The best traffic-free bike rides in Gelderland

Gelderland offers a vast network of cycling paths, with over 5,500 touring cycling routes available, many of which are designed to be traffic-free or low-traffic. This includes a significant number of easy routes, making it accessible for various skill levels.

Gelderland's landscape is diverse. You'll find routes through the vast woodlands and heathlands of the Veluwe, which can include gentle rolling hills and sandy drifts, such as on the route Cycle through the forests of the Veluwe in search of wildlife. Other areas, like the 'Rivierenland' along the Rhine, Waal, and IJssel, offer flatter terrain following dikes and riverbanks, as seen in the Gelderse Poort and Ooijpolder Cycle Route. While generally not mountainous, some areas like Montferland and the Rijk van Nijmegen feature more undulating landscapes with wooded moraines, providing varied elevations.

Yes, Gelderland is very welcoming for beginners and those seeking leisurely rides. Out of the over 5,500 touring cycling routes, more than 3,400 are classified as easy. These routes often follow flat river landscapes or well-maintained paths through forests and heathlands, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all skill levels.

Gelderland is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can cycle through the stunning Veluwe, home to Veluwezoom National Park, known for its heathlands and wildlife. River routes offer views of fertile floodplains and orchards. Notable viewpoints include the Posbank Viewpoint, offering panoramic vistas. Historic sites like the Motte Mergelp on the Duivelsberg also dot the landscape, providing cultural stops along your journey.

The spring (April-May) is ideal for witnessing the fruit orchards in bloom in the 'Rivierenland' region. Summer (June-August) offers warm weather perfect for long rides, though routes can be busier. Autumn (September-October) brings beautiful colors to the Veluwe's forests and heathlands, especially the vibrant purple hues of the heath at sunset. While winter cycling is possible, some services might be limited, and weather conditions can be less predictable.

Many of Gelderland's traffic-free routes are suitable for families, especially the numerous easy-rated tours. The extensive, well-maintained cycling path network ensures safety and comfort for riders of all ages. Routes through national parks like the Veluwe often have designated car-free sections, providing a peaceful environment for families to explore together.

Generally, dogs are welcome on many cycling paths in Gelderland, provided they are kept on a leash. However, specific rules may apply within national parks or nature reserves, such as Hoge Veluwe National Park or Veluwezoom National Park, where certain areas might have restrictions to protect wildlife. It's always advisable to check local regulations for the specific route or park you plan to visit.

The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in Gelderland, with an average score of 4.45 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse and picturesque landscapes, from the quiet woodlands and heathlands of the Veluwe to the tranquil river valleys. The extensive and well-maintained network of traffic-free cycling paths, along with opportunities to spot wildlife and visit charming historic towns, are frequently highlighted as major attractions.

Yes, Gelderland offers several longer traffic-free touring routes. For example, the Lingeroute - Utrecht covers nearly 70 km, following river landscapes and passing through charming villages. Other routes, like Arnhem: cycle along the Gelderse Poort and Fort Westervoort, provide substantial distances for those looking for extended rides through varied scenery.

Many of the touring cycling routes in Gelderland are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. An example is the Sintelweg, De Hoge Veluwe – Sint Hubertus Hunting Lodge loop from Otterlo, which offers a substantial circular ride through the national park. This design makes planning easier, especially if you're traveling by car and need to return to a specific parking location.

Gelderland is well-connected, making it accessible by both public transport and car. Major cities like Nijmegen and Arnhem have good train connections, and many routes start near train stations. For those traveling by car, parking is often available at the trailheads or in nearby towns, especially around popular areas like the Veluwe. The extensive cycling network often allows for easy access from various points within the province.