Venlo, Maasbree, Panningen

Beautifully situated along the Maas, Venlo had everything it needed to become an important Hanseatic city. Trade was already flourishing in the Middle Ages, making Venlo at least as significant as Cologne. Still, it was not until 1481 that Venlo officially joined the Hanseatic League. You cycle past the lively city harbour, many characteristic buildings and an impressive basilica. The Romerhuis and the Town Hall are the oldest buildings in the city, both dating back to the Middle Ages.

Follow the Maas into the rural outskirts of Venlo. Charming villages such as Maasbree and Panningen pass by along the way. In between, you find yourself surrounded by beautiful nature and open farmland. Via the Heldense Bossen, you cycle towards the castle village of Baarlo. This small village is home to no fewer than four castles. The historic buildings set within the quiet rural surroundings make Baarlo a popular destination for visitors.

A ferry takes you from Baarlo across the Maas to Steyl. With its five monasteries, Steyl is also known as the Monastery Village. Here you can visit, among other things, the botanical garden of monastery De Jochumhof or the Mission House of Saint Michael.

By now you are back to the south of Venlo, but we do not head straight back into the city just yet. First, we cycle towards the German border to enjoy the farmland and forests just outside the city. Via the eastern side of Venlo, you return to the historic city centre.

Parking tip: If you arrive by car, you can easily park at the P+R Van Laerstraat near Blerick railway station. From here, you can quickly reach junction 11.