The 10 most beautiful motorcycle routes in the Netherlands

The Netherlands may be known as the land of straight roads and polder landscapes, but for motorcyclists there is a surprising amount to discover. From winding routes through the forests of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug to the vast dikes of Zeeland, each region has a hidden gem that will delight motorcyclists. Whether you are looking for a short day trip or a multi-day motorcycle trip, there is something for everyone.  

In this article we take you along the 10 most beautiful motorcycle routes in the Netherlands. Ideal to plan your next ride or to get inspiration for a motorcycle weekend with friends. Grab your helmet, start your motorcycle and discover what Holland has to offer! 

If you like a mix of nature, historic villages and rolling roads, the Utrechtse Heuvelrug is a great option for your route. In this area you will pass dense forests, open moors and impressive vistas. Start your drive in Amerongen, for example, where you can admire the castle before continuing on toward the Grebbeberg. This area is not only beautiful for its views of the Rhine, but also for its playful curves and height differences. A rarity in the Netherlands! 

Along the way you can stop at quaint cafes or stop for a walk through the Cape Woods. This route is ideal for both an afternoon ride or a longer day of touring. 

Tip: Try to plan the drive on a weekday to avoid the crowded roads and enjoy the peace and nature to the fullest. 

North Holland has everything you're looking for as a motorcyclist: coastlines, winding dike roads and picturesque villages. Start your route near Bergen, an attractive artists' village known for its cozy terraces. From there, ride through the dunes toward Schoorl, where you can soak up the fresh sea air and tour for miles through varied forest and coastal areas. 

Continue your route along the West Frisian Omringdijk, where you can enjoy beautiful views of the IJsselmeer and visit authentic villages like Medemblik and Enkhuizen. The narrow dike roads with their characteristic curves make for a delightful riding experience, especially in fine weather. 

Tip: End your ride with a stop in Hoorn or Volendam for a portion of kibbeling or ice cream at the harbor. 

Twente is known for its friendly, rolling landscape and quiet roads where you can enjoy undisturbed motorcycling. A great option to start your route is at the Lutterzand, a nature reserve with winding dirt roads along the Dinkel. From here you ride through narrow roads surrounded by meadows and picturesque farms toward Ootmarsum, a charming art town where time seems to stand still. 

This area offers a mix of straight stretches and beautiful curves, perfect for a nice ride. Highlights along the way include the Sallandse Heuvelrug with its rolling hills and views from the Holterberg. 

Zuid-Holland offers a unique combination of urban dynamism and restful coastal areas. Start your route near Rotterdam and head along the Nieuwe Maas river towards the green polder area near Kinderdijk, where you will have an impressive view of the famous windmills. 

From there, continue to the coastal area near Brouwersdam, a favorite spot for motorcyclists thanks to the long, straight roads and fresh sea air. The road along the dam offers stunning views of the water and is a great experience especially at sunset. 

Tip: On weekends, Brouwersdam can be crowded, so plan your ride early in the morning to enjoy the peace and quiet. 

Drenthe is the province for those who love quiet, natural motorcycle rides. This area offers you endless forests, purple moors and characteristic village greens. Start your ride in the surroundings of Assen and drive towards National Park Dwingelderveld. Along the way you will pass the famous dolmens near Borger, an absolute must-see for anyone who loves history. 

Tip: After your ride, visit Assen's TT Circuit if you are a fan of motorsports. 

Friesland offers motorcyclists a beautiful mix of water landscapes, vast meadows and atmospheric villages. Start your route in Sneek and lead you through quiet roads towards the Frisian lakes. You will pass Langweer and Lemmer, and if you want, you can take a piece of the Elfstedenroute. 

Tip: Take the ferry at Gaastmeer for a nice change during your ride! 

The route through Gelderland takes you along the beautiful Veluwe and the river area near the IJssel River. For example, start in Arnhem and drive towards the Posbank. The view from the Posbank is spectacular, especially in autumn when the heather turns purple. 

Tip: Lunch at a nice café in Bronkhorst, the smallest town in the Netherlands. 

Start in Middelburg and ride past the Delta Works, Neeltje Jans and the Oosterscheldekering. The combination of water, dikes and cute villages like Veere and Zierikzee make this ride unique. 

Tip: Drive across Brouwersdam at sunset for breathtaking views. 

In Brabant you can enjoy winding forest roads and the hospitality of cozy villages. Start your route at the Oisterwijkse Bossen and Vennen and continue to the Kampina and the Loonse and Drunense Dunes. 

Tip: Treat yourself to a Bossche bol in Den Bosch after your ride! 

Texel offers a unique experience for motorcyclists. Start your ride with a crossing from Den Helder and take you past the lighthouse, dunes and picturesque Oudeschild. 

Tip: Make it a multi-day trip and book an overnight stay at a B&B to further explore the island. 

1. North to South:
   A three-day road trip from Groningen to Brabant, ideal for exploring all of the Netherlands.

2. Round IJsselmeer:
   A two-day route around the IJsselmeer with stops in historic towns.

3. Southern Netherlands:
   Combine Zeeland, Brabant and Limburg for a varied multi-day motorcycle ride.

Practical Tips: 

• Bring rain gear as the weather can turn. 

• Book your accommodations early, especially in popular regions such as Texel and the Veluwe