Cycling on the Veluwe
The Veluwe is one of the most beautiful cycling areas in the Netherlands. With hundreds of kilometers of well-maintained cycle paths, you cycle through vast forests, purple heather fields, past sand drifts, and through charming villages. Are you looking for the most beautiful cycling routes on the Veluwe? From short loops to longer tours: there is a suitable route for every cyclist.
Why cycle on the Veluwe?
What makes cycling on the Veluwe so special is the variety of the landscape. Within a single cycling route, you ride through dense forests, across vast heathlands, and past impressive sand drifts. Moreover, thanks to the extensive network of cycling junctions, you can easily put together your own route. The Veluwe offers routes for every level.
Curious which nature reserves you will come across along the way? Then also check out our page about the most beautiful nature reserves on the Veluwe.
The most beautiful areas for cycling
De Hoge Veluwe National Park
One of the most popular places to cycle is De Hoge Veluwe National Park . Here you cycle through forests, heathlands, and sand drifts, while having the chance to spot wild animals along the way.
The famous White Bicycles are particularly special; you can use them for free to explore the park. This allows you to discover the Veluwe in a unique way.
Crown Estate Het Loo
Kroondomein Het Loo is a popular destination for cyclists who enjoy riding through quiet forests and along wide forest paths. Thanks to the varied scenery, this area is suitable for both short and longer bike rides.
Loenermark
Loenermark is a relatively quiet area where you can enjoy nature in complete silence. During a bike ride, you also stand a chance of spotting red deer, roe deer, or wild boars. The variety of forests, heathlands, and rolling landscapes makes this area attractive to both recreational and experienced cyclists.
Kootwijkerzand
Cycling through the Veluwe takes on a completely different character around the Kootwijkerzand. The enormous sand drift forms a unique backdrop and offers beautiful vistas. Various cycling routes run around the area, which can easily be combined with a walk.
Veluwezoom National Park
Veluwezoom National Park is known for its rolling landscapes and the Posbank. Especially in late August and early September, when the heather is in bloom, this area is one of the most beautiful places to cycle.
Popular cycling routes on the Veluwe
The Veluwe offers cycling routes for every cyclist. There are short routes of about 30 kilometers, but also longer tours of 50 kilometers or more for those who want to spend a full day out.
Thanks to the extensive network of cycling junctions, you can easily put together your own route through forests, heathlands, and nature reserves. You can find up-to-date cycling routes and junctions via an official route planner, so you can always choose a route that suits your needs.
Combine cycling and wildlife spotting
A bike ride across the Veluwe is more than just enjoying the scenery. Especially early in the morning or around sunset, you stand a chance of spotting red deer, roe deer, or wild boars along the way. Want to know where you have the best chance of spotting wild animals? Then check out our tips for wildlife spotting on the Veluwe.
Practical tips for cycling on the Veluwe
With good preparation, you get even more out of your bike ride.
- Make use of the cycling junction network on the Veluwe.
- Bring plenty of water, especially on hot days.
- Check your bicycle tire pressure beforehand.
- An electric bike is ideal on the Veluwe for longer distances or routes with elevation changes.
- Be considerate of walkers and other recreational users on the cycle paths.
Moreover, the Veluwe is not only suitable for recreational cyclists. Mountain biking and road cycling enthusiasts will also find challenging routes in the area.
Cycling with children
Cycling on the Veluwe is also a fun way for families to discover nature. There are various short and easy-to-navigate cycling routes suitable for children. Along the way, there is plenty to see, from blooming heather fields to wild animals and pleasant stops.
Are you looking for even more fun activities for the whole family? Then also check out our tips for family outings on the Veluwe.
Discover the Veluwe from Apeldoorn
Cycling from Apeldoorn is ideal thanks to its central location on the edge of the Veluwe. From the city, you can easily reach De Hoge Veluwe National Park, Kroondomein Het Loo, Kootwijkerzand, and other beautiful nature reserves.
Would you prefer to discover the Veluwe on foot? Discover all the tips for hiking in the Veluwe here. Do you want to go away for several days? Get inspired for a weekend getaway.
Staying overnight at Bastion Hotel Apeldoorn Het Loo
After an active day on the bike, it is pleasant to have a comfortable overnight stay. Bastion Hotel Apeldoorn Het Loo is located a short distance from various nature reserves, making it an ideal base for a cycling weekend on the Veluwe. Park your bike safely in our covered bicycle storage and start a new bike ride the next morning well-rested.
Would you prefer to stay overnight in Arnhem?
Bastion Hotel Arnhem is also an excellent base for a cycling holiday to the Veluwe. From the hotel, you can easily cycle to Veluwezoom National Park, De Hoge Veluwe, and other beautiful nature reserves.
Want to know more about a stay in the middle of nature? Check out our page about overnight stays on the Veluwe.