The best traffic-free bike rides around Drents-Friese Wold
4.6
(57)
1,110
riders
69
rides
No traffic gravel bike trails around Drents-Friese Wold traverse a diverse landscape of pine and deciduous forests, open heathlands, and shifting sand dunes. The region features numerous small lakes, ponds, and stream valleys, offering varied terrain for gravel biking. Elevation gains are generally low, with most ascents being gentle hills rather than mountains. The extensive network of unpaved paths and dirt tracks makes it suitable for gravel bikes.
Best no traffic gravel bike trails around Drents-Friese Wold
- The most popular no traffic gravel bike trail is Dwingelerveld National Park loop from Geeuwenbrug, a 43.2 miles (69.5 km) trail that takes 4 hours 50 minutes to complete. This route features moderate elevation changes across varied terrain.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Bosveen – View over Holtingerveld loop from Diever, a moderate 35.6 miles (57.4 km) path. This route offers views over the Holtingerveld and includes sections through forests and open landscapes.
- Local gravel bikers also love the Dwingeloo Radio Telescope – Dwingelderveld National Park loop from Geeuwenbrug, a 33.2 miles (53.4 km) trail leading through Dwingelderveld National Park, often completed in about 3 hours 50 minutes.
- Gravel biking around Drents-Friese Wold is defined by its forests, heathlands, and shifting sand dunes, with routes that often follow unpaved paths and cycleways. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate to more challenging rides.
- The routes in Drents-Friese Wold are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 40 reviews. More than 900 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Drents-Friese Wold's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
4.7
(9)
100
riders
69.5km
04:49
80m
70m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
4.0
(1)
86
riders
46.4km
03:25
70m
70m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
1.0
(1)
34
riders
38.6km
02:05
60m
60m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
18
riders
28.1km
01:58
40m
40m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
This route is closed from March 1st to November 1st!!!
0
0
Here you can enjoy a good cup of coffee or tea.
2
0
A route that combines beautiful scenery, occasionally technical trails, and some flowy tracks. Unfortunately, there are no grazers in this area anymore due to the wolf, although a herd of horses is said to live there. Incidentally, I've never seen a wolf there.
0
0
The route is no longer cycleable. There are many trees on the path, and the paths are closed.
1
0
The second-largest dolmen in the Netherlands can be found in Havelte. Dolmen D53 is the only dolmen damaged during the war. The German air force wanted to build an airfield at this location, so the stones were moved. The airfield was bombed to pieces, and the dolmen was excavated and reassembled. The dolmen is approximately 18 meters long, almost complete, and lies on the edge of a heathland. Along with dolmens D54 and D52, it is one of the few in this part of Drenthe. Dolmen D54 is slightly smaller than D53. It lies in the middle of a small sandy plain surrounded by grass. It is a beautiful walking area around these dolmens, as the small sandy plain is surrounded by heathland, small forests, and meadows. Dolmen D53 and D54 are a must-see on your dolmen tour because they are complete, well-maintained, and impressive. If you're coming from Havelte, you can follow the main road, which will take you past a side road. If you take this, the dolmen is almost immediately on your left. Continue driving a little further, and you'll find dolmen D54. Source: https://www.drenthe.nl/locaties/1800662783/hunebed-d53-en-d54-1
1
0
D52 is a medium-sized dolmen consisting of six capstones, three of which rest on, and 3 between, the fourteen side stones. Furthermore, there are two closing stones and one portal stone. The position of the other portal stone is marked with a lead seal. One capstone is missing. During the inventory by Van Giffen in 1918, the dolmen was described as being "in a completely dilapidated state". The stones lying scattered here and there no longer deserved the name dolmen. Under his leadership, the dolmen was thoroughly restored in 1953/54, during which most of the side stones had to be re-erected and secured. Archaeologists today believe that Van Giffen went too far in his restoration zeal. For example, he could no longer determine the function of six stones himself, and even the original number of capstones was unknown to him. Nevertheless, there is now a virtually complete dolmen again. However, it is more the result of guesswork than of a responsible restoration. In November 2008, 3 capstones were defaced with blue paint. The damage was repaired as well as possible shortly thereafter. In early April 2011, a fire was lit in the burial chamber, causing a large crack in one of the supporting stones. This will be repaired as soon as possible.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails can I find in Drents-Friese Wold?
