Introduction
The Netherlands is a true paradise for motorcyclists, with a surprising diversity of landscapes en routes perfect for two-wheelers. Whether you like vast polders, winding dikes, or wooded hills, our little country has it all.
Diversity in Dutch landscapes
From de iconic Afsluitdijk in the north to de rolling hills of Limburg in the south, the Netherlands offers an array of breathtaking views. Think of de vast moorlands of de Veluwe, de picturesque villages along de coast of Zeeland, en de mysterious forests of de Utrechtse Heuvelrug. Each region has its own unique character, making for a varied driving experience.
The importance of well-planned routes
A well-planned route is essential for an optimal motorcycle experience. It allows you to discover de most beautiful spots, find quiet roads, en tailor your ride to your preferences. It also allows you to take into account sightseeing, refueling stops en cozy cafes along the way.
In de following sections, we dive deeper into five of de most beautiful motorcycle routes the Netherlands has to offer. These carefully curated routes will introduce you to de diversity of our country en promise an unforgettable experience on de .
De Afsluitdijk: A Unique Hydraulic Experience
De Afsluitdijk, a masterpiece of Dutch hydraulic engineering, offers motorcyclists a unique experience. Separating the IJsselmeer from de Wadden Sea, this 32-kilometer-long dike is not only a crucial part of our coastal defenses, but also a spectacular route for motorcycle enthusiasts.
A ride on water
During your drive across de Afsluitdijk, you feel as if you are floating over the water. Endless expanses of water stretch out on both sides, giving a sense of freedom not experienced anywhere else in the Netherlands. The contrast between de sleek line of de dike en de vast expanses of water creates a surreal landscape.
Highlights along the way
Halfway down de dike you will find the Monument, a vantage point that offers a panoramic view of both the IJsselmeer and de Wadden Sea. This is de perfect place for a photo stop en to admire de grandeur of Dutch water management.
Tips for a safe ride
- Consider strong crosswinds, especially on high-profile motorcycles.
- Bring plenty of fuel; there are limited gas stations on de .
- Wear a helmet with good wind protection for optimal comfort.
For de best protection from de elements during your ride across de Afsluitdijk, consider a helmet with excellent aerodynamics en wind protection. Vespucci offers a wide selection of top quality helmets perfect for this unique route.

Read more: De ultimate guide to long-distance motorcycling
Veluwezoom: Nature's Splendor on Two Wheels
De Veluwezoom, a beautiful nature reserve in the heart of the Netherlands, offers motorcyclists an unforgettable experience. With its varied landscape of forests, moors en sand drifts, it is a paradise for two-wheeled enthusiasts.
Features of the Veluwezoom nature reserve
De Veluwezoom is characterized by its rolling hills, dense forests en vast heathlands. The area is part of the Veluwezoom National Park en offers a unique blend of nature en culture. Motorcyclists can enjoy winding roads that lead through picturesque villages en past historic estates.
Important sights en viewpoints
During your drive through de Veluwezoom, there are several must-see locations:
- De Posbank: A famous vantage point that offers breathtaking views of de moors en forests.
- Rozendaal Castle: A beautiful 17th-century castle surrounded by a picturesque landscape.
- Loenermark: An area with beautiful sand drifts en wild horses.
Practical information on accessibility en parking
De Veluwezoom is easily accessible for motorcyclists. There are several parking lots scattered throughout the area, such as at Veluwezoom visitor center en near de Posbank. It is advisable to leave early, especially on weekends, to avoid crowds.
For a comfortable ride through de changing landscapes of de Veluwezoom, a helmet with good ventilation is essential. Make sure you set out well prepared en enjoy de beautiful nature this route has to offer.
Utrechtse Heuvelrug: Historic Estates en Forests
De Utrechtse Heuvelrug is a hidden gem for motorcyclists, with its unique combination of historic estates en vast forests. This route offers a perfect blend of natural beauty en cultural heritage, ideal for a relaxing day of touring.
Winding roads through ancient forests
De winds through dense forests of majestic beech en oak trees, where sunlight plays among de leaves. These shady avenues offer not only cooling on hot days, but also a beautiful play of light en shade that makes every turn exciting.
