The best traffic-free bike rides in Borkeld

Borkeld offers a wide selection of traffic-free gravel bike trails, with over 120 routes to explore. These range from easy rides perfect for beginners to more challenging routes for experienced gravel bikers.

You can expect a diverse and engaging landscape. While the Netherlands is generally flat, Borkeld features undulating terrain with gentle elevation changes, such as the Friezenberg at 40 meters. Trails often combine gravel, unpaved natural paths, and some asphalt, winding through young forests, expansive heathlands, clay pits, and fens. This variety ensures a dynamic and interesting ride.

Yes, Borkeld has 24 easy-rated traffic-free gravel bike routes. These trails are perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride through the beautiful natural surroundings without significant technical challenges.

For experienced riders seeking a longer challenge, consider routes like the Gravel path through the Borkeld – The Borkeld Nature Reserve loop from Rijssen, which spans over 95 kilometers. Another challenging option is the Holterberg Forest Path – Holten Canadian Cemetery loop from Rijssen, offering over 42 kilometers of varied terrain.

Borkeld's trails offer a mix of natural beauty and historical interest. You can ride through the expansive Borkeld Nature Reserve, known for its heathlands and the largest juniper berry shrub in the Netherlands. Keep an eye out for Drenthe Heath Sheep and land goats. You might also encounter prehistoric burial mounds, visible as 'humps' in the landscape, adding a historical layer to your ride. Don't miss the View from Friezenberg for panoramic vistas.

Many of Borkeld's traffic-free gravel routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Markelose Berg – Gravel path through the Borkeld loop from Rijssen is a popular moderate circular route covering over 34 kilometers.

The komoot community highly rates Borkeld's gravel trails, with an average score of 4.5 stars from 58 ratings. Reviewers often praise the quiet, diverse landscapes, the well-maintained gravel paths, and the feeling of being immersed in nature away from traffic. The undulating terrain and varied ecosystems are frequently highlighted as key attractions.

Yes, Borkeld offers several easy-rated routes that are suitable for families. The diverse and relatively gentle terrain, combined with the absence of traffic, makes it a safe and enjoyable environment for family outings. You can choose shorter loops that allow for breaks and exploration of the natural surroundings.

Borkeld is beautiful year-round, but the heathlands are particularly stunning when they bloom in late summer (August-September), painting the landscape in vibrant purple hues. Spring offers fresh greenery and pleasant temperatures, while autumn provides colorful foliage. Even in winter, the quiet, traffic-free trails can offer a serene experience, though conditions might be colder and wetter.

Absolutely. Beyond the general beauty of the Borkeld Nature Reserve, you can specifically look for the Gravel path through the Borkeld itself, which is a highlight. Other unique spots include the Phone of the Wind, Borkeld, an artistic installation, and the chance to spot Cows at Borkeld, which are part of the landscape management.

Borkeld is easily accessible, located near exit 27 of the A1 motorway. The day camping site De Borkeld often serves as a convenient starting point and offers facilities such as parking. You'll find various parking options near the main access points to the nature reserve, especially in towns like Rijssen, Holten, and Markelo, which border the area.

The moderate traffic-free gravel bike routes in Borkeld vary in length, but you can find options like the View from the Apenberg – De Apenberg loop from Markelo, which is around 57 kilometers, or the Gravel Path Between the Oaks – Korenmolen De Leeuw Bathmen loop from Rijssen, at approximately 61 kilometers. There are 82 moderate routes in total, offering a good range of distances.