Between Pleasure and Art

Anyone cycling along the RuhrtalRadweg enjoys not only the route but also the breaks—one of the trail’s original culinary partners is the Rohrmeisterei in Schwerte. This collaboration is a major win for both the bike trail and the Rohrmeisterei. Jennifer Peters, volunteer board member of the Rohrmeisterei Community Foundation, and Tobias Becker, volunteer board member of the Rohrmeisterei Community Foundation, shared what it means to operate a restaurant along a river bike path and how they help shape the trail.

It wasn’t always possible for cyclists to ride over from the RuhrtalRadweg to the Rohrmeisterei—an industrial monument—as easily as they can today. Originally, there was no direct connection from the Ruhrtal and, consequently, none from the RuhrtalRadweg either. That didn’t change until 2010, when a direct crossing was created as part of the Ruhr Capital of Culture initiative. Incidentally, the path from the bike trail to the restaurants is already a highlight in its own right: sculptures and public art line the way. These include, for example, the light sculpture “Helle Kammer” by Japanese artist Kazuo Katase. In this way, the Rohrmeisterei helps shape the RuhrtalRadweg.

Tobias Becker, pictured here behind the counter at the Rohrmeisterei, is delighted that so many cyclists are finding their way to this industrial landmark.

The RuhrtalRadweg is a constant presence in everyday life, as many cyclists stop at the Rohrmeisterei for a break with a cold drink and delicious Essen. The spacious Biergarten is especially popular during the summer months and when the weather is nice. Larger groups are also welcome, as are cyclists who’ve had a breakdown and can use the bike service station right in front of the building. The number of bike racks had to be increased to properly accommodate the bikes during their stay. The network is also strong along the RuhrtalRadweg; there is close cooperation with the Kulturschmiede Fröndenberg—their shared location along the river bike trail brings them together.

A favorite spot along the RuhrtalRadweg: a bench within earshot of the Rohrmeisterei with a direct view of the Ruhr—the ideal place to take a break.

Just as the RuhrtalRadweg has continued to evolve over the past 20 years, the Rohrmeisterei industrial monument is also constantly changing. The plateau is set to be expanded to create more places for cyclists to linger. The range of events is set to be expanded—including open-air events. This will allow for even more intensive use of the connection to the Ruhr. Here’s to continued, fruitful collaboration on the RuhrtalRadweg and all that’s yet to come!

Want more insights from the people who have shaped the RuhrtalRadweg over the past 20 years? Then check out Instagram and Facebook or keep an eye on this website. Throughout the anniversary year, we’ll be posting new stories from people connected to the RuhrtalRadweg on a regular basis.