Choose a route that suits you

Drenthe is flat, but the MTB routes are not always. 20 km through the forest is harder than 20 km on the road: you steer, brake and accelerate all the time. If in doubt, start with an easy route and add a section if it goes well.

Easy: Ruinen (19.6 km), Zuidwolde West (20.2 km), Havelte Oost (25.7 km)
Moderate: Dwingeloo (19.3 km), Zuidwolde Oost (8.4 km), Diever-Hoogersmilde (22.8 km)
Challenging: Wijster (VAM-berg) (9.4 km), Havelte West (15.5 km)

See all routes with map and GPX

Sand, roots and heath

Many routes run over forest paths with sand and tree roots. In loose sand it helps to keep pedalling steadily in an easy gear and not to brake.
After rain, roots and wooden bridges are slippery. Take corners a bit slower.
Routes can be temporarily closed or diverted, for example for tree felling. Check the route page before you set off.

What to bring

Plenty of water: you will not pass a tap or café everywhere on the routes.
Something to eat, like a banana or a bar, especially on routes over 20 km.
A charged phone with the GPX of the route. The signs are good, but a map helps with diversions.
Layers and a rain jacket. It is cooler in the forest than you think.
A helmet. If you do not have one, rent it from us for €3.50.

What to arrange when you rent

When you book, you enter each rider’s height, so a mountain bike in the right size is ready for you.
You pay a €75 deposit per bike at pick-up, refunded when you return the bike.
Bad weather on the way? Up to 72 hours ahead you can cancel or rebook free of charge.

Your fitness

You do not need to be a racer to have a great day. If you rarely ride, go out for an hour a few times in the weeks before. The route will feel a lot easier.

Want to train more specifically, for a longer route or the climbs of the VAM-berg? IntervalCoach builds a training plan that adapts to your recovery every day, and you can keep using it after your holiday. The app is made by the maker of this website.

Preparing for your MTB ride in Drenthe