The Veluwe, in the province of Gelderland, is the largest forested area in the Netherlands: a high, sandy ridge of woods, heathland and drifting sand left behind by the ice ages. For Dutch mountain bikers it is the main playground, with many signposted routes across land owned by nature organisations, municipalities and private estates. It is also a good place to learn, provided you pick the right route and know the rules.
What Riding in the Veluwe Is Like
Do not expect mountains. The highest points are moraine ridges around 100 metres above sea level, and climbs are short. The challenge comes from the surface: loose sand that grabs the front wheel, roots on forest singletrack, and short steep pitches up and down the old glacial ridges. For a beginner, sand is the main thing to learn. Keep your weight back, keep pedalling and avoid sudden steering when the front wheel starts to sink.
How the Marked Routes Work
Mountain biking in Dutch nature areas is generally only allowed on marked MTB routes, not on walking paths or anywhere you like. Routes are signposted with small MTB arrows or posts, and many are one-way, which reduces head-on encounters on narrow trails.
Routes cross land belonging to several owners, such as Staatsbosbeheer, Natuurmonumenten, Geldersch Landschap and private estates, and each can set its own conditions. Some organisations ask riders to buy a route contribution or annual pass that pays for trail maintenance. Before you ride, read the route's official page for:
- Whether a contribution or pass is required.
- Temporary closures, for example during forestry work or after storms.
- Any seasonal restrictions to protect wildlife.
Choosing a Beginner-Friendly Route
Not every Veluwe route suits a novice. The MTB route in Nationaal Park Veluwezoom, near Arnhem, is about 49 km for the main loop and is described by the regional tourism site as tough and adventurous, with steep climbs, sharp bends and singletrack; it is better left for later. For a first outing:
- Pick a short loop or a route that can be shortened. Several longer routes, including Veluwezoom's, have cut-through points.
- Look for routes described as suitable for beginners on veluwe.nl and the landowners' sites; descriptions usually mention the amount of singletrack and climbing.
- Ride a gravel or forest road first. The Veluwe also has many unpaved forest roads open to cyclists, which are an easy way to get used to sand and loose surfaces before tackling singletrack.
Note that De Hoge Veluwe National Park, a separate park with an entry fee, is a place for relaxed cycling on its paved paths and its free white bikes rather than mountain biking.
Rules and Trail Etiquette
- Stay on the marked route. Riding off-route damages vegetation and can lead to fines.
- Give way to walkers and horse riders where routes share paths, and slow down when passing.
- Ride in the indicated direction on one-way routes.
- Respect closures, including those for wildlife. The Veluwe has deer, wild boar and other animals; give them space and never chase them.
- Leave no trace. Take your rubbish home.
- Ride in daylight. Many routes are closed or unsuitable after dark.
Renting a Bike and Kit
Bike shops and rental outfits in towns around the Veluwe rent mountain bikes and electric mountain bikes, often with helmets. Book ahead on summer weekends. An e-MTB helps on sand and climbs, but it is heavier, so take it easy on descents until you are used to it.
Bring:
- A helmet. Not legally required for cyclists in the Netherlands, but sensible off-road.
- Gloves and glasses for branches and dust.
- Water and snacks, as there are long stretches between cafés.
- A spare tube, pump and multitool, or at least the rental shop's phone number.
- A phone with the route loaded in case signs are missing.
When to Go
Spring and autumn are the best seasons. The heathland flowers purple in August and early September, which is beautiful but also busy. After a dry spell, sand gets deeper and harder to ride; after rain, it firms up. Weekday mornings are the quietest time on popular routes. In winter, routes can be muddy or closed after storms, so always check the route page on the day you ride.
