Cycling routes by season: discover the most beautiful tours in the Netherlands

The Netherlands changes colors every season. From blooming bulb fields in spring to golden forests in autumn. And with an electric fatbike or cargo bike, you'll discover that beauty in a way you'll never forget. The wide tires give you grip on any type of surface, whether wet autumn leaves or frozen winter paths. Your range of 80 to 100 kilometers means that even the longest seasonal bike routes are within reach.

Many cyclists put their two-wheelers in the shed as soon as the temperature drops. Too bad, because it is precisely in the quieter months that you discover routes that are crowded in the summer. A fatbike with thick tires and electric support makes cycling comfortable in any season. The pedal assistance helps you against the wind, while the stable construction keeps you safe on slippery or bumpy trails.

"Our customers tell us that since they've had a fatbike, they've been biking year-round," says Joeri of STOER Bikes. "The combination of comfort, stability and range makes all the difference."

In this article, we take you through the most beautiful cycling routes by season. From blossom rides in April to winter forest trails in January. You'll learn which routes best suit each season and how to make the most of your fatbike or cargo bike for every adventure.

1. Spring cycling routes: blossoms, bulbs and new energy
2. Summer routes: beach, water and long evenings
3. Autumn trails: forests, heath and beautiful colors
4. Winter routes: silence, frost and special experiences 
5. Bike routes by season: which one suits your fatbike?
6. Practical tips for cycling routes by season
7. Plan your own seasonal itinerary
8. Frequently asked questions about bicycle routes by season 

Spring is the season of new beginnings. Nature awakens and the Netherlands turns pink, white and yellow. This is the perfect time to get your fatbike out of winter storage and take the first longer rides. Temperatures are pleasant, the wind is often mild and everywhere you can smell the scent of flowering trees.

Blossom routes through the Betuwe

The Betuwe is known for its fruit orchards. From mid-April to early May, the apple and pear trees turn pink and white. The blossom route between Tiel and Buren is highly recommended. You cycle along quiet dike roads overlooking endless orchards. The route is about 45 kilometers long, perfect for a morning or afternoon.

With an electric fatbike, you cover this distance effortlessly. The dikes can be a bit bumpy at times due to tree roots, but the wide tires absorb this smoothly. Along the way you will pass fruit stands where you can buy fresh apple juice and local produce. Plan your trip on a weekday, as weekends can be busy.

Want to learn more about all-weather cycling? Check out our blog on why a fatbike is ideal for all seasons.

Bulb region: a sea of colors

From mid-March to mid-May, the bulb fields bloom between Leiden and Haarlem. Tulips, daffodils and hyacinths form a palette of colors not found anywhere else in the world. The bulb route of about 35 kilometers takes you past the most beautiful fields. Start at Lisse and cycle via Hillegom to Noordwijkerhout.

Please note that during the high season (around Easter and King's Day) it is very busy. Go early in the morning or choose a weekday. The bike paths are well maintained, but can be narrow. With a fatbike you have just a little more stability than on a regular bike, which is nice when passing other cyclists.

Spring tips for your fatbike

After winter, your bike deserves extra attention. Check tire pressure, as cold temperatures can let air out of your tires. Also check your brakes and lights. Spring rains can come on suddenly, so bring a rain jacket. Your battery is already performing better in spring than in winter, so you can count on a good range.

Summer is the season for longer trips. The days are long, the temperatures pleasant and there are terraces everywhere to take a break. With an electric fatbike, you can cover distances of 60 to 80 kilometers without effort. The sun is high, so don't forget your sunscreen.

Coastal route: from Scheveningen to Zandvoort

This route of about 40 kilometers takes you along the most beautiful beaches of the Randstad. Start at Scheveningen and cycle through the Noorderstrand to Katwijk. From there you go through the dunes to Noordwijk and on to Zandvoort. The route combines beach, dunes and cozy seaside resorts.

With a fatbike you can also ride stretches on the beach, provided you lower the tire pressure to about 0.5 bar. The wide tires then sink less into the sand. Please note that not all beach areas are accessible to cyclists. Check the local rules in advance.

Want to know how to optimally set up your fatbike for different surfaces? Then read our blog about fatbikes for adults.

Water routes through Friesland

Friesland is a paradise for cyclists who love water. The Elfstedenroute follows the route of the famous skating classic and takes you past all eleven Frisian cities. The complete route is 235 kilometers, but you can also cycle shorter stretches. The stage from Sneek to Bolsward (about 25 kilometers) is a nice introduction.

The route goes mostly on paved bike paths along canals and lakes. You pass historic bridges, windmills and characteristic Frisian villages. In summer, you can swim along the way in the many lakes. Bring a towel and swimwear for a refreshing stop.

