CYCLING ROUTE · DRENTHE

Cycling Route Heart of Drenthe and Monument Village Orvelte

This cycling route near Beilen through the Heart of Drenthe passes forests, heathland, pools, drifting sand and small streams, with quiet country roads, flower rich verges and thatched farmhouses along the way.

Cycling route Heart of Drenthe and Monument Village Orvelte

The Landscape

The Heart of Drenthe forms a vast and continuous nature area where nature and farmland blend seamlessly. During this cycling route you ride through forests and heathland, past stream valleys and drifting sand, while new views open across es fields, heathland and quiet country roads.
The cultural historical highlight of this cycling route is the monument village of Orvelte. This lively open air museum was officially designated as a protected village site in 1967 and has been carefully restored to reflect the situation of 1832. Historic farmhouses, cobblestones and old brick streets define the atmosphere, while traditional workshops and small shops bring the past to life.

What You'll Discover Along the Way

Forests and heathland in the Heart of Drenthe

Forests and Heaths

Long stretches of quiet conifer forests and open heathland create a calm and sheltered cycling experience with plenty of nature around you.

Historic farmhouses and heritage around Orvelte

Estates and Heritage

Historic farmyards and old farmhouses reveal the long connection between people and the landscape, especially around the monument village of Orvelte.

Marshes and peatlands in the Heart of Drenthe

Marshes and Peatlands

Small lakes and wet nature areas in the lower parts of the landscape create varied scenery and provide important habitat for birds and wildlife.

Streams and waterways in the Heart of Drenthe

Rivers and Streams

Small streams and waterways wind through the landscape, contrasting with the open heathland and fields and giving the route a calm natural flow.

Virtual Cycling Through the Heart of Drenthe and Orvelte

Virtual cycling through the Heart of Drenthe takes you past forests, heathland and quiet pools, with long straight paths that are ideal for a steady pace on your indoor trainer. Along the way you also ride through Orvelte, the monument village of Drenthe, with historic farmhouses and a distinctive village atmosphere.

Virtual cycling through the Heart of Drenthe and Monument Village Orvelte

Experience the route from home with virtual cycling.

Route Map and Cycling Junctions

Start and finish at cycling junction 90 on the Hoofdstraat in Westerbork. Because this is a circular route, you can also start at one of the other cycling junctions along the route.
90 97 78 66 56 50 54 58 24 3 34 82 8 7 36 38 39 1 48 49 26 91 90

Route Details

Distance 60 km
Riding time 4 h 3 min
Elevation gain 47 m
Paved 68%
Unpaved / semi-paved 32%
Ideal for E-bikes & city bikes

Along the way: several options for a coffee break or lunch.

Discover More Cycling Routes

Explore more Drenthe landscapes and find your next cycling adventure in nature.

EXPLORE ALL CYCLING ROUTES IN DRENTHE →