Located in the south of North Rhine-Westphalia, Fröndenberg marks the transition between the industrial plain and the first wooded hills of the Sauerland. Bordered by the Ruhr, the municipality is a paradise for lovers of gentle touring, milling heritage and green panoramas.

To do:

• Ruhr Valley Cycle Path (RuhrtalRadweg) (3 hours): Take this iconic cycle route running along the Ruhr. The section around Fröndenberg meanders between wet meadows, old mills and disused hydroelectric dams.

• Paper Forge Museum (Kettenschmiedemuseum) (1 hour 30 minutes): Discover the region's artisan past during a visit to the museum dedicated to chain smiths. Live demonstrations retrace ironworking from the last century.

• Kiebitzwiese Nature Reserve (2 hours): Go for a hike in this protected riverbank area. Specially equipped observation points allow you to contemplate a wide variety of waterfowl and herds of horses living in semi-freedom.

Westfälischer Schinken & Pumpernickel: Savour genuine Westphalian ham (cured and beechwood-smoked) served on a slice of Pumpernickel, a traditional slow-baked rye dark bread, accompanied by a glass of artisan Schnapps.

Crossing the border into Lower Saxony, Lingen welcomes you on the banks of the River Ems and the Dortmund-Ems Canal. This historic market town delights with its gabled facades, lively market squares and numerous routes tailored for touring vehicles and cyclists.

To do:

• Market Square and Historic Town Hall: Stroll through the town centre to admire the Rathaus dating from 1555 and its animated carillon. The guided tour of the historic heart reveals magnificent timber-framed houses and pedestrian lanes lined with cafés.

• Dortmund-Ems Canal Greenaway (2 hours 30 minutes): Put on your helmet for a cycle ride along the canal path. The flat and safe route allows you to follow the passage of barges and reach the Ems Valley Nature Reserve.

• Linus Lingen Leisure Park: Treat yourself to a relaxing break at the town's water complex. The facility features large swimming pools, water slides and a spacious spa area with outdoor saunas.

Emsländischer Pickert & Lower Saxony Beers: Taste the Pickert, a pan-fried patty made from grated potatoes, served hot with cured meats or compote, accompanied by a local Pilsener.

Built in the shape of a perfectly preserved six-pointed star, Naarden is one of Europe's most remarkable fortified towns. Surrounded by double ramparts and water-filled moats, this stop offers a vivid immersion into the military history of the Netherlands while providing the peaceful setting of Lake Gooimeer.

To do:

• The Ramparts and the Vestingmuseum: Take a walk on the network of green fortifications encircling the town. Then visit the underground fortification museum (Nederlands Vestingmuseum) to explore the casemates and powder magazines.

• Navigation on the moats by historic boat: Embark on a traditional boat trip along the town's moats. This perspective from the water highlights the spectacular geometry of the stone bastions and fortified gates.

• Naarden's Grote Kerk Church: Visit this 15th-century Gothic basilica located in the heart of the old town. Admire its painted wooden ceilings and its tower offering a panoramic view of the rooftops and Lake Gooimeer.

Matured Gouda Cheese & Bitterballen: Savour a board of aged Goudse kaas (matured Gouda cheese with salt crystals) accompanied by hot bitterballen, small crispy meat croquettes to dip in strong mustard.