IJssel route: discovering river landscapes

The IJssel winds through one of the most beautiful landscapes in the Netherlands. The route from Deventer to Zutphen (about 30 kilometers) takes you past floodplains, old Hanseatic towns and nature reserves. In summer, cows graze in the meadows and you see herons standing along the banks.

Please note that some ferries only operate during the summer. Check the sailing times in advance, otherwise you will have to make a considerable detour. The route is flat and suitable for all levels. With a cargo bike, you can easily bring a picnic and stop at a beautiful riverside spot along the way.

Summer tips for long trips

Bring plenty of water, especially on hot days. A water bottle of at least 750 ml is recommended. Plan your route past charging points if you are going on a long trip. The ANWB app shows where you can recharge your battery. Wear light, breathable clothing and don't forget your sunglasses. Start early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the greatest heat.

Autumn is the most beautiful season for many cyclists. The forests turn golden, orange and red. Temperatures are pleasant for strenuous tours and the hustle and bustle of summer is over. This is the season to explore the Veluwe, Drenthe and other wooded areas.

Veluwe: the largest forest area in the Netherlands

The Veluwe offers hundreds of kilometers of bike trails through forests, heathland and sand drifts. The route around Radio Kootwijk (about 35 kilometers) is a favorite. You cycle through pine forests, along the famous sand flat and through the Kootwijkerzand. In autumn, the birches turn golden and you see mushrooms along the paths.

With a fatbike, you can also explore dirt trails. The wide tires provide grip on loose leaves and muddy patches. Do watch out for stray wildlife. In autumn, red deer and wild boar are more active, especially in the morning and evening hours.

Want to learn more about safe cycling? Check out our blog on how to secure your fatbike.

Drenthe autumn route: dolmens and heathland

Drenthe is the land of dolmens, sheep herds and endless moors. The route around Borger (about 40 kilometers) takes you past the largest dolmens in the Netherlands. In autumn, the heather turns purple and the forests golden. You cycle through the Hunebedcentrum and along the Drouwenerzand.

The trails in Drenthe are well maintained and mostly paved. Yet there are also beautiful unpaved sections through the woods. With an electric fatbike, you'll cover the route in a few hours, with plenty of time for stops at dolmens and museums.

Utrechtse Heuvelrug: hills and estates

The Utrechtse Heuvelrug is one of the few hilly areas in the Netherlands. The route around Amerongen (about 30 kilometers) takes you past castles, estates and forests. You climb the Amerongse Berg (69 meters high) overlooking the Gelderse Vallei.

The electric support of a fatbike makes climbs a lot more enjoyable. You can choose how much help you want: little support for a sporty workout, or more support for a relaxing ride. Going downhill is a pleasure, but brake gently on the winding trails.

Autumn tips for your fatbike

Wet leaves can be slippery, so brake earlier and more quietly than you are used to. Check your lights, as the days are getting shorter. Make sure your fenders are secure, as mud can splash up considerably. Wear water-repellent clothing, as autumn rains often come unexpectedly. Your battery performs well in temperatures above 10 degrees, so your range remains stable.

Winter is the quietest season for cycling. The trails are empty, the air is clear, and with frost, the landscape turns into a fairy tale. Many cyclists stay indoors, but with the right preparation, winter cycling is a unique experience.

Winter forest trail in the Speulder forest

The Speulderbos near Garderen is known as one of the most beautiful forests in the Netherlands. In winter, when the trees are bare, you can see the sunlight shining through the branches. The mist hangs low over the ground and gives the forest a mysterious atmosphere. The route of about 20 kilometers is shorter than summer routes, but the experience is intense.

A fatbike's wide tires give extra grip on frozen trails. Lower the tire pressure to 0.6-0.7 bar for more contact with the ground. Watch out for icy spots, especially on bridges and in the shade. Wear gloves and a warm hat because the wind feels colder than you think.

Winter walk along the Wadden Sea

The coast is at its most beautiful in winter. The beaches are empty, the waves break on the beach and the air is crystal clear. The route along the Wadden dike from Harlingen to Franeker (about 25 kilometers) offers wide views of the mud flats. In clear weather, you can see the Wadden Islands on the horizon.

Winds can be brisk in the winter, so plan your route with the wind on the way back. The dikes are well paved, but can be slippery with frost. With an electric cargo bike, you can bring warm blankets and a thermos for a winter picnic along the way.

Want to know how to protect your cargo bike from winter weather? Then read our blog about maintenance tips for your electric cargo bike.

Urban winter route through Amsterdam

In winter, Amsterdam is less busy than in summer. The canals can freeze, the terraces are empty and the city has a quieter rhythm. A fat bike route through the city of about 15 kilometers takes you past the most beautiful canals, parks and museums. Start at the Vondelpark, cycle along the Prinsengracht to the Jordaan and finish at the IJ.

