The best traffic-free bike rides around Aa En Hunze

Aa en Hunze offers a wide selection of traffic-free road cycling routes, with over 170 tours available. These routes allow you to explore the beautiful landscapes of Drenthe without the disturbance of heavy traffic.

Yes, there are plenty of options for beginners. Approximately 40 of the traffic-free road cycling routes in Aa en Hunze are rated as 'easy', making them perfect for those new to road cycling or looking for a relaxed ride. An example of an easy route is the Saint Magnus Church, Anloo – View of the Deurzerdiep loop from Anderen, which covers about 35 km.

The best seasons for road cycling in Aa en Hunze are spring (April-June) and autumn (September-November). During these times, you'll experience mild temperatures and beautiful scenery, from blooming flowers in spring to vibrant fall foliage in autumn, making your ride even more enjoyable.

The routes in Aa en Hunze often pass through stunning natural areas and past historical sites. You can cycle through the UNESCO Geopark Hondsrug Ridge, the Drentsche Aa National Park with its meandering streams, or the peaceful Hunze Valley. Keep an eye out for ancient burial mounds known as Hunebedden, such as Dolmen D10, Gasteren or Dolmen D11, Anloo. Many routes also feature picturesque lakes like Lake Gasselterveld.

Absolutely! Many of the 'easy' rated routes are ideal for families, offering safe and enjoyable cycling experiences away from traffic. The region's flat terrain and well-maintained paths through forests and heathlands provide a pleasant environment for all ages. Consider routes that pass through charming villages for convenient stops.

Yes, the majority of the traffic-free road cycling routes in Aa en Hunze are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end your ride at the same point. This makes planning your trip much easier. An example is the Molen van Rolde – De Juffer Windmill, Rolde loop from Gieten, which is a moderate 62 km circular tour.

Route lengths vary significantly, from shorter rides of around 16 km, like the Cobbled section Looweg – Gieten Windmill loop from Gieten, to longer tours exceeding 80 km, such as the Assen - VAM-berg Loop. The elevation gain is generally modest, reflecting Drenthe's relatively flat landscape, with most routes featuring less than 150 meters of ascent, even on longer rides.

Yes, Aa en Hunze is dotted with charming villages and towns where you can find local cafes and restaurants. Many routes are designed to pass through or near these villages, offering convenient spots to take a break, enjoy a coffee, or grab a meal. Look for stops in places like Gasselternijveen or Rolde.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil, car-free environment, the diverse and picturesque landscapes ranging from forests to heathlands, and the well-maintained paved roads that make for smooth cycling. The opportunity to discover historical sites like Hunebedden also adds to the appeal.

Many villages and towns within Aa en Hunze, which serve as starting points for these routes, offer public parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific route descriptions for recommended parking areas near the start of your chosen tour. Popular starting points like Gieten or Anloo usually have convenient parking options.

While many routes are well-known, the extensive network of paths through areas like the Hunze Valley and Het Drouwenerzand Nature Reserve often reveal quieter sections and less-traveled paths. Exploring the smaller loops that connect through these natural reserves can lead to a more secluded and immersive cycling experience, away from even local traffic.