Stately estates en castles
Along the way, you'll pass several impressive estates en castles, such as Amerongen Castle en Zuylestein Estate. These historic locations are perfect stops to take a break en discoverde rich history.
Interesting stopovers
- National Military Museum in Soest: A must-visit for history buffs.
- De Pyramid of Austerlitz: A unique monument with stunning views of de surrounding area.
- Amerongse Berg: The highest point of de Utrecht Hill Ridge, ideal for a panoramic photo stop.
For a comfortable ride through de varied landscapes of de Utrechtse Heuvelrug, a helmet with good ventilation en visibility is essential. Make sure you set off well prepared en enjoy de wonderful combination of nature en culture this route has to offer.

Zeeland Coast: Salty Sea Air en Coastal Landscapes
De Zeeland coast offers motorcyclists a unique experience with its salty sea air en beautiful coastal landscapes. This route takes you past picturesque villages, vast dunes en historical landmarks, giving you a taste of de essence of Zeeland.
Features of de Zeeland coastal route
Zeeland'De coastal route is characterized by winding dike roads en panoramic views of de North Sea. You ride alternately through open polders en sheltered dune areas, making for a varied driving experience. De fresh sea breeze en sound of de surf provide de perfect soundtrack to your ride.
Highlights along de coastline
- Neeltje Jans: Visit this former working island of de Eastern Scheldt storm surge barrier for an impressive feat of hydraulic engineering.
- Domburg: Make a stop in this charming seaside town, known for its beautiful beach en artists' past.
- Brouwersdam: Enjoy the view of Lake Grevelingen en possibly spot seals.
Culinary tips on the go
No visit to Zeeland is complete without sampling local de . Enjoy fresh mussels in Yerseke, taste de famous Zeeland bolussen in Middelburg, or pause for a delicious portion of kibbeling in one of de many coastal towns.
For a comfortable ride along de coast of Zeeland, where wind en salt can surprise you, a helmet with good protection from de is essential. Make sure you set out well prepared en enjoy de unique combination of land en sea that this route has to offer.
Drentsche Aa: Serene Nature in the North
The Drentsche Aa National Park is a hidden gem in the north of the Netherlands, perfect for motorcyclists seeking tranquility en natural beauty. This unique area offers a serene riding experience through a varied landscape of meandering stream valleys, vast heathlands en picturesque villages.
Unique landscape elements
De route takes you along de winding course of de Drentsche Aa, one of de last naturally meandering streams in the Netherlands. Along the way you pass:
- Century-old ash villages such as Anloo en Gasteren
- Vast heathlands that turn a beautiful purple in August en September
- Mysterious dolmens, relics de prehistory
Ideal for a relaxing ride
This route is perfect for motorcyclists who want to escape de crowds for a while:
- Quiet, well-maintained roads with little traffic
- Numerous opportunities to stop en enjoy the view
- Cozy terraces in authentic Drenthe villages for a well-deserved break
For a comfortable ride through de changing landscapes of de Drentsche Aa, a helmet with good ventilation en visibility is essential. This way you can fully enjoy de fresh forest air en de beautiful vistas this route has to offer.
Practical Tips for Motorcycling in the Netherlands
The Netherlands is a beautiful country to explore by de , but it's important to be well prepared to hit the road. Here are some practical tips to make your motorcycle adventure in the Netherlands as enjoyable as possible.
Best seasons for motorcycling in the Netherlands
Spring en summer De ideal for motorcycling in the Netherlands. From April to September, you can enjoy pleasant temperatures en longer days. Be aware that the weather can sometimes be unpredictable, even in de .
Essential equipment for Dutch weather conditions
- Waterproof clothing: A must-have because of de chance of rain.
- Layered clothing: Useful for changing temperatures.
- Sunglasses: Protects against bright sun en insects.
- Gloves: Both for warmth and protection.
Road safety en regulations for motorcyclists
- Stick to de speed limit: 130 km/h on highways, 100 km/h on county roads.
- Always wear a helmet: This is mandatory in the Netherlands.
- Drive defensively: Be alert to cyclists en pedestrians, especially in cities.
