Telegraphenberg

The Telegraphenberg in Troisdorf is, at about 134 metres, the highest elevation of the Wahner Heide and a popular viewpoint. The former Rodderberg has borne its present name since 1832 after Station 53 of the Prussian optical telegraph line between Berlin and Koblenz. From here one enjoys wide views over the heath landscape, the Cologne/Bonn airport area and, in clear weather, as far as the Bergisches Land. The 10.7-kilometre Telegraphenberg Tour is the longest circular walking trail in the Wahner Heide and leads through inland dunes, birch pioneer forests and open heathland. In the immediate vicinity are the historic Forsthaus Telegraph and the Waldwirtschaft Heidekönig. The hill is free of charge and ideal for walks and hikes in one of the most species-rich nature reserves in North Rhine-Westphalia.

History of Telegraphenberg

The history of the Telegraphenberg is closely linked to Prussian optical telegraphy. Until 1832 the elevation was called Rodderberg or Rotter Berg. On the orders of King Frederick William III the optical telegraph line from Berlin to Koblenz was constructed from 1832. Station 53 on the hill began operation in 1833 and was one of the 61 stations of the approximately 600-kilometre route. With wing signals messages could be transmitted in about 30 minutes. The distance to the neighbouring station in Zündorf was 9.3 kilometres, to the station in Söven 8.6 kilometres. In 1852 the section was discontinued after completion of an electromechanical line and the mast tower was dismantled. The building subsequently served as a forester’s lodge and from 1894 for the catering of walkers. Later the elevation was also used militarily as a target aid. Today the name recalls this historic communication link, and Forsthaus Telegraph together with the neighbouring Waldwirtschaft Heidekönig characterise the site.

Highlights of Telegraphenberg

The highlights of the Telegraphenberg lie in the view and the surrounding heath landscape. From the summit one looks over the central and eastern Wahner Heide, the airport grounds and, in favourable wind, at aircraft taking off and landing. The Telegraphenberg Tour covers 10.7 kilometres through inland dunes, birch pioneer forests and open heathland and is the longest circular route in the Wahner Heide. In late summer the flowering heather turns the landscape violet-red. The sand lizard, an SAC species, is frequently encountered here. The historic Forsthaus Telegraph and the Waldwirtschaft Heidekönig offer refreshment opportunities. A signal mast of air traffic control stands on the hill. The paths are marked and follow the path obligation of the nature reserve. The hill is suitable for families and walkers and rewards with panoramic views and the typical heath atmosphere.

Opening Hours, Tickets & How to Get to Telegraphenberg

The Telegraphenberg is accessible year-round and free of charge. The walking trails of the Wahner Heide are subject to the path obligation; leaving the marked paths is prohibited. By car reach parking areas at Fliegenberg (Altenrather Straße), at Mauspfad or at the Heidekönig. By public transport travel to Spich or Troisdorf station and use bus lines towards Spich or Altenrath. The walk to the starting points is short. The Waldwirtschaft Heidekönig has its own opening times and serves as a starting point. Sturdy footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. The Telegraphenberg Tour takes about three hours. Rules of conduct and information boards must be observed, as parts of the heath are former military terrain.

Attractions Near Telegraphenberg

In the immediate vicinity of the Telegraphenberg are Forsthaus Telegraph and the Waldwirtschaft Heidekönig. Fliegenberg, the Leyenweiher and further circular routes of the Wahner Heide are easily reachable. Burg Wissem with museums and deer park as well as the forest and bird park complete the offer. The Wahner Heide information centre in Altenrath and the portal at Burg Wissem provide information about the heath. Bonn and Cologne lie within easy reach. In this way a visit to the hill can easily be combined with a heath walk, a stop for refreshments and an exploration of the surrounding natural and cultural sites.