Vecht Valley Route – a cross-border river landscape
Bike Touring Collection by Klaske Schep
7
days
1-3 h
/ day
151 mi
2,100 ft
1,750 ft
Welcome to the Vecht Valley Route (Vechtdalroute), a unique cross-border cycling experience along the course of the Vecht River, from its mouth in Zwolle to its source in Darfeld in Münsterland. Whether you're an experienced cyclist or simply want to enjoy a relaxing bike ride through breathtaking landscapes, the Vecht Valley Route has something for everyone.
The Vecht originates in Darfeld, Germany, and is the lifeline of this beautiful area. For 245 kilometres (152 mi), it flows through a varied natural landscape, surrounded by canals, forests and fields. Along the way, you’ll pass picturesque villages, historical sights and breathtaking views. It's a route that invites exploration of the Vecht Valley in all its splendour.
The Vecht Valley Route connects a total of 15 different municipalities in the Netherlands and Germany, passing through an area rich in culture, history and natural beauty. You’ll discover atmospheric towns like Hardenberg, Ommen, and Nordhorn, where you can enjoy cosy terraces, local delicacies and historical sights and marvel at the diversity of the landscape as you pedal past green meadows, vast forests and picturesque riverbanks.
Numerous self-service snack stations line the route, offering perfect opportunities for a break to quench your thirst and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. It’s a good idea to bring your own food and drink, too. You'll also encounter several unmissable highlights en route. Admire the works of art in Hardenberg, explore the historic centre of Gramsbergen, and enjoy panoramic views over the Vecht from the Distelbelt lookout hill.
Most of the route is paved and suitable for any bike that’s comfortable over long distances. In this Collection, the route is divided into 7 stages of between 20 and 40 kilometres (12 to 25 mi) in length. If you’d prefer you can create your own schedule using the complete Tour.
So, what are you waiting for? Hop on your bike, feel the wind through your hair and enjoy the river landscape. Lose yourself in this beautiful area, where nature and culture go hand in hand. Vechtdal awaits your discovery.
On The Map
Do it yourself
Ready to get going? Create and customize your own version of this adventure using the full Tour below as a template.
Last updated: August 22, 2023
Plan your own version of this adventure in the multi-day planner based on the stages suggested in this Collection.
Tours
- 02:1824.3 mi10.6 mph325 ft300 ftFerryIntermediateIntermediate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The Tour includes a crossing by ferry.
Step on the pedals and discover the beautiful Vechtdal during the first stage of the Vechtdalpad. This cycle route stretches over 245 kilometres, from Zwolle at the mouth of the Vecht to Darfeld in Germany, where the source of the Vecht can be found.
Stage 1 takes you from Zwolle to Vilsteren, over a…
by Klaske Schep
- 02:2023.7 mi10.1 mph350 ft375 ftFerryIntermediateIntermediate bike ride. Good fitness required. Some portions of the Tour may be unpaved and difficult to ride. The Tour includes a crossing by ferry.
Go on an adventure and explore the beautiful Vechtdal during the second stage of the Vechtdalpad. This versatile cycle route stretches over 245 kilometres, from Zwolle at the mouth of the Vecht to Darfeld in Germany, where the source of the Vecht can be found.
Stage 2 takes you from Vilsteren to Hardenberg…
by Klaske Schep
Sign Up To Discover Places Like This
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
- 01:5319.8 mi10.5 mph200 ft175 ftFerryEasyEasy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The Tour includes a crossing by ferry.
Are you ready to discover the beautiful Vechtdal? Jump on your bike and go on an adventure along the Vechtdal route. This versatile cycle route stretches over 245 kilometres, from Zwolle at the mouth of the Vecht to Darfeld in Germany, where the source of the Vecht can be found.
Are you traveling to the…
by Klaske Schep
- 03:1631.5 mi9.7 mph400 ft375 ftIntermediateIntermediate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Prepare yourself for a challenging bike ride through the Vechtdal during the fourth stage of the Vechtdalpad. This stage takes you from Emlichheim to Nordhorn over a distance of 44.3 kilometers.
Are you traveling to the starting point by public transport? From Bad Bentheim station you can travel by bus…
by Klaske Schep
- 01:3315.7 mi10.1 mph250 ft200 ftIntermediateIntermediate bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Some portions of the Tour may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
Prepare yourself for a beautiful bike ride through the Vechtdal during the fifth stage of the Vechtdalpad. This stage takes you from Nordhorn to Schüttorf over a distance of 25 kilometers. During this stage you will come across some Highlights that you should not miss.
Do you want to reach the starting…
by Klaske Schep
- 02:1522.8 mi10.1 mph300 ft225 ftIntermediateIntermediate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get on your bike and explore the beautiful Vechtdal during the sixth stage of the Vechtdalpad. This stage takes you from Schüttorf to Metelen over a distance of 37.2 kilometers. Several Highlights await you during this stage. Are you traveling to the starting point by public transport? From Hengelo you…
by Klaske Schep
- 01:2313.6 mi9.8 mph275 ft125 ftEasyEasy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get on the pedals for this last leg of the Vechtdal route. This tour takes you from Metelen to Darfeld, where the Vecht rises, over a distance of 30.3 kilometers. Are you traveling to Metelen by public transport? You can do this by train from Enschede station.
There are still some Highlights waiting for…
by Klaske Schep
Like this Collection?
Collection Stats
- Tours7
- Distance151 mi
- Duration14:58 h
- Elevation2,100 ft1,750 ft
You Might Also Like
Bike Touring Collection by Sabina Knezevic - Farawayistan
Bike Touring Collection by Bosch eBike Systems
Hiking Collection by Steiermark – Das Grüne Herz Österreichs
Hiking Collection by Anette