Cycling in Emmen: The Most Beautiful Routes Through Forests, Heathland, and Drenthe Villages

From downtown Emmen, you can cycle through heathland, forests, and villages in just a few minutes. With just a few pedal strokes, you can swap the hustle and bustle of the city for the natural beauty of Drenthe. The area around Emmen is ideal for cyclists: peaceful, green, and diverse. Looking for a quick ride or a multi-day cycling vacation? In and around Emmen, the possibilities are endless.

Emmen is located right in the heart of Drenthe’s cycling route network, with more than 1,200 kilometers of well-maintained trails. From dirt roads to paved routes, from peatlands to village green communities, let Drenthe surprise you!

Exploring Nature and Culture by Bike

Emmen is an ideal starting point for exploring Drenthe by bike. There are bike routes that take you past forests, heathlands, and canals, as well as cultural sites such as museums and historic villages.

Take a ride through the Emmerdennen, one of Drenthe’s oldest forests, or cycle toward the Bargerveen to experience the vast peatland landscape. In villages like Erica, Weiteveen, and Valthe, you can take a break along the way at a café or picnic spot.

Did you know that in Emmen you can cycle right through a piece of history? On the Hondsrug, you’re literally riding over prehistoric ground. Here lie the famous hunebeds, historic symbols of thousands of years of history.

The 6 Most Beautiful Bicycle Routes in Emmen and the Surrounding Area

There are dozens of well-marked bike routes in and around Emmen. Below are a few popular and varied routes.

Van Gogh Bicycle Route

Follow in Vincent van Gogh’s footsteps through the Drenthe countryside! The painter lived in Nieuw-Amsterdam for a few months in 1883. He drew inspiration from the peatlands and the people who worked there. The Van Gogh Bike Route takes you past places Vincent visited or wrote about.

The Hondsrug

The Hondsrug is the only UNESCO Geopark in the Netherlands and a beautiful place for cyclists. This unique route winds through forests, heathland, and villages. Along the way, you can stop at dolmens, scenic overlooks, and cozy restaurants and cafes. There are six themed routes of about 60 kilometers through this nature reserve. The full route is 284 kilometers, making it perfect for avid cyclists.

Knoal Loop

The Knoal Loop is a beautiful, peaceful 42-kilometer route through southeastern Drenthe. Much of this trail runs along the water. You’ll cycle past canals, old bridges, and quaint villages. The landscape is open, and there’s hardly any traffic to be seen. Now that’s a pleasant ride!

The Bargerveen

With a bike routethrough the Bargerveen, you’ll discover the unique peatland area near Weiteveen. The route is suitable for everyone, including e-bikes and adapted bicycles. You’ll ride along unique boardwalks and past lookouts where you can spot rare birds.

VAM-berg Bike Route

Up for a sporting challenge? The VAM Mountain bike route is 60 kilometers long and runs from the heart of Emmen to the highest point in Drenthe. Along the way, you’ll pass through forests, villages, and open plains. On the VAM-berg itself, you’ll naturally enjoy a stunning view of the Drenthe countryside—the ultimate reward after a wonderful ride. This route is highly recommended for mountain bikers!

Randje Drenthe Route

The Randje Drenthe Route is 48 kilometers long and follows the border with Germany. This beautiful route lets you combine exercise, nature, and culture, as forests and built-up areas alternate along the way. In charming villages, you can delve into Drenthe’s history or relax on a patio.

What makes cycling in Emmen special?

Emmen is located in the heart of the cycling province of Drenthe. It’s a peaceful place. The paths are wide, the routes are safe, and the scenery changes every few kilometers. City or tranquility, mountain biking or museums, peatlands or a drink on a terrace… With the bike junction system , you can easily plan your ideal route or day trip by bike.

The routes around Emmen are very varied. That’s why the area is a favorite among families, athletes, and e-bikers alike. The trails are well-maintained and connect to the national cycling network.

An afternoon of cycling or a full cycling vacation? Cycling in the Emmen area is a relaxing way to stay active. Discover the nature and hospitality of Drenthe!

Practical Tips for Your Bike Ride

Cycling in Emmen isn’t just enjoyable—it’s also well organized. With the extensive cycling junction system , you can easily plan your ideal ride. Along the way, numbered signs show you the way. Good to know: at the Fietstransferium Emmen, you can park, hop on a bike, or charge your e-bike.

Along the routes, you can take a break at picnic spots or cozy restaurants and cafes. At Parc Sandur, the menu is full of delicious dishes, and there are charging stations for e-bikes. On hot days, take a ride to the Grote Rietplas. Here, you can cool off on the patio or go for a swim.

Are you planning a multi-day trip? There are many bike-friendly places to stay in the Emmen area, including campgrounds, hotels, and B&Bs with covered bike storage.

For navigation and inspiration, download the Drenthe Route app or stop by Tourist Info Emmen, where maps are available.