Zons Segway Tour: A Unique Blend of History, Nature, and Adventure
If you’re exploring North Rhine-Westphalia, a trip to Zons on the Rhine is a must. Known for its charming medieval architecture and its location between Cologne and Düsseldorf, Zons offers more than just pretty streets—it’s a lively spot where history meets scenic beauty. The Segway tour organized by Glider Tours adds a modern twist, allowing you to glide through the old customs town and nearby woods with ease and fun.
What I really like about this experience is how it combines outdoor activity with cultural exploration. The guides—though names aren’t specified—are known for their friendly demeanor and local knowledge, making the whole outing feel relaxed and informative. Plus, the scenic route over the dike and along the Rhine meadows reveals views where you might spot herons and other wildlife—an unexpected bonus for nature lovers.
On the downside, this tour isn’t suitable for everyone. It’s geared toward those who are comfortable on a Segway, able to stand for a couple of hours, and ready to follow safety instructions. Pregnant women, children under 15, and people with certain health conditions should look elsewhere. But for most travelers who meet the criteria, the value of the experience far outweighs the minor restrictions.
Key points / Takeaways
- Scenic blend of history and nature: The tour offers a delightful mix of medieval sights and riverside views.
- Easy to learn and glide: No prior experience needed, with helmets provided and guides to help you get comfortable.
- Highlights the ancient customs fortress: A key stop that showcases Zons’s maritime past.
- Suitable for active travelers: You’ll explore the Zonser Heide forest and the historic town in just two hours.
- Authentic local experience: Guides provide insights in German, adding to the local flavor.
- Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance and reserve now, pay later.
Discovering Zons by Segway: A Practical Overview
If you’re after a fun, slightly unconventional way to explore, the Zons Segway tour delivers. It’s a 2-hour adventure that lets you cover a lot of ground while soaking in scenes that are both scenic and steeped in history. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a bit of adrenaline, love discovering offbeat spots, and aren’t shy about trying something new.
Meeting Point and Logistics
The tour begins in a parking area right in front of the forest, which makes it easy to access. From there, you’ll start with a brief safety and orientation session, then set off through the Zonser Heide, a beautiful forest popular with locals and travelers alike. The first leg of the tour is a smooth, guided ride through this natural setting, giving everyone a chance to get comfortable on the Segway and enjoy the fresh air.
A Walk Through Medieval Zons
After the forest, the tour shifts gears—literally—as you explore the medieval customs town. Expect to see well-preserved city walls, impressive towers, and the historic fortress that once protected Zons’s trading secrets. The guides, who speak German, share stories about the town’s past as a customs hub—an important crossing point on the Rhine—adding depth to the sightseeing.
Scenic Route Along the Rhine
Next, the route takes you over the dike and along the Rhine meadows. This part of the tour is especially captivating during good weather, as you can often spot herons and other birds in the wetlands. The views of the river and the surrounding countryside are a highlight, perfect for snapping memorable photos.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The experience includes the Segway rental, helmet, and a guided city tour—a package that offers good value considering the scenic and cultural richness. Tips are not included, so if you enjoy the tour, a gratuity is appreciated but optional.
Who Will Love This Tour
This adventure is ideally suited for active, curious travelers aged 15 and older who enjoy outdoor activities and cultural sights. It’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with heart problems, vertigo, epilepsy, or those over 260 lbs (118 kg). Children under 15 need to be accompanied by an adult, as the tour requires standing balance and basic coordination.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Dormagen.
In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Experience
Starting Point: Parking in Front of the Forest
The meeting spot is straightforward—just a parking lot in front of the Zonser Heide. You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes and clothes, suitable for moving around outdoors. The guides emphasize safety and provide helmets, and you’ll likely get some quick tips on how to stay balanced, which helps beginners feel more confident.
Riding Through the Forest
The first part of the tour takes you through the Zonser Heide, a scenic forest trail. As you glide along, you’ll notice the peaceful surroundings—trees towering overhead and a quiet atmosphere that’s quite different from busy city streets. A few reviewers mention that their guides, like “Stefan,” made the ride easy and enjoyable, even for first-timers. The forest is a refreshing break from urban sightseeing and a chance to experience nature in a relaxed way.
Exploring the Old Customs Fortress
Next, you’ll head into the heart of Zons itself. The medieval customs fortress is a star attraction, with its impressive towers and remaining city walls. Here, guides share stories about Zons’s past as a key trading point on the Rhine, which adds context to the sights. One reviewer notes, “The fortress is a highlight, and the guide’s story about how Zons handled trade and customs was unexpectedly fascinating.”
Scenic Dike and Rhine Meadows
The final leg of the tour takes you along the dike, offering panoramic views of the Rhine. This part is particularly appreciated for the stunning vistas—perfect for photos. If you’re lucky, you might spot herons or other wetland birds, making it a scenic, peaceful ending to your ride.
Duration and Group Size
The tour lasts exactly 2 hours, and group sizes are manageable, creating a friendly, personal atmosphere. The flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours ahead provides peace of mind, and the “reserve now, pay later” option makes planning easier if your schedule is uncertain.
Value for the Money
Considering the guided experience, the scenic stops, and the chance to try a Segway—an activity that can be surprisingly accessible—the cost feels reasonable. You’re paying for a mix of outdoor fun, cultural insights, and scenic beauty, all in a compact time frame.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re an active traveler looking for a different way to explore charming towns, this tour fits well. It’s perfect for those who want to combine light adventure with cultural discovery. It’s especially suitable if you’re in Cologne or Düsseldorf and want a quick, memorable outing that feels both fun and authentic.
However, if you have mobility issues, are uncomfortable on a standing vehicle, or fall outside the age or weight restrictions, you’ll want to explore other options. The tour’s focus on beginner-friendly Segway riding means you don’t need prior experience, but you do need to be able to stand and follow safety instructions.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
For a lively, engaging way to see Zons, the Segway tour offers a satisfying mix of scenic views, historic sites, and outdoor activity—all wrapped into just two hours. The guides’ friendliness, the picturesque route along the Rhine, and the chance to explore the medieval fortress make it especially appealing. It’s a good choice for curious, active travelers who enjoy a bit of novelty and want an authentic taste of this charming old town.
While it’s not suited for everyone—particularly those with health or mobility restrictions—the experience provides excellent value for a manageable price. It’s an excellent add-on if you’re already planning to visit Cologne or Düsseldorf and want a fun detour that’s more than just a standard sightseeing walk.
FAQ
How long is the Zons Segway Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, including riding and sightseeing.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at parking in front of the forest and ends back at the same meeting point.
Is it suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 15 years old.
Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund.
Do I need prior experience with Segways?
No, the guides help you get comfortable on the Segway, and no prior experience is necessary.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for outdoor activity; high heels and alcohol are not allowed.
Are helmets provided?
Yes, helmet rental is included.
Is the tour available in English?
The tour is conducted in German, but guides are friendly and will help non-German speakers if possible.
What kind of views will I see?
Expect scenic views of the Rhine River, the forest, and historic Zons with its ancient fortress and city walls.
Can I book this tour last-minute?
Yes, with the “reserve now, pay later” option, you can book in advance and pay when you’re ready.
To sum it up, the Zons Segway tour offers a memorable way to explore a historically rich town with beautiful surroundings. It’s particularly suited for those wanting a fun, active outing that blends culture, nature, and a touch of adventure. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or just looking for a unique activity, this experience can add a special highlight to your trip in North Rhine-Westphalia.