The Ruhrgebiet / Ruhrgebiet. We mentioned it before: Close but still a very different world.
Last weekend we visited Zeche Ewald in Herten.
That is one of the last closed mines in the region. In contrast to other 'Zeches' and 'Halden', the vulture atmosphere is more relaxed in the sixties than 'Highly Historical'.
This is mainly because the site is large and open. On the adjacent Halde is an open, pyramid structure that gives people without a fear of heights a fantastic view of the region.
The surrounding park is ideal for day tourism, including all the space for off road cycling.
The terrain around the mine shafts is often - spontaneously, or organized, used by classic enthusiasts.
The local hospitality industry in the form of terraces, beer and sausages is extremely relaxed and pleasantly affordable.
In the area there is ample room to spend the night in one of the many hotels that have survived from the time that 'Kohlenpott' was still the beating heart of the nation.
The Ruhr area: Highly recommended. And wrong parking costs only ten euros!