CYCLING ROUTE · OVERIJSSEL
Cycling Route National Park Sallandse Heuvelrug and Wierdense Veld
Cycle through a varied and gently rolling landscape with sweeping views of forests, heathlands, living raised bogs, flower rich grasslands, and scenic farmlands.
The Landscape
National Park Sallandse Heuvelrug is one of the most distinctive natural areas in the Netherlands, with vast stretches of dry heathland that are rare on this scale. The ridge was formed during the Ice Age, when glaciers pushed up the land, while meltwater and wind further shaped the landscape. As a result, you cycle through rolling hills and quiet forests, with far reaching views from the higher elevations.
On the eastern side lies the Wierdense Veld, a fragile peatland area with wet grasslands, marshes, and rare living raised bogs. This open landscape often feels serene and almost timeless, especially when mist drifts over the peat and the surroundings seem nearly silent. Thanks to careful conservation management, the raised bog has been preserved, allowing cyclists to experience this unique natural landscape up close.
What You'll Discover Along the Way
Forests and Heaths
On the Sallandse Heuvelrug, you cycle past pine forests and wide heathlands, with sandy paths and open views towards Nijverdal and Hellendoorn. The contrast between sheltered forest edges and open heath creates ever changing scenery along the way. In late summer, when the heath is in bloom, every bend in the route feels like a new viewpoint.
Marshes and Peatlands
In the Wierdense Veld, you cycle through wet grasslands, marshes and rare living raised bogs. Peat retains water, creating a quiet landscape of sphagnum moss, pools and reed fringes. This open wilderness forms a striking contrast with the dry heathlands and forests of the Sallandse Heuvelrug.
Rivers and Streams
In the surroundings of Nijverdal and Wierden, you enter the atmosphere of the Regge region, where water is given more space and the riverbanks feel natural and untouched. Between the higher sandy grounds and the lower, moisture rich areas, the scenery changes subtly yet constantly. It is precisely this transition that makes the route so surprisingly varied.
Hills and Valleys
The Sallandse Heuvelrug is a glacial ridge, something you notice through the short climbs and the sweeping views that suddenly open up along the route. Between the higher ridges lie more sheltered valleys and gentle transitions towards the open countryside. This gives your ride a pleasant rhythm of climbing, taking in the views, and smoothly rolling on again.
Virtual Cycling Through National Park Sallandse Heuvelrug and Wierdense Veld
Experience National Park Sallandse Heuvelrug from home, with short climbs, quiet pine forests, vast heathlands and sweeping views across the Ice Age landscape. The route then gradually shifts towards Wierdense Veld, where wet grasslands, sphagnum moss and pools create a tranquil world of rare living raised bogs.
Experience the route from home with virtual cycling.
Route Map and Cycling Junctions
Start and finish near cycling junction 53 on the Bonteweg in Nijverdal. Because this is a circular route, you can also start at one of the other cycling junctions along the route.
Route Details
Along the way: several options for a coffee break or lunch.
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