Lovenich, Arsbeek, Ratheim

Cycle along the edge of National Park De Meinweg, a beautiful nature reserve that stretches across the Dutch border and also enriches Germany with a unique terraced landscape with steep transitions. The terraces were created by erosion of the Maas and shifts in the earth's crust. Two streams flow right through the terraces, draining the water from the upper plateau. Idyllic forests, vast heaths and romantic fens and stream valleys predominate here. It is therefore an extremely varied landscape where you can feast your eyes. What makes De Meinweg extra special is that it is the only place in the Netherlands where the adder still occurs. The route starts in Lovenich, at the parking lot for Profile Zweirad-Schmiede"Der Fahrradspezialist\\\". You can have your bike checked for defects and while minor repairs are being carried out, you can visit the Kriegsgraberstatte German war cemetery in Lovenich. 441 German soldiers who died in the Second World War are buried here. When you pick up your bicycle, you will receive a 10 euro discount on your maintenance service on presentation of your bicycle discount pass. Then you set course for the city of Wassenberg, which forms the gateway to De Meinweg National Park. Historical structures are well preserved. For example, old city walls surround the city, and narrow streets with beautiful buildings lead to other imposing buildings, such as a beautiful castle. There is plenty to do in Wassenberg and beautiful gardens and parks are proof that Wassenberg is a member of the European Garden Heritage Network. Many fun events are organized in the summer and in the winter the stalls of the Advent and Christmas markets are very pleasant to stroll along.