The best cycling routes around Xanten
4.5
(4270)
21,126
riders
205
rides
Touring cycling routes around Xanten are characterized by flat terrain, diverse waterways, and historical sites. The region features numerous rivers, forests, and the prominent Xanten South and North Lakes, offering varied backdrops for rides. The expansive Lower Rhine Floodplain contributes to easy and enjoyable cycling, with routes often passing through charming villages. This gentle topography makes Xanten an accessible destination for touring cyclists.
Best touring cycling routes around Xanten
- The most popular touring cycling route is Xantener Nordsee – View…
Last updated: April 30, 2026
4.7
(364)
1,610
riders
18.8km
01:10
30m
30m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(265)
1,032
riders
43.7km
02:40
70m
70m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(225)
705
riders
56.3km
03:43
180m
180m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(246)
1,278
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(186)
578
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The 3.4 km long and 6 m high city wall was built starting in 105 AD and featured a parapet walk or earthworks on its inner side. The top of the wall was crowned with battlements, and a double ditch ran along three sides of the fortifications, while only a simple V-shaped ditch existed on the harbor side. Nevertheless, the wall was primarily intended to demonstrate Roman power. The fortifications had a total of 22 towers and three impressive main gates with double passageways on the main roads: the North Gate (also known as the Burginatum Gate), the Maastor Gate, and the Vetera Gate. Since there was no main gate on the Rhine side, some of the towers, such as the Harbor Gate, the Molentor Gate, and the Small Harbor Gate, had simple passageways. Today, the eastern corner of the Roman city wall near the amphitheater, the North Gate, and the nine towers between the North Gate and the main entrance to the city center have been partially reconstructed. To create a continuous facade, the remaining spaces between the towers are planted with hedges. The city wall is to be gradually reconstructed and sections of it are now open to the public. The North Gate, also known as the Burginatium Gate, was the main northern gate leading towards the Roman fort of Burginatium (in Altkalkar). It was reconstructed to its full height. Like the other two main gates, it had a double passageway, was flanked by gate towers, and consisted of three stories. The gate is now open to the public and houses the exhibition "Death & Burial." The harbor of Roman Xanten was located at the Harbor Gate (or East Gate). This gate had a single passageway and is now open to the public. In front of the Molen Gate, which also had a single passageway, the Rhine harbor mole was located in Roman times. However, the Rhine silted up around 300 BC, necessitating the construction of a new mole further north. The gate tower is now open to the public and serves as the entrance to the Harbor Temple park. Source: https://www.roemer-tour.de/roemerwegen/deutschland/nordrhein-westfalen/xanten-colonia-ulpia-traiana/stadtmauer-tore-xanten/
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A very beautiful cycle path along the Niers River. It can be muddy after prolonged rain.
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In beautiful cycling weather, we took a bike tour along the Castles & Palaces Route on the Lower Rhine. The journey is well worth it for a day trip, so we grabbed our bikes and enjoyed the sunny day in the beautiful landscape. We discovered many sights along the way. I'll show you which moated castles typical of the Lower Rhine are located along the bike route. Learn how we took the ferry, where we discovered the Lower Rhine gold, and where pilgrims have been making pilgrimages for centuries: https://www.netreisetagebuch.de/burgen-und-schloesser-route/
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The Lower Rhine Castles & Palaces Route runs for approximately 50 kilometers through the Lower Rhine plain. It connects the towns of Kevelaer, Weeze, Goch, and Geldern. True to its name, you'll pass numerous castles along the way. The first part of the cycle tour follows an idyllic path along the Niers River. Since a river doesn't flow in a circle, the second half of the circular tour mainly cycles through meadows and fields. But that's precisely what makes the Lower Rhine Castles & Palaces Route so diverse: https://www.netreisetagebuch.de/burgen-und-schloesser-route/
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All in all, we really enjoyed the Castles & Palaces Route. It runs along varied paths through the beautiful landscape of the Lower Rhine. There's always something to discover and learn along the way. There are also numerous places to stop for refreshments and rest stops along the route, so you can take plenty of breaks. We can definitely recommend this bike tour with a clear conscience. We were particularly pleased to discover not only nature but also a piece of Lower Rhine history along the way. Learn more about our exciting tour on the Castles & Palaces Route at: https://www.netreisetagebuch.de/burgen-und-schloesser-route/
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The Lower Rhine Castles & Palaces Route runs for approximately 50 kilometers through the Lower Rhine plain. It connects the towns of Kevelaer, Weeze, Goch, and Geldern. True to its name, you'll pass numerous castles along the way. The first part of the cycle tour follows an idyllic path along the Niers River. Since a river doesn't flow in a circle, the second half of the circular tour mainly cycles through meadows and fields. But that's precisely what makes the Lower Rhine Castles & Palaces Route so diverse: https://www.netreisetagebuch.de/burgen-und-schloesser-route/
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Xanten?
