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, every 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!

Motorcycle route Utrechtse Heuvelrug - A ride through the woods and hills 1.

If you like a mix of nature, historic villages and rolling roads, the Utrechtse Heuvelrug is a great route. The tour takes you past dense forests, open moors and impressive vistas. Start your ride 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.

2. Motor route North Holland - From dunes to dikes

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

The route continues along the West Frisian Omringdijk, where you can enjoy beautiful views of the IJsselmeer and visit authentic villages such as Medemblik and Enkhuizen. The narrow dike roads with their characteristic curves make for a delightful driving experience, especially in good weather.

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

3. Motor route Overijssel - Through the rolling landscape of Twente

Twente is known for its friendly, rolling landscape and quiet roads where you can enjoy undisturbed motorcycling. This route starts beautifully at the Lutterzand, a nature reserve with winding sandy paths along the Dinkel. From here you ride through narrow roads surrounded by meadows and picturesque farms towards Ootmarsum, a charming art town where time seems to stand still.

The route is a mix of straights and beautiful curves, perfect for a nice ride. Highlights along the way include the Sallandse Heuvelrug with its rolling hills and the view from Holterberg.

4. Motor route South Holland - From Rotterdam to the coast.

South Holland offers a unique combination of urban dynamism and restful coastal areas. This route starts near Rotterdam and leads you along the Nieuwe Maas River toward 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.

5. Motor route Drenthe - Through forests and moors

Drenthe is the province for those who love quiet, natural motorcycle rides. This route takes you through endless forests, past 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.

6. Motor route Friesland - Between lakes and meadows

Friesland offers motorcyclists a wonderful mix of water landscapes, vast meadows and atmospheric villages. This route starts in Sneek and leads you along quiet roads towards the Frisian lakes. You'll pass Langweer and Lemmer, and if you like, you can take in a bit of the Elfstedenroute.

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

7. Motor route Gelderland - The Veluwe and the river area.

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.

8. Motorcycle route Zeeland - Beautiful dikes and endless views

This route starts in Middelburg and takes you 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.

Brabant motorcycle route - forests and burgundy atmosphere 9.

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 motorcycle route - The charm of the island 10.

Texel offers a unique experience for motorcyclists. The ride begins with a crossing from Den Helder and takes 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.