Vecht Valley Route – a cross-border river landscape
Cycling Collection by Klaske Schep
7
days
1-3 h
/ day
244 km
610 m
500 m
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 route below as a template.
Last updated: November 4, 2024
Plan your own version of this adventure in the multi-day planner based on the stages suggested in this Collection.
Activities
- 02:1839.0 km17.0 km/h100 m90 mFerryIntermediateIntermediate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The route 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
- 02:2038.1 km16.3 km/h110 m110 mFerryIntermediateIntermediate bike ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride. The route 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
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- 01:5331.9 km17.0 km/h60 m50 mFerryEasyEasy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The route 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
- 03:1650.7 km15.5 km/h120 m110 mIntermediateIntermediate 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
- 01:3325.2 km16.2 km/h70 m60 mIntermediateIntermediate bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route 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…
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- 02:1536.9 km16.4 km/h70 m50 mIntermediateIntermediate 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…
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- 01:2221.9 km16.0 km/h80 m30 mEasyEasy 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…
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Collection Stats
- Activities7
- Distance244 km
- Duration14:57 h
- Elevation610 m500 m
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