You'll find over 60 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails in the Drents-Friese Wold area, offering a wide range of distances and difficulty levels suitable for various preferences.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these gravel bike trails?
The Drents-Friese Wold offers a diverse gravel biking experience. You'll ride through vast pine and deciduous forests, across open heathlands, and alongside unique shifting sand dunes like the Aekingerzand Sand Dunes. Many routes feature unpaved paths and dirt tracks, providing an authentic gravel experience.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the trails in Drents-Friese Wold?
The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Drents-Friese Wold, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the car-free paths, the varied landscapes from forests to heath, and the well-maintained unpaved sections perfect for gravel bikes.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic gravel routes in Drents-Friese Wold?
Yes, there are several moderate and easy routes suitable for families. For example, the Diever sand – Dolmen D52, Diever loop from Diever is a moderate 24.2 km route that allows you to explore the landscape without heavy traffic, and it passes by the ancient Hunebed D52.
Can I find circular gravel bike routes without cars in the Drents-Friese Wold?
Absolutely. Many of the gravel routes in Drents-Friese Wold are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. Routes like the Bosveen – View over Holtingerveld loop from Diever offer a great circular experience through varied scenery.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the no-traffic gravel bike trails?
You'll encounter a wealth of natural beauty and historical sites. Keep an eye out for the dynamic Aekingerzand Sand Dunes, various small lakes such as Grenspoel and Ganzenpoel, and ancient megalithic tombs like the Hunebed D52 near Diever. Observation towers also offer panoramic views of the heathlands.
Are there any longer distance no-traffic gravel bike routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for those seeking a longer challenge, routes like the Dwingelerveld National Park loop from Geeuwenbrug cover nearly 70 km, offering extensive stretches of unpaved paths and a good workout without traffic.
What is the best time of year for no-traffic gravel biking in Drents-Friese Wold?
Spring and autumn are particularly beautiful for gravel biking in Drents-Friese Wold. In spring, the forests burst with new growth, while autumn brings stunning colors to the deciduous trees. Summer is also pleasant, especially when the heathlands are in bloom, transforming the landscape with purple hues. Winter can be ridden, but be prepared for colder, potentially wetter conditions.
Are there any cafes or amenities along the no-traffic gravel routes?
While many routes focus on natural immersion, you'll find amenities in the villages surrounding the park, such as Diever and Appelscha. The Buitencentrum Drents-Friese Wold near Appelscha serves as a visitor center and often has facilities. Planning your route with komoot can help you identify potential stops for refreshments.
Where can I park my car to access the no-traffic gravel bike trails?
There are various parking options available at the main entry points to Drents-Friese Wold National Park and in nearby villages like Diever and Geeuwenbrug. These often serve as starting points for many of the marked trails, including gravel routes. Look for designated parking areas near visitor centers or trailheads.
Are there any easy no-traffic gravel bike trails suitable for beginners?
Yes, Drents-Friese Wold offers several easier routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. These trails typically have less elevation gain and smoother unpaved sections, allowing you to enjoy the scenery at a comfortable pace. Always check the route's difficulty grade on komoot before heading out.
Can I access the gravel biking trails using public transport?
Public transport options to the Drents-Friese Wold area exist, primarily by bus to the surrounding towns and villages. From there, you can often cycle directly onto the trail network. It's advisable to check local bus schedules and bike transport policies in advance, especially if you plan to bring your gravel bike on public transport.
Most popular routes around Drents-Friese Wold
Most popular attractions around Drents-Friese Wold
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Gravel rides in other regions.
