4.5
(13363)
70,172
riders
1,700
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around NSG Emsaue are characterized by a predominantly flat riverine landscape, shaped by the Ems River. The region features a mix of riparian forests, wet grasslands, and oxbow lakes, providing a diverse natural setting for cycling. River-accompanying dunes and renatured sections of the Ems contribute to the varied terrain, offering generally easy gradients suitable for touring cyclists. This extensive protected area provides a network of dedicated cycle paths, often paved, that follow the Ems River.
…Last updated: July 12, 2026
4.7
(210)
638
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(87)
349
riders
42.3km
02:43
120m
120m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.6
(54)
186
riders
43.2km
02:33
90m
90m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(34)
122
riders
31.0km
01:52
80m
80m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(21)
97
riders
32.2km
02:00
80m
80m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around NSG Emsaue
100 Castles Route – Discover the historical treasures of Münsterland by bike
Hase Ems route — cycling through Hasetal and Emsland in 7 stages
Following Germany’s Hase and Ems rivers – Hase-Ems-Tour
Romantic Münsterland – short trips to castles and palaces
Let's go: on foot in Emsdetten
Hase Ems Tour bis Osnabrück
Entlang von Flüssen, Seen und Kanälen im Fahrradparadies Münsterland

Traffic-free bike rides around NSG Emsaue

Traffic-free bike rides around NSG Emsaue
In 2014, an extensive barefoot path of around one kilometer in length was newly created and enjoys great popularity among the park's numerous guests. In addition to various ground surfaces such as mulch, sand, gravel, peat, and pebbles, the path also offers the opportunity to wade through water on a section. A welcome refreshment on hot summer days!
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For children, the park is an absolute highlight. The large adventure playground offers space for climbing and romping, while the mini-golf course right next to it challenges the skills of young and old alike. 🛝⛳
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🚲🌳✨ The Emsdetten city park is the green soul of the city and a place where history, culture, and nature come together wonderfully. Located right on the edge of the city center, this extensive park offers much more than just lawns – it is the cultural living room for all Emsdetten residents and visitors.
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The floodplain is a mosaic of old water channels, wet meadows, reed beds, and remnants of riparian forests. In the quiet floodplains, with a bit of luck, you can find the rare great crested newt or the graceful water plantain. For migratory birds like the greenshank or the common sandpiper, this area is an indispensable "filling station" on their journeys. 🦆🌸
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Between Rheine-Mesum and Elte, you will experience a river landscape with eroding and depositing banks. While the water erodes sand and earth at the eroding banks, forming steep edges, shallow sandbanks are created at the depositing banks. This dynamic is the perfect habitat for the shimmering kingfisher and the agile sand martins, which breed in the steep slopes. 🐦🌊
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🚲✨ The Emsaue nature reserve near Elte is a paradise for nature lovers and one of the most ecologically valuable sections of Germany's smallest river. Here, the Ems can still be, in large parts, as nature intended it – a living river that constantly reshapes its surroundings.
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Here you have a great view over the Grafenstein lakes.
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History: The only written mention of Ascheberg Castle is in the form of a chronological note inserted into the memorial book of the Steinfurt Johanniter Commandery, dating from around 1450. According to this, the complex was destroyed in 1164 by the Archbishop of Cologne, Rainald von Dassel, in a feud between the Lords of Steinfurt, who were related to him, and the Lords of Ascheberg. In the inventory of possessions from 1206, compiled by Odelhildis, noblewoman of Ascheberg, the complex is no longer mentioned. (Stefan Eismann) The info is from EBIDAT More information can be found here: https://www.alleburgen.de/bd.php?id=20599 https://www.ebidat.de/cgi-bin/ebidat.pl?id=3323
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There are over 1600 no-traffic touring cycling routes available in NSG Emsaue. These routes cater to various skill levels, with more than 1100 classified as easy, around 480 as moderate, and a smaller selection of 74 more difficult options.
The NSG Emsaue is characterized by a generally flat and picturesque riverine landscape, making it ideal for touring cycling. You'll primarily encounter well-maintained, often asphalted paths that traverse diverse environments, including riparian forests, wet grasslands, and areas with oxbow lakes. Some routes may also pass through unique sand dune areas like the Bockholter Berge and Elter Sand, which feature heath remnants.
The NSG Emsaue is enjoyable for touring cycling throughout the warmer months, typically from spring to early autumn. During this period, the weather is generally mild, and the natural landscapes are at their most vibrant. Spring offers blooming wildflowers, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. The flat terrain makes it accessible even in slightly cooler conditions, but always check local weather forecasts.
Yes, the NSG Emsaue is exceptionally well-suited for beginners and families. The region's generally flat terrain and extensive network of dedicated cycle paths mean many routes are incline-free and easy to navigate. Over 1100 of the available routes are classified as easy, providing plenty of options for a relaxed and enjoyable family outing. For example, the Ems River in Salzbergen – Bentlage Monastery loop from Rheine is an easy 25 km route.
The NSG Emsaue is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 12,400 ratings. Cyclists frequently praise the serene river landscapes, the diverse ecosystems, and the accessible, well-maintained cycling paths that are largely free from traffic. The opportunity to experience the renatured Ems up close and connect with charming historic towns is also a highlight for many.
The no-traffic routes in NSG Emsaue offer a wealth of natural beauty and interesting landmarks. You can explore remnants of riparian forests, observe oxbow lakes and flood channels, and even encounter unique river-accompanying dunes. Notable natural highlights include the Anima Foresta Pond in Elter Dünen Nature Reserve, the Sternbusch Beech Grove, and various ancient or fallen trees like the Fallen Oak Tree in NSG Emsaue. The Ems River itself in Rheine is a central feature.
Yes, many no-traffic cycling routes in NSG Emsaue connect to charming historic towns and cultural sites. You can visit towns like Warendorf, known for its state stud farm, or Telgte. Routes often pass by significant landmarks such as Bentlage Monastery, which is featured on the Ems River in Salzbergen – Bentlage Monastery loop. Other towns like Rheine and Lingen also offer historic market squares and attractions worth exploring.
Yes, many of the no-traffic touring routes in NSG Emsaue are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end your journey at the same point. This is convenient for those using personal vehicles for transport. Examples include the Torfmoor Lake loop from Rheine and the Old Town Burgsteinfurt – Steinfurt Castle loop from Emsdetten.
While many outdoor areas in Germany are dog-friendly, specific rules for nature reserves like NSG Emsaue can vary. It's generally recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in protected areas, to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other cyclists and pedestrians. Always check local signage for specific regulations regarding dogs on trails within the nature reserve.
Given the popularity of cycling in the NSG Emsaue, you can typically find designated parking areas in or near the starting points of many routes, especially in towns like Rheine, Greven, or Emsdetten. Many routes are designed to be accessible from urban centers, often with public parking facilities available. Look for parking options near popular trailheads or local attractions.
Yes, the NSG Emsaue region is well-equipped for touring cyclists. Many routes pass through or near charming towns and villages where you can find cafes, restaurants, and pubs. Additionally, popular cycling paths like the Ems Cycle Path often have refreshment stops catering specifically to cyclists. It's always a good idea to check the route details on komoot for specific points of interest and amenities along your chosen tour.
The NSG Emsaue is generally well-connected by public transport, particularly trains and buses, which can take you to towns like Rheine, Greven, or Emsdetten. From these towns, you can often directly access the cycling network. Many regional trains allow bicycles, though restrictions or additional tickets may apply during peak hours. It's advisable to check the local public transport provider's website for specific routes and bicycle carriage policies.


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