Cycling in the Dwingelderveld

The park

The Dwingelderveld has been a national park since 1991 and a Natura 2000 site since 2013. Across about 3,700 hectares, wet heath, dry sand ridges, forest and more than forty fens alternate. Natuurmonumenten and Staatsbosbeheer manage the area together with private owners.

Two flocks of Drenthe heath sheep, each with its own shepherd, keep the heath open. During the day they head out from the sheepfolds near Ruinen and Lhee.

The cycle route

The main route through the park is about 30 kilometres and starts at the Dwingelderveld Visitor Centre (Benderse 22, Ruinen). Follow cycle junctions 57, 83, 32, 43, 44, 95, 98, 88, 86 and 56. For a shorter ride, head back to Ruinen via Kraloo and Anholt.

The paths are concrete, asphalt and shell: easy on an e-bike or a classic bike. The route is meant for (electric) bikes at a relaxed pace, so take your time and mind the walkers.

Along the way

• Benderse Berg: A viewpoint in the middle of the heath, formed in the penultimate Ice Age.
• Dwingeloo radio telescope: Built around 1956 and briefly the largest in the world, now a national monument.
• Davidsplassen: The largest water in the park, with a bird hide a few minutes’ walk from junction 88.
• Holtveenslenk: Wet peatland with sphagnum moss, cross-leaved heath and sundew.
• Ruinen sheepfold: Next to the visitor centre, with a tall lookout tower.
• Anserdennen: Old sand dunes with pine forest and a tea house.

When does the heather bloom?

Cross-leaved heath flowers from June to September. The big purple carpets of common heather usually appear from the third week of August. The visitor centre opens Tuesday to Sunday from April to November; check current opening hours before you go.

Good to know

• Dogs on a lead, except in the marked off-lead areas.
• Stay on the cycle paths; the family trails are not for cyclists.
• Speed pedelecs and e-choppers are not allowed on the main route.