Top 6 cycling routes in the Netherlands you don't want to miss

The Netherlands is a true cycling nation. With an extensive network of bike paths, flat yet diverse landscapes, and charming villages, it’s the perfect destination for anyone looking to enjoy a scenic route on holiday or embark on a full cycling adventure. Whether you're keen to ride through dunes, past historic cities, or across vast polders – there’s a perfect ride for everyone.

Below, we present the top 10 of the best cycling holidays Netherlands has to offer – ideal for your next bike getaway. This selection is based on rider experiences, bike-friendliness, and cultural and scenic highlights. The routes vary in length and type of landscape, so there's something for every type of cyclist.

1. Veluwezoom Route – Starts and ends in Dieren

The Veluwezoom Route is an impressive 46 km loop through the Veluwezoom National Park – the oldest national park in the Netherlands. It offers everything nature lovers and active cyclists are looking for.

You’ll cycle through gentle hills, expansive heathlands, ancient forests and drifting sands. Along the way, you’ll pass scenic viewpoints like the famous Posbank, where on a clear day you can see for miles over the rolling landscape, a rare sight in the Netherlands.

This route is ideal if you’re looking to combine peace, space and nature on one of the best cycling holidays Netherlands offers. Well-signposted and part of the national cycle network, it’s suitable for recreational and experienced riders alike. Charming cafés and restaurants along the way offer ideal spots for a break.

Scenic heathland with blooming purple heather and scattered birch trees in Veluwezoom National Park, under a bright blue sky.

2. Kinderdijk Windmill Route

This scenic 40 km loop takes you through the famous windmill landscape of Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic images of the Netherlands.

Cycle past 19 historic windmills and through a watery landscape of polders, canals, and willows. The peace, views and authentic atmosphere make this a highlight among the best cycling holidays Netherlands has to offer, perfect for a relaxed day tour or part of a longer cycling trip.

Much of the route runs along quiet dikes and country lanes with little traffic. You can combine the tour with a visit to the windmill museum or hop on a small ferry for an extra touch of adventure.

Cycling path alongside the windmills of Kinderdijk, with a windmill model and traditional Dutch wooden clogs in the foreground.

3. Utrechtse Heuvelrug Route – Starts and ends in Driebergen-Zeist

This 90 km circular route runs through the green heart of the Netherlands, over the forested hills and grand estates of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug. Ride through ancient woodlands, gently rolling sandy terrain, and past historic country houses.

Highlights include the Kaapse Bossen, the De Kaap viewing tower, and the picturesque village of Doorn. A combination of nature, tranquillity and culture makes this one of the most popular Dutch routes. The slight elevation offers just enough challenge without being too strenuous, ideal even with an e-bike.

With its varied scenery and plenty of places to stop, it’s a great option for a relaxing day trip or short cycling break.

Quiet cycling path through the lush green forest of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug, bordered by tall pine and deciduous trees.

4. Groningen Lakes Route – Starts and ends in Zuidlaren

This peaceful 50 km tour takes you through the quiet, flat countryside of northern Drenthe and Groningen, where water, wide open spaces and traditional villages take centre stage.

Cycle past the beautiful Zuidlaardermeer, through green polders and reed-lined paths, and visit charming villages such as Noordlaren and Midlaren. This fully car-free, well-signposted route is perfect for those seeking pure relaxation and a deep connection with nature.

What makes this route stand out among the best cycling holidays Netherlands offers is the unique combination of landscapes, historic farmhouses, ancient churches and scenic waterways. Great for a picnic by the lake or a break at a waterside café.

Charming canal-side village with traditional red-roofed houses along the Groningse Merenroute in the Netherlands, under a bright blue sky.

5. Limburg Hill Route – Starts and ends in Valkenburg

This stunning 70 km route takes you through the rolling hills of South Limburg, a rare sight in the otherwise flat Netherlands.

Ride winding roads past vineyards and orchards and through villages such as Epen, Mechelen and Gulpen. Climb iconic hills like the Cauberg and Eyserbosweg, making this one of the most characteristic and challenging routes in the country.

Despite the hills, this route is doable for holiday cyclists looking for a bit of a challenge. There are plenty of cosy terraces to stop and rest along the way.

Rolling hills and a quiet country road leading to a picturesque village in the Limburg region of the Netherlands, surrounded by lush green farmland and forests.

6. The Achterhoek Castle Route – Starts and ends in Vorden

This picturesque 45 km loop takes you through the lush countryside of the Achterhoek region, known for its hedgerows, forests and narrow lanes.

From the village of Vorden, famous for its castles, you’ll cycle past no fewer than eight castles and manors, each with its own story and atmosphere. Highlights include Hackfort Castle, Vorden Castle and Den Bramel.

he flat terrain makes for a relaxing ride, and you’ll find plenty of places to pause, from tea gardens and farm shops to terraces with regional produce. A perfect blend of history, nature and hospitality.