InSIghts
Action, nature and fun: An der Alche recreation area
The River Alche rises in the Freudenberger Bergland and flows into the Sieg in the centre of Siegen just 11.5 km later. Along its banks, there is a great deal waiting to be discovered: beautiful countryside, the Minigolf Arena Siegen, the Cafe del Sol, a childrens’ playground, skate park, MTB flowtrail and camper van parking – plus Motel Timberjacks, a typically American grill restaurant that opened in September 2021.
Let’s go!
Whether you are on foot or cycling, the area is less than 15 minutes from Siegen station. Visitors have a choice of routes: one path leads past the vocational schools on the Alche before taking in a number of majestic villas dating from the early part of the 20th century. The alternative route through the little park at the foot of the Wellersberg is particularly attractive in the spring; this option also presents one of the city’s most beloved photo opportunities in cherry blossom time. The area is easily accessible by public transport as well: all buses departing from the station towards Freudenberg stop here (get out at Schützenstraße). Car parking is available at the Cafe del Sol and Timberjacks.
Golfing experience for all ages
The Minigolf Arena Siegen makes a great day-trip destination for the whole family – and it’s only a kilometre from the railway station. Having undergone a thorough modernisation over the past few years, the Minigolf Arena – which offers 18 artificial turf holes – now stands as one of the most popular and attractive golf facilities in Germany. Distinctive hole designs, ponds and fountains make the site something special; there’s even a waterfall. Before or after a game, it’s well worth visiting the large covered terrace, where young minigolf players of the future can play with all sorts of toys. Naturally, you don’t need to be playing minigolf to call in for a coffee, an ice cream or a cool drink. Everyone’s welcome! For more information: https://www.minigolf-arena.de/
A few hundred metres away, another small but attractive playground, complete with everything a child could wish for, is tucked behind the Cafe del Sol. Parents can take a relaxing rest on a sunny bench, or enjoy the shade on the adjacent lawn – all the while staying close enough to keep a good eye on the kids.
Holiday mood in the colonial style
The Cafe del Sol – a light-filled villa in the colonial style with surrounding patio, swings and spacious seating areas indoors and out – is located just under 200 metres from the Minigolf Arena. Visitors can stop for a bite at any time of day: the cafe has a great atmosphere and serves a whole range of culinary delights from breakfast every morning to lunch specials, coffee and cakes, delicious burgers, salads and evening cocktails. There is also free parking on site. For more information: https://www.cafedelsol.de/
Tip for camper van drivers: Four spaces for camper vans are available in the middle of the leisure area, between the Cafe del Sol and the playground.
On your bike!
Whether you ride a BMX, a skateboard or a scooter, Skaterplatz Numbach is all about skill on wheels. The 750-square-metre skate park, which opened in 2012, is packed with great features, including a quarter pipe with hip, banks, a spine, rooftop with ledge and many more challenges. The park is a popular meeting spot for children and young people: they can get together, “talk shop”, showcase their skills and attempt the tricks performed by the professionals. The park was actually planned and developed in partnership with young skaters, taking their wishes into account. For more information and opening times for the summer and winter seasons, please visit: https://www.siegen.de/leben-in-siegen/buergerservice/gruenflaechen/spiel-und-bolzplaetze/skaterplatz-numbach/
Those looking for an even more physical challenge can bike down the flowtrail, which terminates next to the Johanna-Russ School several hundred metres on.
American living, in the heart of Siegen
Since it opened in September 2021, the sprawling American-style log building in Siegen’s Numbach district has awakened yearnings for the Rocky Mountains. Timberjacks is all about ‘beef, beer and rock ‘n’ roll’ – and guests can sense the mood before they even set foot in the restaurant. The menu covers steaks, burgers and Mexican specialities (tacos, burritos and fajitas) along with typically American desserts and cakes. No evening at Timberjacks would be complete without an authentic line-up of entertainment, courtesy of a giant LED screen, open fireplaces, rodeo riding, live music, screenings and other events. Built in the same style, the four chalets next to the main building housing the restaurant serve as a motel. For more information: https://www.timberjacks.com/siegen