Cycling day trip from Kleve to Nijmegen

Roll out from Kleve, a charming Lower Rhine town crowned by the Schwanenburg (Swan Castle) and historic gardens, and head west toward the Netherlands. This cross-border ride is about 26 km and mostly on dedicated cycleways and smooth paths, with a dash of quiet roads. Expect predominantly paved surfaces (asphalt and concrete), with a few stretches of paving stones through villages.

The terrain is friendly: gentle rollers with a couple of short climbs as you approach the moraine east of Nijmegen, adding up to roughly 166 m of ascent and descent—enough for views, not enough to bite. Crossing the border is seamless; wayfinding is straightforward and bike infrastructure stays excellent on both sides.

You’ll finish in Nijmegen, often called the oldest city in the Netherlands, set on the River Waal and known for its Roman roots, lively café scene, and big cycling culture (hello, Four Days Marches). Plan 1.5–2 hours at a relaxed pace, plus time for a coffee at the end.