The best cycling routes in Veluwe
4.4
(4108)
36,255
riders
724
rides
Touring cycling routes in Veluwe traverse a diverse landscape characterized by extensive woodlands, vast heathlands, and significant sand drifts. This region, the largest push moraine complex in the Netherlands, features elevations reaching up to 360 feet (110 meters), offering more varied terrain than much of the country. Cyclists can explore dense forests, open heather fields, and unique almost desert-like environments. The area also includes small lakes and streams, contributing to its varied natural beauty.
Best touring cycling routes in Veluwe
- The most popular touring cycling route is Cycle through the forests of the Veluwe in search of wildlife, a 27.3 miles (44.0 km) trail that takes 2 hours 38 minutes to complete. This moderate route leads through dense forests, offering opportunities to observe local wildlife.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is De goed verborgen route – Gelderland, a moderate 34.5 miles (55.5 km) path. This route showcases the varied landscapes of the Veluwe, including woodlands and open areas.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Deer Statue on Hertjesweg – Rietveld Pavilion loop from Roekel, a 21.6 miles (34.8 km) trail leading through varied Veluwe terrain, often completed in about 2 hours 1 minute.
- Touring cycling in Veluwe is defined by extensive woodlands, vast heathlands, and unique sand drifts. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy, mostly paved paths to more challenging routes with elevation changes.
- The routes in Veluwe are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 3000 reviews. More than 32000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Veluwe's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.6
(121)
725
riders
44.0km
02:38
220m
220m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(53)
289
riders
55.5km
03:12
150m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.3
(17)
98
riders
41.9km
02:31
200m
200m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(632)
3,848
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(277)
1,654
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
On May 8, 1997, in Aachen, the then German Federal President Roman HERZOG received the International Charlemagne Prize as a special award. In his acceptance speech, he said: „For a thousand years, the question of our continent’s destiny has been whether it wants to live in unity or in division... I already said this on May 8, 1995, when commemorating the end of the Second World War, and I want to repeat it here in substance: ... What unites us Europeans first and foremost is our common European culture, and also our political culture, which is a culture of freedom... It is the roof under which we all live. More than once, the wars we have waged against each other have made this roof shake... Today, we have the unique opportunity to consolidate the roof – the spiritual superstructure of Europe – and to place it on a solid foundation of political unity and economic progress. … We want to live peacefully and in mutual respect with the other regions of the world. But we also want to preserve our own beliefs and ways of life. For this, we need a united Europe.“ (Roman Herzog)
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A great idea, so many more people can explore the wide area
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The Grevelweg near Elspeet is almost impossible to navigate with a regular bike. There are many holes and deep grooves in the unpaved path. Unfortunately, I fell off my bike. Be careful!
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The Arnhem War Museum ’40–’45, located just off the Apeldoornseweg route at Kemperbergerweg 780 on the outskirts of Arnhem, is a must-see stop for Komoot riders interested in WWII history. Housed in a former village school, it features an impressive private collection with detailed dioramas, map displays, and multilingual panels that vividly portray airborne operations, civilian experiences, resistance stories, and German defenses during Operation Market Garden. The museum’s weapons section is a highlight, showcasing original rifles, pistols, machine guns, and artillery shells from both Axis and Allied forces. Key exhibits include German Mauser rifles, MP40 submachine guns, British Lee-Enfield rifles, Sten guns, various types of ammunition and grenades, as well as artillery shells and anti-tank weapons, offering a comprehensive look at the armaments used in the area. Many of these items were recovered from the local area, collected over decades by the museum’s founder and other dedicated individuals passionate about preserving Arnhem’s WWII history. These weapons and artifacts were found during postwar clearing of battlefields, old bunkers, and abandoned military sites in the surrounding forests and fields. While most recovered weapons have been safely deactivated or rendered harmless, occasional reports exist of people discovering live ordnance like grenades or unexploded shells, which required intervention by bomb disposal teams. Such incidents are rare today but serve as a reminder that the scars of war can still surface decades later. The museum offers a safe, insightful way to explore these artifacts with respect and education. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 17:00, with admission around €10 for adults and children aged 6–11 (younger children enter free). Visitors should allow at least 90 minutes to two hours to fully explore the exhibits, though enthusiasts may stay longer. The museum makes a natural and rewarding break on your ride, providing a chance to switch from woodland scenery to immersive indoor history, with knowledgeable volunteers who bring the stories to life. There’s free parking nearby, and a café where you can refuel before continuing your journey through Arnhem’s intriguing forest landscapes and wartime sites.
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Simply because it is very beautiful.
