Water & history – 6 days on the Römer‑Lippe Route

On the six stages of the Römer-Lippe-Route, you will cover around 190 miles (300 kilometers) as you explore the beautiful floodplain landscape around the Lippe. As you go, you'll cycle alongside charming canals and discover the traces of the Roman legionaries who walked this route millennia before you. And if history isn't your thing, you can rule out any museum visits and simply enjoy the beautiful nature you're about to cycle past — the choice is yours.

But now a few facts: During the reign of Emperor Augustus, the Roman troops made numerous advances to Germania in order to conquer the area and declare it a Roman province. The river Lippe was used by boats and barges in order to transport troops and supplies more quickly. Only in the year 9 AD Arminius, also known as Hermann, put an end to these plans of conquest during the Battle of Varus in the Teutoburg Forest. The Roman-Lippe Route takes you and your bicycle from Hermannsdenkmal near Detmold along the course of the Lippe to the Rhine and the archaeological Roman Park in Xanten.

Only on the first stage, which runs through the foothills of the Teutoburg Forest, few hilly sections await you. Aside from these, you'll be comfortably cycling over flat terrain the whole way. Along the route, you will visit small towns and tranquil villages; place that perfectly combine archeology and tranquility into one picturesque experience. The Roman Museum in Haltern, the Roman Park in Bergkamen-Oberaden and the magnificent Archaeological Park in Xanten are the noteworthy Highlights for all Roman enthusiasts.

Regarding finding a place to rest after a day in the saddle, you'll find numerous accommodation options in each of the route's stage destination. You'll also encounter many cafes, inns, and restaurants where you can reward yourself with a relaxing break. What's more, as all the destinations can be reached easily by train, you can put together your own personal multi-day ride on the Römer-Lippe Route or even just go for a simple day trip and take the train home afterward.

If you can't get enough of the Römer-Lippe-Route, then the eleven thematic loops visible at roemerlipperoute.de are a hot tip for you. The side trips will take you off the route to other Roman remains and beautiful rivers, streams and springs.