The area where you live you know like the back of your hand at some point, don’t you? Look beyond your familiar surroundings and discover a beautiful piece of nature in the Netherlands: the Veluwe. There is something for everyone, from wooded countryside to cozy villages. Put the bikes on the back of the car or rent bikes on the Veluwe itself and hit the road!
Route 1: The Hoge Veluwe
When you think of the Veluwe, you think of nature. Red deer, birds of prey, heath and forest. All of this can be found in the Hoge Veluwe National Park. It is a popular place for hiking and biking. And a nice advantage: you can use the white bikes available here for free. There are 1,800 white bikes distributed at the various entrances to the park. Going out with the kids? White bikes for the kids are also available, ideal.
During this bike tour, discover not only the nature and various animals in the park, but also take a break to enjoy the cultural stops. In the park you will find, for example:
– The Kröller-Müller Museum: with works by Auguste Rodin and Henry Moore, among others
– The Medeonder: the world’s first underground museum
Route 2: Veluwemeer
De Hoge Veluwe National Park is not the only natural beauty the area has to offer. Among other things, you can also bike beautifully at the Veluwe Lake. The lake has long stretched between the western side of Gelderland and eastern Flevoland. The towns of Harderwijk and Elburg border the south and north of the lake, making these towns a nice stopover as a break. Going on a day out with the kids? Then alternate cycling with other activities, such as:
– An attractive terrace on the boulevard of Harderwijk
– Stroll through the old town in Harderwijk and visit the quaint, local stores.
– Picnicking on the beach
Route 3: Waterfall Loenen
If you’re out and about with kids, Loenen is not to be missed. Cycle together to the waterfall in Loenen: the highest waterfall in the Netherlands with a height of 15 meters. This is not the only thing to do in the Loenen area. These include several sculpture gardens, a sheep pen and a steam train.
Route 4: Veluwe Heath
In August, the moors are a beautiful, blooming place to plan your bike route. The purple splendor of the Ginkel Heath is a feast for the eyes and the camera.
The Ginkel Heath is known not only for its natural beauty, but also for its historical significance. In fact, it was one of the key locations during Operation Market Garden in World War II.
You’ll also pass the Airborne Museum at the Veluwe Heath, where you can learn more about the region’s impressive history. It is a tribute to the paratroopers who landed here, and the museum takes you into the history of the time.
Route 5: Historic Apeldoorn
Are you more into an urban cycling route? Then choose to bike in Apeldoorn. Cycle past Het Loo Palace and through the Oranje Park.
Is mountain biking more your thing? Then try the mountain bike route “Zandenwoud” This route of no less than 52 kilometers is full of challenging climbs and turns. Along the way you will pass Radio Kootwijk and you even have the chance to encounter wild boar and deer along the way!
Ready for adventure in the Veluwe?
Whether you go alone, with the kids, on an electric bike or mountain bike. For everyone, the Veluwe has something to offer. Immerse yourself in culture, nature and history and enjoy the beautiful nature of the Netherlands!