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Fan of climbing and descending? You can find this Highlight in 'Climbing in the Netherlands', our book with 14 racing bike routes, good for 11,000+ altitude meters: Limburg, Nijmegen, Twente, Veluwe and many more. All routes have multiple distances/shortcuts. Komoot Premium month at €5 + 50% discount Climbfinder premium at €15 as a gift. Download the ebook for €14: https://bit.ly/klimmen-in-nederland
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Beautiful path across the heath
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The Iron Man ; The Iron Man is a fen in the Hoge Veluwe National Park, created by iron mining in the past. The fen is located in Deelense Veld and can form a unique heath stream in heavy rainfall. The name refers to the former iron mining on the Veluwe, where iron ore was extracted, melted and processed.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when touring cycling in Veluwe?
The Veluwe offers a remarkably varied landscape for touring cyclists. You'll encounter extensive woodlands, vast heathlands, and unique sand drifts. As the largest push moraine complex in the Netherlands, the region features elevations up to 110 meters (360 ft), providing more varied terrain than much of the country. Routes range from easy, mostly paved paths to more challenging options with elevation changes and unpaved segments.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in Veluwe?
Yes, Veluwe offers many routes suitable for families. The extensive network includes numerous easy, mostly paved paths that are ideal for cyclists of all ages. While specific family-friendly routes are not detailed here, the region's diverse and well-maintained cycling infrastructure ensures there are plenty of gentle options to explore together.
Can I bring my dog on touring cycling routes in Veluwe?
Many areas within the Veluwe are dog-friendly, but specific rules can vary, especially within National Parks like De Hoge Veluwe or Veluwezoom. Generally, dogs are welcome on a leash on public paths. It's always best to check the specific regulations for the route or park you plan to visit to ensure a pleasant experience for both you and your dog.
What are some notable landmarks or natural features to see along the cycling routes?
The Veluwe is rich in natural beauty and cultural sites. You can cycle through iconic purple heathlands, vast sand drifts like the Kootwijkerzand, and dense forests such as the Speulderbos. Highlights include the Turf hut at the entrance to Hoge Veluwe National Park, the Holloway Bridge, and the Cycling Ramp in Veluwe. You might also spot wildlife like red deer and wild boar.
When is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Veluwe?
The Veluwe is beautiful year-round, but for touring cycling, spring (April-May) and late summer/early autumn (August-October) are particularly recommended. In August, the heathlands, such as the Ermelose Heide, burst into vibrant purple bloom, creating stunning scenery. Autumn offers pleasant temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for colder weather and potentially icy conditions.
Are there many circular touring cycling routes in Veluwe?
Yes, the Veluwe's extensive cycling network includes numerous circular routes, making it easy to start and end your ride at the same point. Many routes are designed as loops, allowing you to explore diverse landscapes without retracing your steps. For example, the Deer Statue on Hertjesweg – Rietveld Pavilion loop from Roekel is a popular circular option.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Veluwe?
The Veluwe is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 3000 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's diverse landscapes, from dense forests to open heathlands and unique sand drifts, as well as the well-maintained cycling paths. The opportunity to spot wildlife and the varied terrain, which offers both gentle and more challenging sections, are frequently highlighted.
Are there options for different difficulty levels for touring cyclists?
Absolutely. The Veluwe caters to all ability levels. Out of over 660 touring cycling routes, approximately 500 are classified as easy, 140 as moderate, and 24 as difficult. This means you can find everything from leisurely rides on mostly paved paths to more challenging routes with significant elevation changes, particularly in areas like Veluwezoom National Park.
Can I find cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the routes?
Yes, the Veluwe region is dotted with charming villages and towns that offer plenty of opportunities for refreshments. Many routes pass through or near places with cafes, restaurants, and pubs where you can take a break. Picturesque old towns like Harderwijk and Elburg are excellent stopovers with local shops and attractive terraces.
Are there any routes that focus on wildlife spotting?
Yes, the Veluwe is renowned for its rich wildlife. A popular route specifically designed for this is Cycle through the forests of the Veluwe in search of wildlife. This route leads through dense forests, offering excellent chances to observe local animals such as red deer, wild boar, roe deer, and various bird species in their natural habitat.
What are some of the longer touring cycling routes in Veluwe?
For those looking for longer rides, the Veluwe offers several options. The De goed verborgen route – Gelderland is a moderate 55.5 km (34.5 miles) path showcasing varied landscapes. Another substantial option is the Speulderbos and Ermelo Heath Cycle Route, which covers about 56 km (35 miles) through forests and heathlands.
Are there any routes with significant elevation changes for a more challenging ride?
While much of the Netherlands is flat, the Veluwe, particularly areas like Veluwezoom National Park, offers more challenging terrain. The region features elevations up to 110 meters (360 ft), providing opportunities for climbs. The Veluwezoom route - Gelderland is a good example, known for its relief and beautiful views, offering a more demanding experience for touring cyclists.
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