The best traffic-free bike rides around Lelystad

There are over 100 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes around Lelystad, offering a wide variety of distances and experiences. Most of these, around 99, are classified as easy, making them accessible for many cyclists.

Lelystad, being on reclaimed land, features a generally flat and expansive polder landscape. This makes for easy touring cycling with vast scenic views. Routes often traverse open fields, follow waterways, and wind through urban forests like Hollandse Hout and Gelderse Hout.

Yes, many of the no traffic touring cycling routes around Lelystad are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Kustdijk Lelystad – View of Lelystad Harbor loop, which offers a pleasant 21 km ride.

Lelystad is rich in nature. Cycling through areas like Oostvaardersplassen, part of Nieuw Land National Park, you might spot geese, waterfowl, red deer, Konik horses, and Heck cattle. Natuurpark Lelystad also offers opportunities to see European bison, wild boars, Przewalski's horses, otters, and beavers.

Absolutely. The flat terrain and numerous dedicated cycle paths make Lelystad ideal for family cycling. Routes through areas like Natuurpark Lelystad or the urban forests are generally safe and enjoyable for all ages. The Beautiful Green Cycling Area – Lelystad Nature Park loop is an easy 24 km option perfect for families.

Many natural areas and cycling paths around Lelystad are dog-friendly, though specific rules may apply in nature reserves like Oostvaardersplassen or Natuurpark Lelystad, especially regarding leashes. Always check local signage. Generally, routes through the urban forests such as Hollandse Hout are suitable for cycling with a dog.

The Houtribdijk, connecting Lelystad to Enkhuizen, offers a unique cycling experience with panoramic views over the Markermeer, making you feel like you're cycling through the sea. There's a lookout point midway for stunning vistas. Additionally, routes along the Markermeer or through the Oostvaardersplassen provide expansive natural views.

You can combine your cycling with visits to several attractions. Consider stopping at Batavialand to see the reconstructed 17th-century VOC ship, the Batavia. For nature lovers, the Oostvaardersplassen Visitor Centre is a great stop. You can also find various birdwatching hides like Birdwatching Hide De Oeverloper or Sea Eagle Observation Hut along certain routes.

Yes, some routes offer longer distances for more extensive touring. For example, the Hollandse Hout Nature Reserve – Lage Vaart Canal loop is a moderate 63 km route that takes you through diverse landscapes without traffic. The Houtribdijk also offers a 27 km stretch to Enkhuizen, which can be part of a longer tour.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 600 ratings. Reviewers often praise the quiet, well-maintained cycle paths, the flat and easy terrain, and the abundant natural beauty, especially the opportunities for wildlife spotting in areas like Oostvaardersplassen and Natuurpark Lelystad.

Spring (April-May) is particularly beautiful due to Flevoland's famous tulip fields, offering a vibrant and fragrant cycling experience. Summer (June-August) provides pleasant weather for longer rides. However, the flat landscape and well-maintained paths make Lelystad enjoyable for no traffic cycling throughout much of the year, weather permitting.

Parking is generally available at various starting points for routes, especially near nature parks and recreational areas. For routes departing from the city center, public parking facilities are available. Many routes also start from residential areas with street parking options.