Friendship Path

Until 1969, Neunkirchen and Seelscheid were independent municipalities. When the corresponding territorial change law came into effect on August 1, 1969, it marked the birth of the present-day municipality of Neunkirchen-Seelscheid.

To mark the 50th anniversary of the municipality in 2019, the Neunkirchen-Seelscheid Partnership Association, the Seelscheid Tourism and Beautification Association, and the Neunkirchen Beautification Association created the Friendship Trail, thereby reaffirming and putting into practice the idea of ​​connecting the two districts in this respect as well. At the same time, it is also dedicated to the friendship with the European partner municipalities.

Neunkirchen-Seelscheid lies on the southwestern edge of the Bergisches Land region, approximately 200 meters above sea level. The landscape is characterized by small, wooded stream valleys, with the Naafbach and Bröl streams forming the boundary, while the Wahnbach stream divides the municipality. The route leads along forest tracks, farm roads, and lightly trafficked streets, with constant ups and downs. It is quite challenging, but not difficult.

Although a circular route, it is designed to be hiked in two stages. The southern branch crosses the Wahnbach stream near an outpost of the nearby reservoir, while the northern branch starts at one of the formerly numerous mills. The two starting points represent both the same significance and the distinct characters of Neunkirchen and Seelscheid.

The starting panels provide information about the two main towns and the three clubs. Further information panels along the way introduce the partner towns of Bicester, Essarts-en-Bocage, and Czernichów, each in German, English, French, and Polish. Thus, the "Friendship Trail" connects not only the two districts of Neunkirchen and Seelscheid, but also the four partner towns.

On the path through the Wenigerbach valley, a charming view opens up of the village and mountain of Seelscheid with its two churches. From the shelter at the top near Breitscheid, one can see far into the countryside, as far as Cologne and beyond. In Bicester Park in Seelscheid, the coats of arms of the three partner municipalities are carved in stone.
The seclusion of the Wendbach valley alternates with unobstructed views across the Bergisches Land hills to the north and east.

If you only plan to hike part of the route, you might have time for a detour. For example, a visit to the apocalyptic paintings in St. Margaret's Church in Neunkirchen or a short stroll through the village and hill of Seelscheid with its half-timbered houses are worthwhile. Neunkirchen and Seelscheid offer weary hikers plenty of opportunities to rest and refresh themselves.

Starting point Neunkirchen: Parking lot at the market square, Am Wiedenhof, 53819 Neunkirchen-Seelscheid
Starting point Seelscheid: Parking lot at the war memorial, Am Ehrenmal 11, 53819 Neunkirchen-Seelscheid