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Netherlands
Drenthe

Meppel

The best cycling routes around Meppel

4.5

(482)

4,063

riders

246

rides

Touring cycling routes around Meppel are characterized by a flat, water-rich landscape, featuring numerous canals and proximity to significant natural areas. The region serves as a gateway to National Park Weerribben-Wieden, known for its low peat swamps, reed beds, and waterways. Cyclists can also experience the varied terrain of the Drenthe province, which includes sandy soils and heathlands. The area's waterways, such as the Reest River, contribute to scenic routes.

Best touring cycling routes around Meppel

  • The most popular touring cycling route is Zwartsluis – Schutsloterpad loop from Meppel, a 29.4 miles (47.3 km) trail that takes 2 hours 45 minutes to complete. This moderate route features scenic waterways and open landscapes.
  • Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Holtingerveld Nature Reserve – Dolmen D53 loop from Nieuwveense Landen, a moderate 33.3 miles (53.6 km) path. This route traverses the Holtingerveld Nature Reserve, offering varied natural scenery.
  • Local touring cyclists also love the Zwartsluis – Meppel Harbor and Windmills loop from Meppel, a 16.9 miles (27.3 km) trail leading through Meppel Harbor and past windmills, often completed in about 1 hour 36 minutes.
  • Touring cycling around Meppel is defined by its flat, water-rich environment, extensive canals, and proximity to reed beds and heathlands. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and more challenging ability levels.
  • The routes in Meppel are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 400 reviews. More than 4000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Meppel's varied terrain.

Last updated: May 8, 2026

4.7

(74)

276

riders

#1.

Zwartsluis – Giethoorn Canals loop from Meppel

46.8km

02:43

40m

40m

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Cycling Collection by

Tessa Mul

Tips from the Community

Gabrielle
March 20, 2026, Watertoren van Meppel

View of the water tower

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A beautiful, small, and above all quiet place. I had a few beads of sweat on my forehead before every bridge. Some of them seem to be a bit dated. And were they expecting heavily laden e-bike tourists back then? I don't know :) But it all held up.

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Very interesting

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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

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Very nice cycle path, highly recommended.

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The three church roads owe their name to this Church

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Beautiful village to visit. Can be reached on foot or by boat

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Pure tourism, but still worth seeing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many touring cycling routes are available around Meppel?

There are over 240 touring cycling routes around Meppel, catering to various skill levels. You'll find approximately 130 easy routes, 90 moderate routes, and 15 more challenging options to explore the region's flat, water-rich landscape.

What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while cycling near Meppel?

The region around Meppel is characterized by its flat, water-rich environment, featuring numerous canals, rivers like the Reest, and expansive reed beds. You'll also find yourself near the unique National Park Weerribben-Wieden, known for its low peat swamps and diverse wildlife. The broader Drenthe province offers varied terrain, including sandy soils and heathlands, providing a rich backdrop for your rides.

Are there any circular touring cycling routes around Meppel?

Yes, many touring cycling routes around Meppel are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Zwartsluis – Schutsloterpad loop from Meppel, a moderate 47.3 km route that takes you through scenic waterways and open landscapes.

What are some notable natural attractions to see along the cycling routes?

Cycling routes around Meppel often pass by beautiful natural attractions. You can explore areas like the Reestdal Nature Reserve, the serene Bosveen, or the expansive Holtingerveld Nature Reserve. Many routes also feature picturesque lakes such as Giethoorn Lake.

Are there any historical or cultural landmarks accessible by bike?

Absolutely. The region offers several historical and cultural points of interest. You might encounter ancient sites like Dolmen D53 within the Holtingerveld Nature Reserve, or the unique Bomb Craters on the Havelteberg. Meppel itself, with its canals and historical significance, adds a cultural dimension to your tour. Consider the Zwartsluis – Meppel Harbor and Windmills loop from Meppel to experience local charm.

What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Meppel?

The flat terrain and well-maintained paths make Meppel suitable for touring cycling for much of the year. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for enjoying the open landscapes and waterways. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, especially in areas like the Drenthe province with its heathlands.

Are there family-friendly cycling routes in the Meppel area?

Yes, many of the routes around Meppel are suitable for families due to the predominantly flat terrain and dedicated cycleways. The Zwartsluis – Meppel Harbor and Windmills loop from Meppel is an easy 27.3 km route that could be a great option for a family outing, offering gentle scenery and points of interest.

Can I cycle to Giethoorn from Meppel?

Yes, Giethoorn, often called the 'Venice of the North,' is easily accessible by bike from Meppel. A popular route is the Wooden Bridge in Giethoorn – Bovenboersepad Wooden Bridge loop from Meppel, a moderate 41.9 km tour that allows you to experience this unique car-free village with its canals and thatched farmhouses.

What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Meppel?

The touring cycling routes in Meppel are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 470 reviews. Cyclists often praise the quiet, well-maintained paths, the serene water-rich landscapes, and the variety of natural and cultural sights along the way.

Are there routes that explore the Holtingerveld Nature Reserve?

Yes, the Holtingerveld Nature Reserve is a popular destination for touring cyclists. The Holtingerveld Nature Reserve – Dolmen D53 loop from Nieuwveense Landen is a moderate 53.6 km route that traverses this varied natural area, offering a chance to see its unique landscapes and historical features like Dolmen D53.

Are there any routes that feature windmills or traditional Dutch scenery?

Absolutely. The region around Meppel is rich in traditional Dutch scenery, including windmills. The Zwartsluis – Meppel Harbor and Windmills loop from Meppel is an excellent easy route that takes you past Meppel Harbor and offers views of classic windmills, providing a quintessential Dutch cycling experience.

What is the terrain like for touring cycling in Meppel?

The terrain around Meppel is predominantly flat, making it ideal for touring cyclists of all levels. While the landscape is generally level, you'll encounter varied surfaces from paved cycle paths to quieter country roads, especially as you explore areas like the Drenthe province with its sandy soils and heathlands.

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