4.3
(1419)
14,697
riders
13
rides
Touring cycling around De Maashorst offers diverse natural features and varied terrain. This expansive nature reserve in North Brabant is characterized by extensive forests, vibrant heathlands, and dynamic shifting sand dunes. The region is also shaped by ancient geological formations, including the Peelrandbreuk, which creates unique "wijstgronden" where groundwater surfaces.
Last updated: August 20, 2026
4.4
(5)
27
riders
38.0km
02:15
50m
50m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
21
riders
27.1km
02:08
20m
20m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.

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5.0
(1)
9
riders
29.5km
01:46
30m
30m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(5)
26
riders
13.4km
00:48
10m
10m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
11
riders
97.9km
05:42
300m
300m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Gravel biking around De Maashorst
Herperduin is a vast nature reserve between Herpen and Oss, on the north side of De Maashorst. The landscape consists of forests, shifting sands, heathlands, and open spaces where the old history of the Brabant sandy soils is still clearly visible. Originally, this area largely consisted of heath and sand drifts. Through centuries of land use, poor sandy soils developed where the landscape constantly changed. Later, large parts were afforested, mainly with Scots pine, to stabilize the shifting sand and produce timber. This resulted in the varied forest landscape you see today. Between the trees, there are still open sandy patches and heath remnants that are reminiscent of the former landscape. The transition between forest and open terrain, in particular, makes Herperduin attractive to walkers: one moment you are walking through a quiet forest lane, the next you find yourself in the middle of an open landscape with distant views. The area is part of De Maashorst and is known for its tranquility, wide sandy paths, and natural diversity. In addition to nature, you will also find traces of the past, such as old paths, burial mounds, and landscape elements that show that people have used these higher sandy soils for thousands of years. A typical Brabant nature area where forest, sand, and history come together.
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On this path, you can also enjoy the forests with a road bike.
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Long and straight, boring you might think. But there's plenty of variety along the way.
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A beautiful, sturdy bridge. On the Grave side. You can see a bunker. There's a monument next to it with information about the Second World War. Turning the wheel plays a spoken commentary. Definitely worth listening to.
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Paved cycle path through the Maashorst region. Connects Uden and Schaijk.
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The John S. Thompson Bridge, located near Grave, is a strategic bridge over the Maas River, officially known as the Bridge at Grave. It was named in honor of Lt. Col. John S. Thompson, commander of the 82nd Airborne Regiment, which successfully captured the bridge during Operation Market Garden (September 1944). The airborne units captured the bridge virtually intact, preserving a vital link in the Allied advance toward Nijmegen and Arnhem. A small monument commemorates this action stands on the north side. The bridge is therefore an important war memorial in the Maas-Grave area.
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Shortly before you enter the Maashorst nature reserve there are several meadow and field landscapes
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De Maashorst offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 770 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including more than 420 easy routes, 260 moderate routes, and 80 more challenging trails.
Cyclists in De Maashorst will encounter a diverse landscape featuring extensive forests, vibrant heathlands, and dynamic shifting sand dunes. The routes often include a mix of paved and unpaved paths, providing a varied and engaging experience.
Yes, De Maashorst is very welcoming for families and beginners. There are over 420 easy touring cycling routes, many of which are designed to be accessible and enjoyable for all skill levels. These routes typically feature gentler gradients and well-maintained paths.
De Maashorst is rich in unique features. You can explore areas shaped by the Peelrandbreuk, a significant earth fracture creating 'wijstgronden' where groundwater surfaces. Routes also pass through tranquil fens and heathlands. For specific points of interest, consider visiting the De Maashorst Nature Centre or the Large Pond at Het Bomenpark.
Numerous starting points across De Maashorst offer essential facilities, including places for food and drinks. A popular spot for refreshments is the charming cafe De Boshut Maashorst, which provides an inviting break during your tour.
Many of the cycling routes in De Maashorst are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Park Along the Raam – Historic Town of Grave loop from Nistelrode is a popular circular option that explores historical sites.
The heathlands in De Maashorst are particularly vibrant and beautiful when they burst into bloom, especially in late July. Spring and early autumn also offer pleasant cycling conditions with mild weather and beautiful natural scenery.
Yes, De Maashorst is known for its designated 'primeval area' where large grazers like European bison (wisents), Tauros cattle, and Exmoor ponies roam freely. While cycling, you have a unique opportunity to observe these animals, which play a crucial role in maintaining the open landscape.
De Maashorst is easily accessible. There is ample parking available at various starting points throughout the reserve. For those relying on public transport, the area is also well-connected, making it convenient to reach without a car.
For cyclists looking for a greater challenge, De Maashorst offers over 80 difficult touring cycling routes. An example is the Forest trail in De Maashorst – Udensedreef loop from Nistelrode, which leads through varied forest terrain and is rated as difficult.
The touring cycling routes in De Maashorst are highly rated by the komoot community, holding an average score of 4.4 stars from over 1100 reviews. More than 12,000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the area, often praising its varied terrain and natural beauty.
De Maashorst is rich in history, with archaeological discoveries ranging from early Ice Age princely graves to forgotten medieval villages and urn fields. Certain cycling routes, such as the 'Doden en Godenroute' (not listed in this guide's routes, but mentioned in regional research), guide visitors past these significant historical sites. You can also explore the historic town of Grave on routes like the Park Along the Raam – Historic Town of Grave loop from Nistelrode.
De Maashorst offers numerous convenient starting points across the reserve. Many of these locations provide essential facilities, including food, drinks, and information. The De Maashorst Nature Centre is a key information hub and a popular starting point for various tours.


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