Nijmegen to ’s-Hertogenbosch

Cold Rain, Warm Hearts

A rainy, chilly ride from Nijmegen to Den Bosch, but one full of quiet beauty and small surprises. We passed through farmland dotted with goats, alpacas, and one very wet little donkey, with peaceful, tree-lined paths nearly to ourselves. A kind couple stopped us at a train crossing and offered us shelter and coffee—a reminder of how generous strangers can be. We visited a village church still alive with community life, and made lunch from Lidl provisions thanks to a helpful employee. Despite the weather, our gear kept us warm and dry, and we both genuinely enjoyed the ride—ending the day with savory pasties from a town square vendor and a hot shower in a very comfortable hotel.

Planned Route

Actual Route

Kronenburgerpark

West side of Nijmegen, just as we were starting our ride to Den Bosch. The old tower behind us is part of the city’s medieval defenses, a reminder of Nijmegen’s long history. The park was quiet and damp from the rain, but we were loaded up, layered against the weather, and ready for the day ahead.

Rain & Wind

This windmill stands just outside Wijchen, a small town we passed through on our ride from Nijmegen to Den Bosch. It sat high on a grassy rise, classic Dutch silhouette against a gray sky. Even on a rainy day, it was striking—an iconic scene that reminded us we were deep in the Netherlands.

Smiling in the Rain

Somewhere along the day’s ride, surrounded by spring greens and a ribbon of yellow wildflowers, bundled up and pushing through the steady rain. Not much traffic, just quiet paths and the sound of wet tires on pavement. A good reminder that even on gray days, riding is still pretty great.

Rainy Day Solitude

Beautiful pathways like this one made up much of the day—tree-lined, quiet, and surrounded by farmland just starting to green up. The agricultural setting added to the sense of calm. Because of the rain, there were very few other riders out. It was incredibly peaceful.

Easter Stillness in a Village Church

This village church was open and welcoming, a quiet break from the rain. The red and white ribbons flowing from the ceiling were part of the Easter decorations, and beside the altar, a statue of Jesus on a donkey rested on a cart, ready for procession. Along the walls, stunning portraits paired young and old members of local guilds—each in ceremonial robes. It felt like a church still very much at the heart of its community.