The best gravel rides in Boswachterij Gees

There are over 20 gravel bike trails in Boswachterij Gees, offering a diverse range of experiences. You'll find options from easy to difficult, ensuring there's something for every skill level.

Yes, Boswachterij Gees has 9 easy gravel bike tours. A great option for a more relaxed ride is the Jantina Helling Windmill (Aalden) – Geeserveld Wetlands loop from Aalden, which is 30.3 km long and takes you through scenic wetlands.

For those seeking a longer challenge, Boswachterij Gees offers several routes over 50 km. Consider the Cycle Path Along Mantingerzand – Mekelveld and Mekelermeer loop from Oosterhesselen, a difficult 56.0 km path that traverses sandy areas and passes by Mekelermeer lake.

Many of the gravel bike routes in Boswachterij Gees are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the popular Church of Zweeloo – Birdwatching viewpoint at Veenplas loop from Zwinderen is a 50.7 km circular trail.

The terrain in Boswachterij Gees is varied, featuring extensive forests, open sandy areas like Mantingerzand, and tranquil wetlands such as Geeserveld. The region is relatively flat, with gentle elevation changes, making it suitable for long-distance riding on mixed natural surfaces.

Along the trails, you can discover several points of interest. Look out for the Birdwatching viewpoint at Veenplas, the serene Mekelermeer in Boswachterij Gees, or the unique Tilweg Cobblestone Section (Gees Forest). Many routes also pass through beautiful forest sections.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 10 reviews. Riders often praise the varied landscapes, from quiet woodlands to open heathlands, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable gravel biking experience.

Absolutely. Many routes in Boswachterij Gees combine both. The MTB route Sleen – Winding Forest Path loop from Aalden, for instance, takes you through winding forest paths, while other trails venture into more open, sandy areas like Mantingerzand.

Boswachterij Gees is enjoyable for gravel biking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Even in winter, with appropriate gear, the relatively flat terrain can be explored, though some paths might be wetter.

While specific cafes directly on every trail are not guaranteed, the villages surrounding Boswachterij Gees, such as Aalden, Zweeloo, and Oosterhesselen, offer various amenities where you can find refreshments before or after your ride.

While some routes are popular, Boswachterij Gees has 22 tours in total, so it's possible to find quieter paths, especially during off-peak hours or by exploring some of the less-trafficked routes. The extensive network allows for a sense of solitude in many sections.