Best attractions and places to see in Nsg Koellnischer Wald, a nature reserve and Flora-Fauna-Habitat site located between Alt-Bottrop and Kirchhellen. This area features the Köllnischer Forest, characterized by numerous small paths, an open deciduous forest, and several small streams. Historically, the forest was named after a Cologne bishop who owned the land centuries ago. Due to past mining activities, the terrain has subsided, leading to a rise in groundwater, which is now artificially managed to maintain the ecosystem.
Last updated: July 5, 2026
Highlight • Cycleway
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Highlight • Forest
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Highlight • Natural Monument
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Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Highlight • Trail
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Beautiful route along the slag heap. I highly recommend it. It's a great place to unwind ✌️
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The shelter was built by various craftsmen from Kirchhellen at the end of 2025 as part of the 125th anniversary celebrations of the Kolping Family Kirchhellen.
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As a mountain biker you are no longer welcome there.
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From up here you have a beautiful view.
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I wonder how the photo above of this highlight was taken when the dump has not yet been released by the RAG 🚫 😳 Komoot has also blocked the paths here. The dump was partly planted and now needs 1-3 years until nature 🌳 has secured everything and was able to spread further. You can still go up there early enough.
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Super well-developed paths – cycling is fun in the Ruhr area.
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You don't expect routes like this on the outskirts of the Ruhr area. Just nice to cycle along here.
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Nsg Koellnischer Wald stands for Naturschutzgebiet Köllnischer Wald, which means Köllnischer Forest Nature Reserve. It is an ecologically important area recognized as a Flora-Fauna-Habitat (FFH) site, dedicated to the preservation of rare communities, habitats, and natural mixed deciduous forests.
The area is primarily characterized by the Köllnischer Forest itself, featuring numerous small paths, an open deciduous forest with minimal undergrowth, and several small streams. You can also visit the Schöttelheide Spoil Heap, a mining waste heap that offers views of the surrounding area.
Yes, the Forest trails in the Köllnischer Wald are popular for walking and hiking, inviting visitors to explore the natural environment. The Spechtbach Trail is another well-defined route for walkers. For more options, you can find various easy hikes in the area, including loops around the Schöttelheide Spoil Heap. Explore more hiking routes at Easy hikes in Nsg Koellnischer Wald.
The terrain in the Köllnischer Wald is generally characterized by an open deciduous forest with numerous small paths and several small streams. Historically, mining activities led to subsidence, causing a rise in groundwater, which is now artificially managed to maintain the ecosystem. While mostly flat, some areas like the Schöttelheide Spoil Heap offer elevated views.
Nsg Koellnischer Wald is excellent for various outdoor activities. Besides hiking and walking, you can enjoy cycling on routes like the Cycle Path at Schöttelheide Spoil Heap. There are also dedicated routes for running. You can find more options for cycling at Cycling in Nsg Koellnischer Wald and running at Running Trails in Nsg Koellnischer Wald.
Yes, the area is considered family-friendly, offering various outdoor activities suitable for all ages. The Köllnischer Forest and the Cycle Path at Schöttelheide Spoil Heap are great options for family outings.
While the trails are popular with dog owners, it's important to be mindful of the nature reserve status. Visitors are encouraged to behave cautiously and prudently, especially regarding wildlife. Always keep dogs on a leash and clean up after them to preserve the natural environment.
The Köllnischer Wald can be enjoyed year-round. However, conditions vary seasonally. For instance, some trails can become quite muddy in November, suggesting that spring and summer offer drier, more comfortable conditions for walking and cycling. The open deciduous forest provides a pleasant experience in warmer months.
The Nsg Koellnischer Wald is located between Alt-Bottrop and Kirchhellen. While specific parking details are not provided, a compass or GPS app is recommended for navigating the forest paths, implying that visitors typically arrive by car and park nearby. Public transport options may be limited, so planning your journey in advance is advisable.
Visitors particularly enjoy the peaceful and clean forest environment, describing it as a wonderful place to hike and cycle. The well-developed paths, especially the Cycle Path at Schöttelheide Spoil Heap, are highly praised for offering pleasant routes. Many appreciate the opportunity to 'drift nicely' through the forest's small paths and streams.
As a nature reserve and Flora-Fauna-Habitat site, Nsg Koellnischer Wald is dedicated to preserving and promoting rare communities and habitats. You can expect to find old-growth stands and stream areas that support endangered wild animal and plant species. The bird world, in particular, is noted as impressive.


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