North Sea Cycle Route Stage 01 - Bad Nieuweschans to Emden

The first stage of the North Sea Cycle Route begins in the Dutch border town of Bad Nieuweschans. The route leads from here across the Dutch/German border and then inland passing the towns of Bunde and Weener. The four-storey gallery windmill, the Bunder Mühle, is worth admiring in Bunde. A stop at the historic harbour and St. George's Church in Weener is not to be missed. Leaving Weener, the cycle route follows the Ems downstream towards the North Sea coast.

The town of Leer becomes visible on the opposite bank of the Ems after the 21st kilometre of the route. The so-called "gateway to East Frisia" is perfect for a short or long stopover. You will need to make a small detour across the Ems for this. The signposted route then continues via Bingum, the only district of Leer located west of the Ems. The district is connected to the other parts of the town across the Jann-Berghaus Bridge. The bascule bridge is one of the largest in Central Europe. The next point to cross is Jemgum with its active water sports harbour. The journey continues towards Pogum and the Dollart bay. The route leads across the Ems and through the "Petkumer Deichvorland" nature reserve.

The stage ends in the seaport of Emden. It's worth taking a tour of the city on your own accord. There is a city tour guided by QR code that includes a total of 18 sights. One of the stops also looks at the history of Emden's herring fishing industry. Matjes, which is a regional speciality of soused herring, is not to be missed here. The Emden Matjestage festival is held every year in its honour.