[D7] Pilgerroute NRW Self-Guided: Stages, Accommodations & Map 2026
The Pilgerroute NRW (D7) cuts straight across Nordrhein-Westfalen: from the Dutch border near Sittard to the Ostwestfälischer Hellweg. It roughly follows the 51.5th parallel, linking west and east in one continuous line.
The D7 Pilgrims’ Route (Pilgerroute NRW) is 525.8 km long and links the Dutch border near Sittard in the west with the Ostwestfälischer Hellweg in the east. You’re roughly tracking the 51.5th parallel straight across Nordrhein-Westfalen — more of a cross-state traverse than a classic riverside cycle route. What makes it different is that clean west-to-east line. You get NRW as one continuous strip rather than a bunch of separate regions, switching between more built-up stretches and quieter, more open sections. That’s handy for planning, because you can split the route into chunks and pick “more city” or “more peace and quiet” depending on what you’re after. For beginners and families, the main issue is the total distance: as a full end-to-end ride you’ll need time and patience, but as a weekend or holiday section it works much better — and with an e-bike, daily planning gets a lot more relaxed. Planning your own cycling trip? Use the D7 as a flexible backbone and build your own cross-NRW ride.
Route Profile
| Distance | 526 km |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Best Season | Spring, Summer, Autumn |
| Signage | unknown |
| Suitable For | Recreational cyclists, Experienced cyclists, E-bike |
| Surface | Mixed |
[D7] Pilgerroute NRW Map
BikeTouri Tip: View the complete route on a map in BikeTouri – with all accommodations and supply points. Also available offline.
The Most Beautiful Section on the [D7] Pilgerroute NRW
The D7 is at its best where you really feel the west-to-east crossing: right after the start at the Dutch border near Sittard and into NRW, when the “border zone” slowly turns into “inland”. That opening makes the character of the route obvious: it’s not a loop — it’s a committed ride straight through. Highlight: that moment when it clicks that you’re riding NRW as one long axis — using the 51.5th parallel as your guide, with the clear sense that every day you’re pushing further east.
Highlights on the [D7] Pilgerroute NRW
- Start at the Dutch border near Sittard.
- A west–east crossing of Nordrhein-Westfalen over a total of 525.8 km.
- Using the line of the 51.5th parallel as a simple thread to follow.
- Finish on the Ostwestfälischer Hellweg.
Accommodations on the [D7] Pilgerroute NRW
Along the [D7] Pilgerroute NRW you'll find numerous accommodation options – from hotels and guesthouses to campsites and small tent meadows.
Campsites & Tent Options
Along the [D7] Pilgerroute NRW there are numerous places to camp – from large campsites to small tent meadows on farms. Campsites usually don't need to be booked in advance.
Hotels & Guesthouses
Numerous accommodations along the route – from hostels and guesthouses to hotels. Important for cycle tourists: secure bike storage and no minimum stay requirements.
BikeTouri Tip: BikeTouri shows you all accommodations along the route – with prices, amenities, and reviews from cycle tourists. Also available offline.
Planning Your [D7] Pilgerroute NRW Trip
What should you book in advance?
During peak season (June-August), it's recommended to book accommodations in popular stops 1-2 days ahead. Outside peak season, spontaneous booking is usually possible.
What can you decide spontaneously?
Daily distances, rest stops, restaurant visits, and detours to attractions can all be decided on the day based on weather and how you're feeling.
Typical daily costs
Practical Information
Getting There & Away
The route is well connected by train at both start and end points. Most regional trains accept bicycles, though reservations may be required during peak season.
Shopping Along the Way
Supermarkets and grocery stores can be found in most towns along the route. Plan for longer stretches in rural areas where shops may be limited.
Bike Shops & Repairs
Bicycle repair shops are available in larger towns. Carry basic tools and a spare tube for emergencies between service points.
More Information
Conclusion
The D7 Pilgrims’ Route is a long cross-NRW ride from the border near Sittard to the Ostwestfälischer Hellweg, with a clear west–east logic over 525.8 km. Its strength is the simple idea of following the 51.5th parallel; its weakness is the sheer length if you’re new to this. It works best as a pick-and-mix route for shorter sections, rather than trying to force the whole thing in one go.
Why BikeTouri?
We don't just show the big campsites – but also small tent meadows, farms, and cyclist-friendly guesthouses. With prices, reviews from cycle tourists, and offline maps.