Ever wondered about the journey of a modest stream? The Saaler Mühlenbach tells a tale of nature and human interaction. This seemingly small waterway has quietly shaped the landscape around Bergisch Gladbach.
The Saaler Mühlenbach begins its journey in Moitzfeld. It springs from a meadow and flows north-westward through the Hardt. The stream passes the Klärteich der Grube Jungfrau and the Jungfrauenweiher. It then meets the Milchbornbach near the Waldstadion Milchborntal. The Saaler Mühlenbach continues through Bensberg. It flows into the man-made Bensberger See. Finally, it joins the Frankenforstbach in Refrath after passing through the Kahnweiher.
Interestingly, parts of the Saaler Mühlenbach run underground in pipes. This happens near the Freibad Milchborntal. Other covered stretches are near Gladbacher Straße and from Saaler Straße to Bensberger See. The final underground section is from In der Taufe street to its mouth.
The Saaler Mühlenbach has a drainage area of 6.352 square kilometers. This area lies within both the Bergische Hochflächen and the Bergische Heideterrassen. Its only named tributary is the Milchbornbach. It joins the Saaler Mühlenbach 590 meters from its source.
Historically, the stretch from the Milchbornbach confluence to Bensberger See was also called Milchbornbach. The section from Kahnweiher to the mouth was once known as Gronauer Bach. It marked the boundary between Refrath and Gronau.
The Milchbornbach itself gets its name from the water’s milky color. “Milchborn” means a spring with milky water. This small stream flows for about 1.6 kilometers. It originates east of Moitzfeld cemetery. It flows through the Milchborntal to the Waldstadion Milchborntal. It also feeds the Kadettenweiher.
The Saaler Mühlenbach flows into the Frankenforstbach. The Frankenforstbach then flows into the Faulbach. Finally, the Faulbach flows into the Rhine and then into the North Sea.
Today, the Saaler Mühle, also known as Bensberger See or Saaler Mühlenteich, is part of a recreation area. The Saaler Mühlenbach flows through it, making it seem like a small reservoir. Near the lake, there is a sauna, an ice rink, a school, and a golf course. A walking path surrounds the lake. It is a popular spot, especially in summer.
The Saaler Mühlenbach may be a small stream, but it connects different parts of the landscape. Its journey from Moitzfeld to the Rhine tells a story of nature. It also shows how humans have shaped its path. As you stand here, consider the water’s long journey. Think about the history it has witnessed.