There are nearly 200 touring cycling routes around Xanten, offering a wide range of options for cyclists. These include 112 easy routes, 77 moderate routes, and 6 more challenging options.
What is the general terrain like for touring cycling in Xanten?
Xanten is characterized by its predominantly flat terrain, making it an excellent destination for touring cyclists. The routes often follow the shores of the Xanten South and North Lakes and traverse the expansive Lower Rhine Floodplain, providing easy and enjoyable rides with minimal elevation changes.
Are there family-friendly cycling routes in Xanten?
Yes, Xanten offers many family-friendly cycling routes, largely due to its flat and well-maintained paths. Routes like the Xantener Nordsee – View of the Xantener Nordsee loop from Xanten are easy and suitable for all ages, utilizing paved and hardened cycling paths.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see along the cycling routes?
The touring cycling routes in Xanten are rich in natural beauty. You'll encounter diverse landscapes featuring rivers, forests, and prominent lakes like the Xanten North Sea and Xanten South Lake. Many routes also pass through the scenic Lower Rhine Floodplain and areas like the Bislicher Insel Nature Reserve, offering opportunities to observe local wildlife.
Are there any circular cycling routes around Xanten?
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Xanten are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Xanten South Lake – Marina at Xantener Nordsee loop from Xanten, which circles the lake, and the Gravel path along the Niers River – Niers River Path loop from Xanten.
What historical or cultural attractions can I explore while cycling in Xanten?
Xanten is steeped in history. Cyclists can visit the Archaeological Park Xanten, one of the largest open-air museums, to see Roman reconstructions. The historic town center, with its market square and the impressive Xanten Cathedral (St. Viktor Dom), also offers cultural stops. Routes like the Roman-Lippe-Route connect to broader historical networks.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Xanten?
The touring cycling routes in Xanten are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 3,300 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful lake views, and the overall relaxed atmosphere for touring.
Are there any challenging routes for experienced touring cyclists?
While Xanten is known for its flat terrain, there are a few routes that offer a bit more challenge. The region features 6 routes classified as difficult, providing longer distances or slightly more varied surfaces for those seeking a more demanding ride.
Can I access Xanten's cycling routes using public transport?
Xanten is well-connected, and public transport options are available to reach the town, from where many cycling routes begin. It's advisable to check local train or bus services for their bicycle carriage policies before planning your trip.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Xanten?
The spring, summer, and early autumn months generally offer the best conditions for touring cycling in Xanten. During these seasons, the weather is mild, and the natural landscapes around the lakes and rivers are at their most vibrant, enhancing the cycling experience.
Are there places to stop for refreshments or food along the routes?
Yes, many routes, especially those around the Xanten South and North Lakes, feature gastronomic stops at the lake harbors. The charming villages along the Lower Rhine Floodplain also offer opportunities to find cafes and pubs for refreshments.
Which route offers views of the Xanten North Lake?
The Xantener Nordsee – View of the Xantener Nordsee loop from Xanten is an excellent choice for views of the Xanten North Lake. This easy 18.8 km route takes about 1 hour 10 minutes to complete and offers picturesque scenery of the lake.
Most popular routes around Xanten
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