The best traffic-free bike rides around Berkelland

Berkelland offers a wide selection of routes for gravel biking. Our guide features over 35 carefully curated no-traffic gravel bike trails, ranging from easy to difficult, ensuring there's a suitable option for every rider.

Berkelland, known as the 'gravel heart of the Achterhoek', provides a diverse riding experience. You'll encounter an extensive network of unpaved roads, including gravel paths, sandy tracks, church paths, and old cart tracks. Routes often traverse through expansive meadows, forests, and idyllic spots, with surfaces varying from sand and cobblestones to occasional singletracks and gentle climbs.

Many routes pass through beautiful natural areas. You might cycle near the Zwillbrocker Venn, a unique nature reserve known for its flamingo colony, or explore the tranquil White Fen. The region is also characterized by its forests and the scenic Berkel and Slinge rivers.

Absolutely. Berkelland's gravel trails often lead past charming villages and historical landmarks. You can visit Warmelo Castle, or the impressive Kasteel Ruurlo, which now houses Museum MORE. Historic watermills, such as those in Borculo and Eibergen, are also common sights along the rivers.

Yes, Berkelland offers several easier routes suitable for families. The region's flat terrain and extensive network of quiet paths make it ideal for a relaxed ride with children. For example, the "Ruurlo Castle – Gardens of De Wiersse loop from Ruurlo" is an easy 37 km route that passes by notable attractions.

Many of Berkelland's outdoor areas and unpaved paths are dog-friendly, especially in rural and forested sections. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash, particularly when passing through nature reserves, agricultural land, or near livestock. Always check local signage for specific rules.

Parking is generally available in and around the main villages like Ruurlo, Borculo, Eibergen, and Neede, which often serve as starting points for many routes. Look for designated parking areas near town centers or trailheads. The Haarmühle Historic Watermill and Country Inn is also a picturesque starting point with parking facilities.

While Berkelland is a rural area, some villages are connected by public transport, primarily buses. Check local transport schedules for connections to towns like Ruurlo, Borculo, Eibergen, and Neede. Bringing a bike on public transport might have restrictions, so it's advisable to verify this with the transport provider beforehand.

Spring and autumn are often considered the best seasons for gravel biking in Berkelland. The weather is typically mild, and the landscapes are particularly beautiful with blooming nature or vibrant fall colors. Summer can also be pleasant, but be prepared for warmer temperatures. Winter rides are possible, but some paths might be muddy or icy.

Yes, for those seeking a longer adventure, Berkelland is part of the 'Gravel Heart of the Achterhoek' route, a substantial 125-kilometer loop. There's also a multi-day gravel adventure route spanning 246 kilometers, offering varied surfaces and opportunities for overnight stays in charming towns like Borculo, Ruurlo, Haarlo, and Beltrum.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Berkelland, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's tranquil, traffic-free paths, the diverse mix of surfaces, and the beautiful 'coulisse landscape' with its scenic views of fields, woods, and historic elements. The charming villages and riverside scenery are also frequently highlighted.