unna is home to some distinctive art. The "Now" sculpture on the Seseke is a popular gabion wall with the lettering "Jetzt," serving as a photo motif and resting spot. The Halde Großes Holz in Bergkamen features the 'Lichtimpuls' art installation, which lights up until 1 AM. Additionally, the Zentrum für Internationale Lichtkunst in Unna is a unique museum dedicated exclusively to light art.
What are the best places for scenic views in Kreis Unna?
For panoramic views, you can visit the Adener Höhe, the most prominent mountain in Kreis Unna, offering expansive vistas over Münsterland, Sauerland, and the Ruhr areas. The Preußenhalde in Seepark Lünen also provides a beautiful view over the Seepark and the Datteln-Hamm Canal. From Museum Schloss Cappenberg, you can enjoy impressive views across Kreis Unna and as far as Dortmund.
Can I find places to eat or drink near the main attractions?
Yes, several attractions have nearby facilities. Horstmarer Lake Beach and Ternscher Lake both have cafes and restaurants. Marina Rünthe is also equipped with cafes and restaurants, making it a convenient stop for refreshments.
What are the charming old towns worth visiting in the region?
Kreis Unna features several charming old towns that predate the Ruhr's mining boom. The old towns of Unna, Werne, and Schwerte are particularly notable. Schwerte's old town is known for having survived a major flood. Unna's Historic Old Town offers a rich history with 26 historical points and various themed tours, including the beautiful Nicolaiviertel.
Most popular routes around Kreis Unna
Most popular attractions around Kreis Unna
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