Let’s not beat about the bush – this mountain bike route is not for beginners. The Trans Netherlands Mountain Biking Route runs 360 miles (580 km) from the North cape in Groningen to the corner where the Netherlands meets Belgium and Germany in South Limburg. In other words, the route runs from the northernmost point of the Dutch mainland to the Vaalserberg, the highest point in the Netherlands. With 9,840 feet (3,000 m) of elevation gain, you will also encounter plenty of climbs. The Trans Netherlands Mountain Biking Route – developed by local MTB pioneers – is the Dutch equivalent, OK maybe the little brother, of the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route in the USA, the mother of long-distance off-road routes.

The route takes you through a great diversity of natural beauty, from vast heathlands to dense coniferous forests as you ride through several national parks. To begin, you enjoy views of the Wadden region before riding south towards the Salland Hills and the Maasduinen National Park. Each area has its own unique characteristics and natural charm.

As well as beautiful nature, you will also pass cultural and historical sites. The Drenthe dolmens, historic towns and villages, ancient monuments and archeological sites all lie en route.

Along the way, you ride along gravel roads and technical single tracks, covering a large number of the Netherland’s official mountain bike trails (remember, for some of them you need to pre-purchase a so-called vignette!). Around 65% of the route is along unpaved terrain. This makes the Trans Netherlands Mountain Biking Route a real challenge with long days in the saddle.

The route is best ridden with a mountain bike, but a gravel bike is also a possible option. The segments along the official mountain bike routes will be more difficult to ride on a gravel bike.

The route is divided into seven stages, bringing the average daily distance to around 50 miles (80 km). At the end of each stage you can stay at a hotel or B&B, or at a campsite. This makes your Trans Netherlands route a true bikepacking adventure.

With bikepacking everything revolves around the adventure in the open air. This brings with it a number of responsibilities to keep the impact on the environment and nature as small as possible. Large parts of the route take you along narrow country roads and towpaths. Therefore, do not start with large groups. Be prepared for other (road) users and recreational users. Keep your rubbish with you, of course, until you find a bin.

Please note: since the creation of this route there have been some changes. Certain sections are now asphalted and some trails have been diverted. You may have to improvise here and there. But that shouldn't stand in the way of the real adventurers!