The wide tires of a fatbike provide stability on narrow bridges and cobblestones. Watch out for streetcar rails, as they can be slippery. The fatbike tires do not get stuck in the rails, which is a big advantage over narrow bike tires.

Winter tips for your fatbike and cargo bike

Your battery performs less well in the cold. Temperatures below 5 degrees can reduce your range by 20-30%. Store your battery inside at room temperature and don't install it in your bike until just before departure. Check your lights extra carefully because the days are short. Wear reflective clothing and make sure your bike is well lit. Lubricate your chain or belt with water-repellent lubricants to prevent rust.

Choosing a route depends on your bike type and personal preferences. A fatbike is more versatile than a regular bike and opens routes that are otherwise difficult to reach. Here is an overview of which routes are best suited to which season and bicycle type.

Overview by season and bicycle type

Why a fatbike is ideal for seasonal cycling

A fatbike gives you the freedom to ride year-round. The wide tires provide grip on wet leaves, mud, sand and light snow. The electric assistance helps you against the wind and on hills. The stable construction gives confidence on bumpy trails. And with a range of 80 to 100 kilometers, you'll also cover longer routes effortlessly.

At STOER Bikes, we combine these advantages with Dutch quality and design. Our fatbikes are equipped with the low-maintenance Gates CDX belt drive, so you'll never suffer from a dirty or rusty chain. The Tektro hydraulic brakes give reliable stopping power in all weather conditions. And the PIN code immobilizer ensures your bike is safe, even if you briefly leave it at a teahouse along the way.

Curious about our models? Take a look at the UrbanX For daily use and recreation, or the CargoX If you want to take children or luggage on your seasonal trips.

Each season requires different preparations. Here are the most important tips for cycling safely and comfortably, no matter the weather.

General preparations

Before each trip, check your tire pressure, brakes and lights. Bring plenty of water and snacks. Download the route on your phone in case you don't have coverage. Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back. Bring a simple repair kit with a tire patch and multi-tool.

Clothing by season

In spring and fall, it's best to work with layers. A base layer of synthetic material, an intermediate layer for insulation and an outer layer that keeps off wind and water. In summer, wear light, breathable clothing with UV protection. In winter, opt for warm gloves, a hat under your helmet and windproof clothing. Reflective elements are wise in all seasons.

Battery tips by season

Your battery performs best at temperatures between 15 and 25 degrees. In winter, capacity may decrease by 20-30%. Store your battery indoors at room temperature. Do not charge your battery if it is frozen. In summer, prevent overheating by not leaving your battery in full sunlight. Charge your battery to 80% for daily use and to 100% only for long trips.

Want to know more about battery maintenance? Read our blog on battery life.

You will discover the most beautiful cycling routes by season by going out yourself. Use the tips in this article as inspiration and adapt them to your own environment. Every area of the Netherlands has its own seasonal beauty, from the blossoming fruit trees in Limburg to the frozen lakes in Friesland.

With an electric fatbike or cargo bike from STOER Bikes, you'll be prepared for any season. The combination of comfort, stability and range makes every trip a pleasure. Whether you go alone, with friends or with the whole family in the cargo bike, there is always a route that suits your season.

Want to test drive before you choose? Book a free test drive at one of our dealers and experience year-round cycling for yourself.

What season is best for cycling in the Netherlands?

Each season has its own charm. Spring offers blossoms and bulb fields, summer long days and beach routes, autumn beautiful forest colors and winter quiet trails. With a fatbike you can cycle comfortably all year round thanks to the wide tires and electric support.

Can I ride a fatbike in the winter?

Yes, a fatbike is just right for winter cycling. The wide tires provide grip on slippery and wet trails. Lower the tire pressure to 0.6-0.7 bar for extra grip. Just keep in mind that in cold weather your battery may have up to 30% less capacity.

How long are the bike routes per season on average?

The routes in this article range from 20 to 50 kilometers. In winter, shorter routes of 20-25 kilometers are more pleasant because of the cold. In summer, you can easily cover 40-60 kilometers. With an electric fatbike with 720Wh battery, you can achieve a range of 80-100 kilometers.

What routes are suitable for a cargo bike?

Paved routes such as the Bloesemroute, Bollenstreek and Waddendijkroute are ideal for a cargo bike. Avoid routes with many unpaved sections or steep inclines. The CargoX has a range of 60-100 kilometers, sufficient for most day trips.

How do I prepare my fatbike for a new season?

Check tire pressure, brakes and lights. Clean your bike and lubricate moving parts. Check your battery and charge it fully. Match your clothing to the season and always bring a repair kit.

Where can I find charging stations along the way?

The ANWB app and Fietsersbond app show charging points throughout the Netherlands. Many catering establishments also offer the option of charging your battery. Plan longer routes past known charging points or take a second battery with you.