The EmsRadweg follows the Ems from its springs near Hövelhof towards the North Sea at Emden. The route brings together heathland, river meadows, historic towns and a working maritime landscape. The Interessengemeinschaft EmsRadweg, a partnership of regions along the river, provides the official route information.
From the springs into Westphalia
The official starting point is the Ems-Infozentrum in Hövelhof, close to the springs between Hövelhof and Schloß Holte-Stukenbrock. Here the Senne landscape is shaped by sandy ground, pine trees and open heath. The information centre is a useful place to begin understanding the river and its surroundings.
The early journey takes in Rietberg, Rheda-Wiedenbrück and Harsewinkel before continuing towards Warendorf and Telgte. Teutoburger Wald Tourismus highlights Rietberg's historic centre, Flora-Westfalica-Park and Marienfeld Abbey among the places to explore along this part of the route.
Following the Ems north
Beyond Telgte, the itinerary passes places including Greven, Emsdetten and Rheine, then continues through Emsland via Lingen, Meppen, Haren and Papenburg. The final part reaches Leer and Ditzum before ending at Emden's outer harbour, opposite the Borkumkai.
The river is not always in sight: protected habitats sometimes take the route away from the bank, and bridges allow it to change sides. Fields, meadows and woodland alternate with settlements. Farther north, riders may see commercial vessels on the Ems and sections running beside dykes.
Choosing a bike and planning stops
The route has no significant climbs and is marked in both directions. Much of it uses paved agricultural lanes, but protected areas generally have unsealed surfaces and there are woodland paths too. The route partnership recommends ordinary touring bikes or pedelecs and advises against narrow-tyred road bikes.
Benches, rest places and viewpoints offer opportunities to pause, while towns along the way provide places to eat. The official route page points to its trip planner for arranging stages and notes that stations along the corridor make it possible to begin or finish at other towns.
Check the lower-river diversions
Allow flexibility around Weener and the Friesenbrücke. Emsland Tourismus lists restricted cycling access to the bridge and a signed diversion between Papenburg and Leer. Conditions can change, so consult the route's current diversion information and signs on the ground before travelling.
The EmsRadweg partnership also publishes a tour planner with information on accommodation, the route and attractions. It is a useful companion when deciding which towns merit longer stops.