Bergischer Wandertag on the Beer Trail

The Bergisches Land region kicks off its autumn hiking season on Sunday, September 13, 2026 , with the "Bergisches Wandertag" (Bergisches Hiking Day). This eventful day takes place in Wiehl-Bielstein on the Bergisches Streifzug No. 17, the "Bierweg" (Beer Trail) . This is one of 25 Bergisches Streifzug trails in the Bergisches Wanderland hiking region. The hike starts at 10:00 a.m. at the Erzquell Brewery.

Beer has been brewed in Wiehl-Bielstein since 1900. The Beer Trail offers insights into the history of the local Erzquell Brewery and the art of brewing. It leads you along the path to the ingredients that have been used for centuries in accordance with the German Purity Law of 1516: barley, hops, and water. The circular route takes you to the spring that supplies the water for Bielstein's beer. You'll learn that malt, derived from barley, determines both the color and the fullness of flavor of the beer, as well as the secrets of hops and yeast. 

Our nature park guide, Guido Wagner, and our tour guide, Regina Kerstin, will accompany the group starting at 10:00 AM on two tours. They will explain why Kölsch is brewed in the heart of the Bergisches Land region and share interesting facts about top-fermented and bottom-fermented beers. Mr. Wagner will hike the entire 13,4-kilometer Beer Trail , while Ms. Kerstin will offer a tour of approximately 7 kilometers . You'll receive a "hiking apple" and a small soft drink to take with you. Please remember to bring additional snacks and drinks. Along the way, you'll open a hop cellar together and sample an underground-cooled beverage from the Erzquell Brewery (free of charge; non-alcoholic options are also available).

Back at the brewery, you can either end your hike relaxing with a drink (for a fee) in the brewery courtyard or take part in a free brewery tour. Regina Kerstin will give you fascinating insights into the brewing process, and you'll learn how beer specialties are brewed with passion and traditional craftsmanship. 

Participation in the Bergisches Land Hiking Day is free. However, please register online in advance (booking link below).  

Anyone who enjoys being active is welcome to join the hike; dogs on leashes are also welcome.  
The Bergische Wandertag is supported by Radio Berg, Kölnische Rundschau and the Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger. 

Look forward to a little break from everyday life! 

Cost: Free. Registration: Yes. Please register for the hike with Das Bergische and decide whether you would like to hike 7 or 13 kilometers. Registration is only possible online.

You can register here and then choose one of the two tours offered.

ARRIVAL 

By car: Take the A4 to the Bielstein exit. Parking is available on Dreibholzer Straße, at the train station square, on Bielsteiner Straße near Dornseifers, at the outdoor swimming pool on Jahnstraße, and at Dr.-Hoffmann-Platz. The parking areas are approximately a 5-20 minute walk from the starting point.

By public transport: Take the RB 25 to Dieringhausen. Then take bus 302 or 304 towards Waldbröl to Bielstein bus station. From there, the brewery is about a five-minute walk (approx. 400 m). Please check the current departure times beforehand.