Things to do in Gennep

Yes, Gennep is great for children who love being outdoors, going boating or discovering new things along the way. Hop into a canoe or on a stand-up paddleboard on the River Niers with Kanook.nu, stroll through the town centre past the Martinus Tower and the Zandpoort Monument, or visit ‘1641 – Experience the Siege’ at the Genneper Huys. Picking up an ice cream in Ottersum at Heldro or taking a short walk through the Voorhoevepark along the Duits Lijntje also fits in perfectly with a lovely day out with the family.

What you really shouldn’t miss in Gennep depends on how you choose to explore. Walkers will be in their element on the Pieterpad, in the Niers Valley and heading towards the Reichswald in Germany, where peaceful paths, woods and changes in elevation alternate. Cyclists can follow the Meuse along the ‘Duits Lijntje’ route, passing through villages, alongside water and across open countryside. The Maas & UNESCO Maasheggen cycle route is a particular favourite.

For nature lovers, the Koningven, the Niers Valley and the Maasheggen landscape are well worth a visit. You’ll see just how varied Gennep is: from stream valleys and riverbanks to woods, fields and panoramic views. Those who prefer to take to the water can hop into a canoe on the Niers.

History is also close at hand here. In the fortified town, you can stroll past the Martinus Tower, the old fortification walls, the Zandpoort Monument and the Genneper Huys. Book a guided city walk with the much-loved city guide Arie (or one of his friendly colleagues) to discover all the stories. The Liberation Route in Gennep tells the story of war and liberation, with the Martinus Tower as a landmark. For culture, be sure to visit Museum Het Petershuis, the Voorhoevepark or the Aurora Malt House.

Walking in Gennep takes you through the fortified town, the stream valley and the woods. The Pieterpad runs right through the municipality: stage 18, Groesbeek–Gennep, ends here, and stage 19, Gennep–Vierlingsbeek, sets off again from the centre of Gennep. Along the way, you’ll pass the Maas, the Niers and the Genneper Huys. Prefer a shorter walk? Then opt for the Niers Valley, the Looierheide or a route along the Duits Lijntje. Around the Reichswald and Koningven, the landscape becomes more undulating and greener, with paths that feel just a little more adventurous.