The best traffic-free bike rides around Zuid-Kennemerland

There are 7 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails in Zuid-Kennemerland, offering a variety of experiences from easy loops to more challenging rides through the dunes. These routes are designed to keep you away from vehicular traffic, providing a peaceful cycling experience.

You'll encounter a diverse landscape, primarily characterized by unique dune systems, coastal beaches, and forests. The routes feature mixed surfaces, including paved paths, gravel paths, single tracks, and sandy sections. Expect challenging climbs in the dune areas, rewarded with panoramic views, and sheltered sections through valleys and thickets.

Yes, Zuid-Kennemerland offers easy no-traffic gravel routes perfect for beginners or a family outing. An excellent option is the View of the Brederode Castle ruins – Ruins of Brederode Castle loop from CM.com Circuit Zandvoort, which is rated as easy and provides a pleasant ride without significant elevation.

Many of the no-traffic gravel routes in Zuid-Kennemerland are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Vogelmeer (Bird Lake) – Parnassia Beach and Dunes loop from Santpoort Noord offers a scenic circular tour through diverse landscapes.

The no-traffic gravel trails in Zuid-Kennemerland range from easy to difficult. You'll find 2 easy routes, 3 moderate routes, and 2 difficult routes. The difficulty often correlates with the amount of elevation gain and the technicality of the terrain, particularly in the dune areas with their challenging climbs.

The routes offer numerous points of interest. You can explore the stunning Zuid-Kennemerland National Park, visit the serene Vogelmeer (Bird Lake), or enjoy the coastal views from Bloemendaal aan Zee Beach. Other highlights include the historic Duin en Kruidberg Estate and the unique ’t Wed Lake and the Petrified Oaks.

For many routes within the Zuid-Kennemerland National Park, the Visitor Center De Kennemerduinen serves as a convenient starting point with parking facilities. It's also a great place to get information about the park before your ride.

Zuid-Kennemerland National Park is a protected Natura 2000 area. While general cycling is permitted on designated paths, it's always advisable to check the official park rules regarding specific trails, especially for gravel biking, to ensure you're on allowed routes. You can find more information on the park's official website or at the Visitor Center De Kennemerduinen.

Zuid-Kennemerland is enjoyable for gravel biking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer provides warmer weather for coastal rides. The sheltered nature of the dunes can make for delightful cycling even on windier days. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse and striking natural landscapes, the extensive network of traffic-free paths, and the unique experience of cycling through the dunes with the sound of the North Sea in the background. The opportunity to spot wildlife like fallow deer and Highland cattle is also a frequent highlight.

Yes, there are several longer no-traffic gravel routes available. The North Sea Coast Route Dune Trail – Hollands Duin Cycle Path loop from Heemstede-Aerdenhout is a moderate route spanning over 55 km, offering an extensive ride through the coastal dunes. Another option is the Water Line Loop from Haarlem, which is a difficult route over 66 km.