The best traffic-free bike rides in Gelderland

Gelderland offers a vast network of routes ideal for gravel biking, with over 1000 traffic-free bike rides listed on komoot. Many of these traverse the province's diverse landscapes, providing excellent opportunities for quiet gravel adventures away from cars.

You'll find a wide variety of terrain. The Veluwe region features dense woodlands, expansive open heathlands, and even Europe's largest sand drifts, with some routes offering significant elevation changes. The Achterhoek provides picturesque gravel strips through forests and characteristic farm roads, while the river landscapes offer tranquil riding along dikes and through floodplains on hard-packed earth and gravel paths.

Yes, Gelderland has plenty of challenging options. For instance, the route Evergreens – fantastic year-round gravel in Kroondomein is rated difficult, covering over 60 km with 300 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding option is Evergreens – gravel in and around the Rijk van Nijmegen, which features over 360 meters of climbing.

The **Veluwe** is a prime location, known for its extensive forests, heathlands, and sand drifts, offering varied topography and quiet paths. The **Achterhoek** is excellent for its charming patchwork landscapes and 'Strade Bianche' style gravel roads. For a different experience, the **River Landscapes** (like Rivierenland or Land of Maas and Waal) provide serene riding along dikes and through polders.

Absolutely. Many of Gelderland's gravel routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the extensive Veluwe National Landscape loop from Apeldoorn offers a long, immersive experience through the region's natural beauty.

Gelderland's routes often pass through stunning natural areas and past historic sites. You might encounter the vast sand drifts of the Veluwe, picturesque river floodplains, or dense ancient forests. Keep an eye out for viewpoints like the Hulzenberg Lookout Tower or serene lakes such as 't Hilgelo. Historic castles and estates are also common sights, especially in the Achterhoek.

Yes, Gelderland caters to all skill levels. While many routes offer a challenge, there are also numerous easier options. Look for routes labeled 'easy' or 'moderate' on komoot, which typically feature flatter terrain and shorter distances, perfect for those new to gravel biking or looking for a relaxed ride.

The komoot community highly rates Gelderland for gravel biking, with an average score of 4.5 stars from nearly 2000 ratings. Reviewers often praise the incredible diversity of landscapes, from the quiet, dense forests of the Veluwe to the charming rural roads of the Achterhoek. The extensive network of well-maintained, traffic-free paths and the opportunities to spot wildlife are also frequently highlighted.

Many towns and villages in Gelderland, particularly those near popular biking regions like the Veluwe or around Nijmegen, are well-connected by public transport. This often allows for convenient access to trailheads, though it's always advisable to check specific train or bus routes and their bike carriage policies in advance.

The Veluwe is famous for its sand drifts. While specific routes might not be exclusively dedicated to them, many trails within National Parks like De Hoge Veluwe and Veluwezoom will lead you through or alongside these unique natural phenomena. The route Gravel in Loenermark & het Deelerwoud, for example, explores the diverse landscapes of the central Veluwe, where sand drifts are a prominent feature.

Spring and autumn are generally considered the best seasons for gravel biking in Gelderland. The weather is typically mild, and the landscapes are particularly beautiful, with blooming heathlands in late summer/early autumn or vibrant autumn foliage. Summer can also be great, but be prepared for warmer temperatures, especially on open heathlands. Winter rides are possible, but some paths might be muddy or icy.