The best gravel rides around Emmerich am Rhein
4.4
(106)
1,276
riders
83
rides
Gravel biking around Emmerich am Rhein features a landscape characterized by the Rhine River and its extensive floodplains, offering a mix of flat to gently rolling terrain. The region includes unpaved farm roads, forest paths, and sections along the riverbanks, providing varied surfaces for gravel bikes. Natural features such as the Emmericher Ward nature reserve and the small hill of Eltenberg contribute to the diverse environment. This area, part of the Lower Rhine, is known for its abundant forests and waterside stretches, ideal for cycling.
Best gravel bike trails around Emmerich am Rhein
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Gaardepad behind castle – Bridge over the Oude IJssel loop from Emmerich-Elten, a 56.7 miles (91.2 km) trail that takes 4 hours 54 minutes to complete. This difficult route passes by historical sites and follows the Oude IJssel river.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Blick auf Oud Zeevenar – Eltenseweg Forest Path loop from Zevenaar, a difficult 35.0 miles (56.4 km) path. This route features varied terrain with moderate elevation gains.
- Local gravel bikers also love the Grafelijke Korenmolen Zeddam – Blick auf Oud Zeevenar loop from Emmerich, a 40.8 miles (65.6 km) trail leading through rural landscapes with views towards Oud Zeevenar, often completed in about 3 hours 49 minutes.
- Gravel biking around Emmerich am Rhein is defined by the Rhine River, its floodplains, and the small hill of Eltenberg. The network offers options for different ability levels, from flat riverside paths to routes with moderate elevation gains.
- The routes in Emmerich am Rhein are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 150 reviews. More than 1700 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Emmerich am Rhein's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
5.0
(1)
25
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
23
riders
67.1km
03:55
220m
220m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(1)
14
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
14
riders
42.6km
02:22
40m
40m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
6
riders
51.9km
02:50
80m
80m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
It is likely that Saint Martin or one of his successors had a church built in this area. The present late Gothic church building dates from the period 1300 to 1350. Oud-Zevenaar was once a place of pilgrimage. Many miracles are said to have occurred at the statue of Our Lady of Sorrows, which was placed in the church in 1440 and stolen in 1975. A replica is now in the church. The stained-glass windows, depicting the Seven Sorrows of Mary, were created in 1931 by the stained-glass artist Joep Nicolas. Next to the main entrance is a stone indicating a height of 15.25 cm above sea level (NAP).
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This beautiful wooden arched bridge connects Gendringen/NL with Voorst/NL and its lovely heathland. North of the bridge, the river is called the "Oude IJssel" and belongs to the Netherlands, while to the south, the same river is called the "Issel." South of the bridge, the border runs down the middle of the river (W=NL and O=DE). The pedestrian and cycle path is on the Dutch side.
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This castle is a must see.
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The name Slangenburg has nothing to do with snakes, but with the Slingebeek stream that meanders through the landscape here. It was once called the "Slingeburcht," but over time, this was corrupted to Slangenburg. Thus, the estate bears the name of the stream that has been winding its way through here for centuries.
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The church's origins date back to the 10th century. It was built as a simple wooden structure at the beginning of the 10th century northeast of the then existing castle complex. In 967, the castle was converted into a free-noble women's convent. The Elten women's convent developed into an imperial foundation and thus also became a secular dominion, or rather, an independent small state with a secular bailiff. The wooden church was replaced by a three-aisled basilica. In 970, it was consecrated to St. Salvator and St. Vitus, but three years later, only the latter was listed as the patron saint. North of the church, convent buildings with a cloister were built. The chronology is based on pottery, which is discussed in detail by Janssen. Some burials northeast of the church date from as early as the 10th/11th centuries.
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A truly beautiful vantage point with a view toward Emmerich. There's a small hiking trail (around the church) leading here, but if there aren't many visitors, you can also ride or push your bike.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available in Emmerich am Rhein?
There are over 125 gravel bike trails around Emmerich am Rhein. The region offers a diverse range of routes, from flat riverside paths to trails with moderate elevation gains, catering to various skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails around Emmerich am Rhein?
The terrain around Emmerich am Rhein is generally flat to gently rolling, characterized by the Rhine River and its extensive floodplains. You'll encounter a mix of unpaved farm roads, forest paths, and sections along the riverbanks. The small hill of Eltenberg also adds some varied topography to certain routes.
Are there gravel routes suitable for beginners or those looking for an easier ride?
Yes, the Emmerich am Rhein area offers over 20 easy gravel biking routes. These typically feature flatter sections, often along the river or through open landscapes, making them ideal for a relaxed ride.
What are some more challenging gravel biking options in the Emmerich am Rhein area?
For those seeking a challenge, there are over 30 difficult gravel routes. An example is the Bergherbos Mountain Bike Trail – Grafelijke Korenmolen Zeddam loop from 's-Heerenberg, which is a 45.4 km trail with varied terrain and some elevation gain.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails in Emmerich am Rhein?
The gravel biking routes in Emmerich am Rhein are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 190 reviews. Many users praise the diverse landscapes, the well-maintained paths, and the scenic views along the Rhine and through the natural areas.
Are there scenic viewpoints or natural features to see along the gravel routes?
Absolutely. Many routes offer picturesque views of the Rhine River. You can also explore natural features like the Millingerwaard – pure nature or the Millingerwaard Nature Reserve. The small mountain of Eltenberg provides panoramic views of the Rhine valley, and you might even spot the Flevopost Lookout in Millingerwaard.
Can I combine gravel biking with visiting cultural or historical sites?
Yes, some routes pass by historical points of interest. For instance, the Gaardepad behind castle – Bridge over the Oude IJssel loop from Emmerich-Elten takes you past historical sites. The town of Emmerich am Rhein itself features historic buildings and the 17th-century Borghees Castle.
Are there any wildlife or nature reserves accessible by gravel bike?
The region is rich in natural areas. The Emmericher Ward is a significant nature reserve with alluvial forests and diverse habitats. You can also find the Millingerwaard Nature Reserve nearby. The Anholter Schweiz Biotope Wildlife Park is also accessible via a short cycling route from Emmerich am Rhein.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes in the region?
Many of the gravel routes around Emmerich am Rhein are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the Grafelijke Korenmolen Zeddam – Blick auf Oud Zeevenar loop from Emmerich, which offers a scenic ride through rural landscapes.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Emmerich am Rhein?
The mild spring and summer months are generally ideal for gravel biking in Emmerich am Rhein, offering pleasant weather for outdoor activities. However, the flat to gently rolling terrain and abundant forests also make for enjoyable rides during autumn, with colorful foliage.
Are there options for longer distance gravel bike tours that cross borders?
Given Emmerich am Rhein's proximity to the Dutch border, there are indeed possibilities for cross-border cycling adventures. Some routes extend into the Netherlands, allowing for longer tours and exploration of areas like the Bergherbos Nature Reserve.
Are there any routes that follow rivers or canals?
Yes, the Rhine River is a defining feature of the region, and many gravel routes run along its banks, offering picturesque waterside cycling. The Gaardepad behind castle – Bridge over the Oude IJssel loop from Emmerich-Elten also follows the Oude IJssel river for a significant portion.
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