13. Rotary Rallye Witten-Hohenstein

A Charity Rally in Southern Witten

Since its premiere in 2013, the Rotary Rallye Witten-Hohenstein has become a fixture in the Rhenish-Westphalian classic car calendar. What began as an idea by some members of the Rotary Club Witten-Hohenstein has developed into one of the region's most charismatic charity rallies. 2026 marks the 13th edition.

Start/Finish: ABUS Plant in Wetter-Volmarstein

The start and finish of the rally is the ABUS plant at Nielandstraße 33 in Wetter-Volmarstein — Wetter (Ruhr) is located in the Ennepe-Ruhr district, directly southwest of Witten. Before the start at around 10:00 AM, there will be a drivers' briefing and coffee at the starting point. After approximately 100 km of route with numerous special stages, checkpoints, and skill tests, the field will return in the late afternoon.

Around 80 Classic and Sports Cars

The field of participants includes about 80 vehicles — predominantly classic cars eligible for H-plates, as well as classic sports cars. The range extends from pre-war showpieces and Porsche 911s and Mercedes SLs from the 1960s to more recent classics. The entry fee is €85 per person (driver and co-driver separately) — the rally is limited to 80 vehicles.

Benefit for Local and International Projects

All proceeds from entry fees and sponsorships go to non-profit projects for children and families — from music therapy programs and medical initiatives in Eastern Europe and Africa to supporting local Witten family projects. Registration via Jutta Backhaus ([email protected]).

Witten and the Ruhr Area

The city of Witten is located in the Ennepe-Ruhr district in the southeastern Ruhr area — the gateway to the Bergisches Land and Sauerland regions. With Hardenstein Castle, the Hohenstein nature reserve, and the University of Witten/Herdecke, the city combines industrial and natural landscapes. The Rotary Club Witten-Hohenstein has been one of the city's most active service organizations for years.