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MTB-Trails Netherlands Discovering hidden gems
In this article we will share Jeroen's MTB Grand Tour experience and how he conquered MTB tracks in all 12 provinces in just 7 days. We will reveal 5 highlights from the trip and provide insight tips on how to plan your own MTB adventure in the Netherlands.
When you think of the Netherlands, mountain biking might not be the first thing that comes to mind, given its reputation being one of the flattest countries in Europe. Yet, Jeroen set out on a 7-day mounainbike adventure to explore the unexpected trails of a country with 1.3 times more bikes than people.
Watch the videoWatch the videoThe idea behind the trip
Driven by a thirst of adventure and curiosity about new trails, Jeroen decided to discover what mountain biking tracks could be found across his home country. Spoiled by his local trails, he wondered what else the country had to offer. The challenge? To ride an MTB track in each of the 12 provinces, covering 1300km by campervan and riding over 450km of MTB trails - all within just 7 days.
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Planning and Logistics
Imagining 12 provinces in 7 days meant riding through two provinces each day: a morning ride at 9 am and an afternoon ride at 3 pm, ecouraging locals to join. Traveling by camper was ideal, offering the convenience of having all bikes and spare parts at hand, along with the freedom to park, sleep, shower and eat anywhere. The Netherlands, dotted with campsites, made this journey even more delightful, especially the charming farm campsites. If a camper isn't an option for you, there are plenty of small bed & breakfasts or holiday parks where you can book a cozy house or chalet.
The Experience and bike choice
Despite being flat, the Netherlands offer diverse and exciting trails. The highest point of this trip was only 154 meters above sealevel, so don't expect mountains. However, the hilly terrain of limburg, with climbs up to 5 minutes, provides beautiful viewpoints. Other provinces might lack elevation but make up for it with flowy and well-maintained trails. The all-new LECTOR, lightweight, stiff and agile, proved to be the perfect choice for these conditions.
TOP 5 HIGHLIGHTS
Even though the country is small, each province has its unique charm and character, making them all worth a visit. However, trying to explore all 12 provinces in just 7 days is quite ambitious. So here, we have highlighted 5 Spots for you!
Limburg
The region is known for its rolling hills and beautiful scenery. The MTB tracks in Vijlen and Gulpen take you primarily along gravel roads, offering a total of 55 km and 1.200m of climbing. While you won't find many single tracks or flowy trails, you will be rewarded with stunning views and the chance to enjoy Limburgse Vlaai. Be sure to stop at a local bakery to try this traditional pie, which is a protected regional specialty that can only be made and sold in this province.
Get the route Get the route
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Rijssen
The MTB track in Rijssen is a 20km rollercoaster that's very fun to ride! Its unique flow, created by the succession of corners and the use of the landscape's elevation changes, keeps you at a constant high speed. While there are no major technical features, you won't miss them for a moment. If you love riding fast and flowy trails, this is the one to try!
Click here for fast and flowy trails Click here for fast and flowy trails)
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Utrechtse heuvelrug
If you're looking for an abundance of single tracks, you must visit Utrechtse Heuvelrug. This area offers over 100km of interconnected MTB tracks! I started from the GHOST Dealer BikeBear in Veenendaal and covered Amerongen, Leersum, and Kwintelooijen, totaling 56km.
Kwintelooijen is particularly intense and often feared by many riders. This short 2.5km track features 100 meters of climbing and meets modern World Cup XCO standards with its steep climbs and rapid technical downhills.
Amerongen and Leersum, both 18km long and easily connected, are the most well-rounded tracks, offering a perfect blend of flow, technical features, and climbing. They are often considered the top tracks in the area.
GPX Tracks for Utrechtse heuvelrugGPX Tracks for Utrechtse heuvelrug)
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Schoorl
This track was the most surprising part of Jeroens MTB trip. Riding through and over the sand dunes was a unique experience. He didn't realize sand dunes could be so hilly, making the track quite challenging. Additionally, the design and flow of the track were unlike anything else he has encountered which he found to be pleasantly surprising . The only downside of this 15km track is the lack of nearby tracks to combine it with, and its location isn't very central within the Netherlands.
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Drunense duinen
The Netherlands isn't known for its good weather, so when the forecast predicts rain and you still want to ride your bike, head to Drunense Duinen. The sandy terrain drains water well, keeping both you and your bike happy in wet conditions. The Drunen Track is the most popular, featuring 25 km of nice, flowy trails with a few sneaky short uphills. You can also add Giersbergen to your ride, which is 16 km long, offering flowy trails but also some transfer sections. Altogether, it's a pleasant 40 km of riding, which you can reward with a typical local delicacy: Brabants worstenbroodje, or sausage roll in English. We ordered them at Bakkerij Besselink in Udenhout, and they were the best we've ever tasted. Tip: eat them hot.
Click here to get the GPX trackClick here to get the GPX track)
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Wrapping up the experience
Reflecting on his MTB trip through the Netherlands, Jeroen realized how well-organized, maintained, and structured the trail network is in this country. This is all due to the hard work of the volunteers and trail crews who pour their sweat and tears into their local pride. It was great to talk, ride, and experience this passion with the locals, trail crews, and MTB enthusiasts. Mountain biking is truly alive in the Netherlands and its worth your visit!
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