Kesteren can be explored through several clearly distinct themes: the winding Rijnbandijk, routes with ferry or cycling sections, historic buildings and fruit growing. This mix can be useful when choosing where to stay: depending on your interests, outdoor activity, local history or regional produce can take centre stage.

On Foot or by Bike

The Marspad crosses the Nederrijn by ferry and then loops back to its starting point in Kesteren. The ferry crossing is a defining feature of the route, but its operation may vary seasonally. So check the timetable before setting out. Public transport options include the Dorpshuis bus stop in Kesteren and the Kesteren and Rhenen railway stations. You should also check the connections before travelling.

Those who would rather plan a cycling route can choose the western loop of the Laanboomroute Betuwe, a route with a specified distance: it is 28 kilometres long, starts at junction 93 in Kesteren and ends there. The route passes tree nurseries. Visitors can learn more about tree growing by cycling the route or attending open days at nurseries; check open-day dates separately.

The two routes have different focuses: the Marspad includes a ferry crossing, while the length of the Laanboomroute loop is explicitly given. This helps you choose between a route that crosses the river and a cycling route with a named start and finish. Route and transport information can thus be factored into your plans without turning the two routes into a single itinerary.

Buildings and History

Kesteren railway station complex was built between 1885 and 1890. It includes a former ticket office and a former stationmaster’s house. The complex is also the only double station building designed by M.A. van Wadenooijen. Alongside its church history, Kesteren therefore has a distinct aspect of railway architecture.

The Hervormde Kerk was first mentioned in written records in 1395; its tower dates from the 14th century. After the church was so badly damaged by the effects of war in 1944 that it could not be rebuilt, a new nave was added to the old tower in 1951. Pieces of the former furnishings have also been preserved in the present-day church: an oak pulpit from 1684 with cherub and lion heads, and a copper chandelier from 1650. The surviving tower, the later nave and the older furnishings tell the story of different phases in the building’s history.

Roman history is also part of the local landscape: numerous Roman finds discovered in Kesteren’s built-up area point to a military presence. There are also several Roman burial grounds. These traces add a much earlier historical layer to the later buildings.

Fruit Growing and Produce

Fruit and avenue-tree growing have shaped the history of the area around Opheusden and Kesteren. This long-established growing centre has origins dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries. Fruit growing can still be seen in various forms today: the fruit-growing business Capel Fruit has grown cherries, apples and pears for four generations. Capel Fruit’s cherry stand at the Betuwestraatweg/N233 intersection in Kesteren sells cherries grown on its own farm; availability is seasonal.

Another way to enjoy local produce during your stay is the orchard at the Pitstop, where visitors can eat the products they have bought. The De Zwaluw mill adds to the picture of local food production. It regularly mills flour for a restaurant, a bakery and a mill shop—a direct link between the mill and its various customers.

The Rijnbandijk and Events Throughout the Year

The winding Rijnbandijk lies between Kesteren and Lienden. As an old dike, it shapes the local landscape; several listed buildings stand along the route. It lies between the floodplains and riverbank ridges of Neder-Betuwe. Here, the landscape and historic buildings meet.

The Streekfair Kesteren is an annual event. It takes place on the second Saturday in September; the exact date varies from year to year. If you would like to plan your stay around it, check the date for the year you are travelling.

More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Echteld, Ochten, Opheusden.

Back to the main travel guide: Neder-Betuwe.