The best cycling routes in Gelderland

Gelderland offers a vast network for touring cyclists, with over 10,000 routes recorded on komoot. This includes a wide range of options, from easy rides to more challenging trails, ensuring there's something for every skill level.

Gelderland's landscape is incredibly diverse. You'll find routes traversing the dense forests, expansive heathlands, and shifting sand dunes of the Veluwe, as well as the tranquil river landscapes and floodplains of Rivierenland. The Montferland region offers gentle hills, a pleasant contrast to the generally flat Dutch terrain. The extensive cycling network often utilizes the 'knooppunten' (junctions) system, making navigation straightforward.

Yes, Gelderland is very accommodating for family cycling. Many routes are paved and relatively flat, especially in areas like Rivierenland, making them suitable for all ages. The region's extensive and well-maintained cycling paths ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for families. Consider routes that explore the picturesque orchards of the Betuwe or the charming dike villages.

Many touring cycling routes in Gelderland are designed as circular paths, allowing you to start and end your journey at the same point. The 'knooppunten' (junctions) system makes it easy to plan your own circular routes, connecting various points of interest and natural landscapes throughout the province.

Gelderland's routes are rich with natural beauty and historical sites. You can cycle through the diverse landscapes of Veluwezoom National Park, known for its forests and heathlands, or witness the unique Beekhuizerzand Sand Dunes. The region also features numerous viewpoints like the Posbank Viewpoint, offering stunning vistas. Historic sites such as the Motte Mergelp on the Duivelsberg also dot the landscape.

While much of Gelderland is relatively flat, you can find more challenging routes, particularly in areas like the Veluwe and Montferland, which feature more elevation changes. For instance, the route Discover the Achterhoekse Graafschap by bike is rated as difficult, offering a more strenuous experience through the varied landscapes of the Achterhoek.

The spring and autumn months are particularly beautiful for touring cycling in Gelderland. In spring, the Betuwe region, part of Rivierenland, is stunning with blossoming fruit trees. Autumn offers vibrant colors in the Veluwe's forests and heathlands, as seen in routes like Forests, heathlands and castles - the perfect autumn bike route from Nunspeet. Summer is also popular, though it can be busier.

Many natural areas and cycling paths in Gelderland are dog-friendly, especially those outside of protected wildlife zones where specific rules might apply. Always check local regulations for national parks like Hoge Veluwe or Veluwezoom, as some areas may require dogs to be on a leash or restrict access. Generally, routes through forests and along rivers are suitable for cycling with your dog.

Gelderland has a good public transport network, including trains and buses, that can help you reach various starting points for cycling routes. Many trains in the Netherlands allow bicycles outside of peak hours, often requiring a special ticket. Check the specific train or bus operator's rules regarding bicycle transport before you travel to plan your journey effectively.

For Hoge Veluwe National Park, while entry requires a fee, visitors can often use free white bicycles provided within the park. For other national parks like Veluwezoom, general cycling on designated paths usually does not require a special permit beyond standard park entry fees if applicable. Always check the official websites of specific national parks for the most up-to-date information on entry requirements and cycling rules.

The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in Gelderland, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 31,000 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the region's diverse landscapes, from the quiet woodlands of the Veluwe to the scenic river views of Rivierenland. The well-maintained cycling infrastructure and the abundance of cultural and natural highlights along the routes are also commonly highlighted as major draws.

To find less crowded routes, consider exploring areas outside the most popular national parks during peak season. The Achterhoek region, with its intimate patchwork landscape of hedgerows and estates, or the quieter parts of Rivierenland, can offer a more serene cycling experience. Early mornings or weekdays are also good times to enjoy popular routes with fewer people.