Discover Maasdriel: Water, Routes and History

Waterways, walking and cycling routes, and historic sites showcase the different sides of Maasdriel. When planning a stay, you can decide whether you’re mainly looking for time by the water, outdoor activity on the trails, or insights into local history and culture. The routes and attractions offer practical points of reference without requiring your stay to focus on just one theme.

Enjoy the Water and Choose Routes Along the Water

De Zandmeren in Kerkdriel has a beach, a sunbathing lawn, toilets, fishing and swimming opportunities, and places to eat. Facilities and water conditions may change seasonally; check before your visit. A hand-operated ferry provides access to a circular route of about four kilometres around the waterways. As access conditions may change, it’s a good idea to check local notices before setting out.

The artwork “Blote keien” is also located at De Zandmeren: seven distinctive groups of stones tell the story of nature and form part of an art trail for adults and children. At Strandbad Well, on the western edge of the municipality, you can swim and surf. Toilets are available there during the summer months, and there is ample parking. Check current water quality and seasonal facilities.

Walking Routes by Length and Trail Conditions

On the island of Alem, a walking trail of about three kilometres runs between De Steeg and St. Odradastraat. At eleven kilometres, the Baanbrekerpad is considerably longer and leads through the countryside around Ammerzoden and Well. Its landscape includes river ridges, former riverbeds, remnants of earlier dike breaches, and fortifications. The route is not suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs; waterproof, sturdy footwear is recommended. Check current trail conditions before setting out.

Piekenwaard connects to the walking trail from Alem. Gates, stiles, signposts, a staircase in the dike, and fencing have been installed there for walkers; the parking areas have also been improved. Access and infrastructure may change. Zandslagenpad is another walking route. Rossum Castle stood in Slingerbos from the 13th century; today, the area is home primarily to a variety of plant and animal species. No route length is specified for this trail.

Cycling Routes of Different Lengths

The Bommelse dijken cycling route starts at the De Zandmeren recreation area, is 72 kilometres long, and follows the dikes through the Bommelerwaard. The 56-kilometre Bommelerwaardse Veerpontjesroute starts at Van Gent Watersport. It includes ferry crossings and passes through Ammerzoden and by the old Fort Sint Andries. The distances help you compare the scope of the two routes; their described itineraries focus on different features, namely dikes and ferries.

Architecture, Museums and Local History

Slot Rossum, also known locally as “the castle”, is located in the centre of Rossum. Battlements, Gothic-style windows, and a moat define its eclectic style. Behind the castle, a path leads through Slingerbos to the dike, with views over the Waal. The Ruïnekerk in Ammerzoden has been a ruin since the 17th century. It sits in a natural setting surrounded by tall trees; its elevated position served as a refuge during floods.

The Historisch Museum Hedel is housed in Hedel’s former town hall, a building dating from 1883. Its collection includes finds from the time of the first settlement of old Hatalle, also known as Hedilla; archaeological finds from the excavated remains of Hedel’s former castle; and historical prints, topographical maps, coins, and coin dies. At the Driels Museum, five authentic displays—including a school, a mayor’s office, a shop, and a kitchen—illustrate everyday life in the past; hundreds of objects are also on view. The reconstructed grocer’s shop display uses the shop fittings of Gebr. De Gier on Maasbanddijk, opposite the ferry house. Check the museums’ opening arrangements before you travel.

The stork centre in Rossum has around 20 nests, remains active, and takes part in activities including STORK’s annual stork count. The number and activity of the birds may vary from year to year. Together with the walking routes, museums, and waterside attractions, this gives you a choice of different themes to consider when planning your trip.

Discover more destinations: Rossum, Hurwenen, Kerkdriel, Ammerzoden, Hedel, Alem, Well, Heerewaarden

Go to the main travel overview: Gelderland.