All tours in Hagen

Hagen

The Iron River's Return: Hagen's Ecological Awakening

0.8 km38 min3 stops

What awaits you on this Red Thread tour

Discover the miraculous resurrection of the Volme River. Once a toxic industrial sewer devoid of life, this waterway is now the frontline of an epic ecological comeback. Join your guides as they trace the river's journey from a concrete-lined casualty of the metal and paper industries to a thriving, renatured habitat welcoming back the Atlantic salmon. This is a story of grassroots rebellion, cutting-edge engineering, and nature's stubborn will to survive.

Itinerary

1

TOUR START

The Grassroots Anchor

A vital hub for local grassroots organizations and the narrative anchor for the community-driven push towards ecological awareness in Hagen.

The Grassroots Anchor

Image by Meister on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

0.22 km • 3 min
2

STOP 2

The Bridge of Memory and Flow

A historic vantage point to discuss the industrial pollution of the Volme and the intersection of environmental and human history.

0.53 km • 8 min
3

END

The Classroom on the Banks

An educational institution representing the future of the river's rebirth, where students actively participate in ecological monitoring.

Where the tour takes place

Starting point and rough tour area – the exact route unfolds in the app.

Good to know

  • Ideal for Eco-tourists, history buffs, urban planners, and anyone inspired by environmental restoration and grassroots activism.
  • Best time Late morning to afternoon, when the community spaces are buzzing and the sunlight hits the river's restored banks.
  • Footwear Wear comfortable walking shoes for navigating urban pavements and riverbanks.
  • Pacing Take your time at the bridge to truly observe the water's flow and clarity.
  • Engagement Don't hesitate to step into the AllerWeltHaus if it's open; the cafe is excellent.
  • Observation Bring binoculars if you're a bird watcher or want to spot fish in the shallows.
  • Your voucher You can redeem your voucher for two years from purchase. Once redeemed, you have 14 days of access and can enjoy the tour as often as you like during that time.

Your guide

Tom Bennett
Audio sample
0:000:00

Tom Bennett

  • Urbanism, Infrastructure & Innovation
  • Northern England

Architecture and urban planning professional. Explains the city's hidden systems – from mobility to water pipes – clearly and vividly.

Frequently asked questions

How do I get to the tour after buying?

You see your voucher code right after payment – and you also receive it at the email address you entered at checkout. Redeem that code in the Red Thread app; that's where the tour starts.

When does my access start?

Only when you redeem the code in the app, not at purchase. From redemption you have 14 days of access to the tour.

Do I need the Red Thread app?

Yes. The free Red Thread app turns your tour into a vivid experience: with audio, a map, and thoughtful prompts, it guides you from place to place in an engaging and entertaining way. It's available free for iOS and Android.

Discover more tours in Hagen

Experience Hagen from more surprising perspectives.

See more tours in Hagen
Now only €3.99 incl. VAT