- Parking: Inquire about local rules for motorcycle parking.
By observing these tips, you will ensure a safe en enjoyable motorcycling experience in the Netherlands. Enjoy de beautiful routes en varied scenery our country has to offer!
Accommodations along de Routes
If you want to explore de beautiful motorcycle routes of the Netherlands, it is important to also think about where to stay overnight. Fortunately, there are numerous options along de that perfectly suit de needs of motorcyclists.
Overview of accommodation types
Along de described routes you will find a wide range of accommodation options:
- Campsites: Ideal for motorcyclists who like to stay close de nature.
- B&Bs: Cozy, small-scale accommodations with a personal touch.
- Hotels: From simple to luxury options, often with special amenities for motorcyclists.
- Cottages: Perfect for groups or longer stays.
Tips for motorcycle-friendly places to stay overnight
When choosing an overnight spot, note:
- Secure parking for your motorcycle
- Drying area for wet motorcycle clothing
- Ability to make minor repairs
- Flexible breakfast times for early risers
Recommendations in natural areas
- Veluwe: Nature campsite 'De Wildhoeve' in Emst, in the middle of the forest
- Utrechtse Heuvelrug: B&B 'De Posthoorn' in Doorn, a historic building with motorcycle-friendly facilities
- Zeeland coast: beach hotel Duinheuvel in Domburg, with sea views en dedicated motorcycle parking spaces
By cleverly choosing where to stay, you will make your motorcycle adventure through the Netherlands even more complete. That way you can start each new day on de motorcycle rested en full of energy.
Conclusion
The Netherlands is a true motorcycle paradise with a surprising diversity of landscapes en routes. From de iconic Afsluitdijk to de scenic Veluwezoom, our small country offers a wealth of breathtaking views en unique riding experiences.
Summary de diversity in Dutch motorcycle routes
- De Afsluitdijk: An impressive feat of hydraulic engineering with panoramic views
- Veluwezoom: Rolling hills, dense forests en vast heathlands
- Utrecht Ridge: Historic estates en winding roads through ancient forests
- Zeeland Coast: Salty sea air, picturesque villages en beautiful coastal landscapes
- Drentsche Aa: Serene nature with meandering stream valleys en mysterious dolmens
Encouragement to explore the Netherlands by de
Grab your motorcycle en discover our country' de hidden gems. Whether you enjoy challenging curves, cultural sights or unspoiled nature, the Netherlands has something for every motorcyclist. Just make sure you set out well prepared, with de right equipment for varying weather conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is de best time to ride motorcycles in the Netherlands: Spring en summer (April to September) offer de most pleasant riding conditions, but be prepared for changeable weather.
- Are there special rules for motorcyclists in the Netherlands: Yes, wearing a helmet is mandatory, en stick to de speed limits: 130 km/h on highways en 100 km/h on provincial roads.
- Where to stay during my motorcycle trip through the Netherlands: There are numerous options, from campsites en B&Bs to motorcycle-friendly hotels. Look for accommodations with secure parking for your motorcycle.
- Are de Dutch roads suitable for motorcyclists? Absolutely! The Netherlands is known for its well-maintained roads. Just be aware of cyclists en pedestrians, especially in urban areas.
- What sights should I not miss during my motorcycle ride? Some highlights are de Posbank in de Veluwezoom, de Oosterscheldekering in Zeeland, en de dolmens in Drenthe.
- What about gas stations along de ? The Netherlands has a dense network of gas stations. Along highways you will find manned stations 24/7, in rural areas watch for more limited opening hours.
- Is it necessary to use toll roads in the Netherlands? No, the Netherlands does not have toll roads. All highways en provincial roads are free to use.
- What to do in case of breakdown on the road: Make sure you have good roadside assistance insurance. De ANWB offers comprehensive assistance for motorcyclists throughout the Netherlands.
- Are there special events for motorcyclists in the Netherlands: Yes, there are several motorcycle events such as de TT Assen en various touring tours throughout the year. Check motorcycle clubs en event calendars for current information.
- What about parking in Dutch cities: Many cities have special parking spaces for motorcycles, often free of charge. Do inquire about local rules, as they may vary from one municipality to another.