The best traffic-free bike rides in Kempkensberg

There are over 60 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes available in the broader region, offering a variety of experiences. These routes are designed to keep you away from busy roads, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable ride.

While Kempkensberg itself is urban, the surrounding Groningen area offers diverse landscapes. You can expect to cycle through charming villages, lush forests, and along tranquil waterways, especially on routes heading towards natural areas like Zuidlaardermeer Lake. The region is also known for its flat terrain, making for smooth rides.

Yes, out of the 60 routes, 23 are classified as easy, making them perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed pace. An example of an easy route is the De Schaak Mountain Bike Trail – German War Cemetery Ysselsteyn loop from Ysselsteyn, which covers a distance of approximately 36.6 km with minimal elevation gain.

The spring and summer months (April to September) are generally the best time to cycle in the Groningen region. The weather is milder, and the natural landscapes are at their most vibrant. The city garden around Kempkensberg also changes beautifully with the seasons, offering a pleasant environment.

Many of the no-traffic road cycling routes in the area are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. For instance, the Nooit Gedacht Windmill – Well Mill and Ponds loop from Ysselsteyn is a moderate 57.7 km circular route that takes you through scenic countryside.

The routes cater to various skill levels. You'll find 23 easy routes, 35 moderate routes, and 2 more challenging options. The terrain is generally flat, so difficulty usually relates to distance and duration rather than steep climbs.

The komoot community highly rates the cycling experiences here, with an average score of 4.46 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained bike paths, the tranquil atmosphere away from traffic, and the scenic views of the Dutch countryside.

Yes, for those seeking a longer challenge, there are routes like the Heerenven Observation Tower – Bleijenbeek Castle Ruins loop from Ysselsteyn. This moderate route spans nearly 96 km, offering a substantial ride through varied landscapes with some elevation changes.

The Kempkensberg building itself is known for its excellent cycling infrastructure, including an underground parking garage with space for 1500 bicycles. While this is primarily for bikes, the area around Groningen generally offers various parking options for cars, making it convenient to start your ride.

Groningen is a very cycling-friendly city with excellent public transport connections. The Kempkensberg area is well-integrated into the city's network, making it easy to reach by bus or train, often with facilities to transport your bike, allowing you to start your no-traffic road cycling adventure directly from the city.

Many routes, especially those passing through villages or along popular cycling paths like the Groningen City Loop, will have opportunities for refreshments. You can find charming cafes and local eateries to take a break and refuel. For example, the Small drawbridge near Linden – Oploo Water and Windmill loop from Ysselsteyn passes through areas where you might find local establishments.

Beyond the urban green spaces like the Kempkensberg City Garden and the Sterrebos, routes in the wider region can take you past significant natural features. You might encounter diverse plant life, elongated ponds enhancing biodiversity, and even geological formations as you approach the Hondsrug system. The Griendtsveen Wetlands – Forest road near Strabrechtse Heide loop from Ysselsteyn, for example, offers views of wetlands and forests.