Harderwijk cycling routes
Thijs de JongHarderwijk is one of the best places to start exploring the Veluwe by bike. Ride through the historic town centre first, then head out into nature: within minutes you're among the trees, on open heathland or along the Veluwemeer. From short loops to long rides, there's always a route to suit you.
39.7 km3 hours
De Outdoor Fietsroute
Outdoor Harderwijk's own route. From the historic harbour to the heath of Ermelo and the Leuvenumse bos. Combine it with lunch, drinks or a BBQ.
26 km1.5 hours
De Veluwse Natuurroute
26 kilometres of the Leuvenumse bos, the Beekhuizerzand and the purple heath of Ermelo. The route for the e-chopper and e-scooter, but also a lovely ride on an e-bike or electric cargo bike.
21.7 km2 – 2.5 hours
MTB-route Harderwijk
21.7 kilometres of singletrack through the Leuvenumse bos and the Beekhuizerzand. A varied mountain bike route for beginners and experienced riders alike.
23 km2.5 – 3 hours
MTB-route Ermelo
23 kilometres of flowing singletrack across the Ermelosche Heide and through the Speulderbos. Less technical than Harderwijk, but with 171 metres of climbing and a rhythm that keeps challenging you.
Cycling routes from Harderwijk: what can you expect?
The area around Harderwijk is wonderfully varied. Dense Veluwe forests alternate with open sandy plains, heathland and polder landscape along the water. That variety means a cycling route here is never dull. You set your own pace and adapt the route to your group.
The best-known areas you'll pass along the way:
The Beekhuizerzand
An area of drift sand covering around 200 hectares, right in the middle of the Veluwe. With open sandy plains, sweeping views and a wildness you won't find this close to town anywhere else. On a bike you'll ride through it quickly, but it's worth stopping for a while.
The Ermelosche Heide
Quieter and flatter than the Beekhuizerzand. Ideal if you want to enjoy the heath at a relaxed pace without too much pedalling uphill.
The Veluwemeer and Wolderwijd
For those who prefer to ride along the water. Wide cycle paths, wind in your hair and views across open water. A lovely contrast with the wooded interior.
The historic town centre
Cycling in Harderwijk also means riding through the Hanseatic town itself. Old streets, terraces, the harbour. Or carry on to Strandeiland Harderwijk on the Wolderwijd, where sand and water meet. Combine a nature ride with a spin through the centre and you've got a complete day out.
GOOD TO KNOW
Frequently asked questions about cycling routes in Harderwijk
What are the best cycling routes in Harderwijk?
The most popular routes combine town and nature. From Harderwijk you cycle through the historic town centre towards the Leuvenumse bos, the Beekhuizerzand and the Ermelosche Heide. Depending on what you fancy, choose a relaxed ride along the water or a more active route with more climbing. View cycling routes in and around Harderwijk.
Where do the cycling routes in Harderwijk start?
All Outdoor Harderwijk routes start at Boekhorstlaan 1, a few minutes from the town centre. Free parking on site, and you get a route description when you set off. You ride straight into nature.
Are the cycling routes suitable for beginners?
Yes. De Veluwse Natuurroute and De Outdoor Fietsroute are suitable for everyone: flat roads, well signposted and easy to ride on an e-bike or e-chopper. For those looking for more of a challenge, there are two MTB routes with singletrack and climbs.
Which routes go through nature?
Almost all routes run through the Veluwe. You cycle through the Leuvenumse bos, across the Ermelosche Heide and past the Beekhuizerzand. De Outdoor Fietsroute also takes you along the Wolderwijd and through the centre of Ermelo: every landscape in one route.
Are there mountain bike routes near Harderwijk?
Yes, two. MTB-route Harderwijk (21.7 km) runs through the Leuvenumse bos and the Beekhuizerzand, with singletrack for beginners and experienced riders. MTB-route Ermelo (23 km) is a little less technical, but with 171 metres of climbing it does call for some fitness.
Can I get something to eat or drink along the way?
Definitely. You'll find cafés and restaurants in Harderwijk, Ermelo and along the route. Prefer to have it all sorted? Before you set off, halfway through or afterwards, you're welcome at Outdoor Harderwijk for lunch, drinks or a BBQ. Thijs and Anne are happy to help put together a package that suits your day.
Can I hire a bike in Harderwijk?
Yes. At Outdoor Harderwijk you can hire e-bikes, e-choppers, e-scooters, mountain bikes and electric cargo bikes. So you can head straight out on the route without bringing your own gear.