NOK-Route Self-Guided: Stages, Accommodations & Map 2026
The NOK-Route links Brunsbüttel with Kiel and follows the Nord-Ostsee-Kanal the whole way. You’ll pass through places like Rendsburg and finish at the lock complex in Kiel-Holtenau. On the way there are plenty of options to switch sides of the canal by ferry, bridge or tunnel.
The NOK-Route is 318,7 km long and takes you along the Nord-Ostsee-Kanal from Brunsbüttel to Kiel. For long stretches you ride right next to the canal – with no real climbs – and you get a constant stream of ships, locks, bridges, ferries, tunnels and regular viewpoints for ship-spotting. What makes it work is the mix of engineering and landscape: first the marshes near Brunsbüttel, then meadows, woods and fields all the way to the Eiderniederung; between Rendsburg and the Holtenauer Schleusen you also get a few gentle hills. Along the way you’ll pass places like Rendsburg, Schacht-Audorf, Sehestedt, Hanerau-Hademarschen or Gettorf/Osdorf. This route suits beginners, families and e-bike riders because it’s mostly flat and the canal has loads of information boards. If you’re planning big days, bear in mind: the paths are mostly concrete. Planning your own cycling trip? Use the NOK-Route as a flexible backbone and build your stages around your time and where you want to stay overnight.
Route Profile
| Distance | 319 km |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Best Season | Spring, Summer, Autumn |
| Signage | Well signposted |
| Suitable For | Families, Beginners, Recreational cyclists, E-bike, With children |
| Surface | Mixed |
NOK-Route 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 NOK-Route
The most varied stretch is between Rendsburg and Kiel-Holtenau: gentle hills start to appear, plus landscape areas like Hüttener Berge and Dänischer Wohld. Highlight: The locks in Kiel-Holtenau make a strong final act, and the viewpoints along the way are great for watching the ships.
Highlights on the NOK-Route
- Lock complex in Brunsbüttel.
- Lock complex in Kiel-Holtenau.
- Viewing platforms along the canal for watching the shipping traffic.
- Hüttener Berge landscape area around the canal.
- Dänischer Wohld landscape area around the canal.
- Rendsburg as the key town right on the route.
Accommodations on the NOK-Route
Along the NOK-Route you'll find numerous accommodation options – from hotels and guesthouses to campsites and small tent meadows.
Campsites & Tent Options
Along the NOK-Route 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 NOK-Route 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
Big plus: hardly any climbing, easy navigation thanks to lots of information boards, and constant variety from locks, bridges and ships. The downside: mostly concrete paths can get uncomfortable on long days, and the scenery swings between strong sections and more plain ones. If you can live with that, you get a very predictable DIY route from Brunsbüttel to Kiel.
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.