You cycle along the north side of Oldenzaal to the highest peak in Overijssel, the Tankenberg. Over the moraines of Oldenzaal it goes to the Roderveld with the adjacent Havezate Het Everloo. The Singraven watermill, located on the Dinkel, is a beautiful place for lunch. You cycle along the meandering Dinkel to the Lutterzand. Just outside De Lutte you will find the beautiful tree garden of the Poort Bulten Arboretum. You cycle along old church paths along the south side of Oldenzaal back to the Hulsbeek. In the short variant you ignore the Lutterzand to have more time for the Arboretum.

A 5-day cycling holiday in Oldenzaal, located in the picturesque Twente region of the Netherlands, offers an incredible opportunity to experience the charm of Dutch countryside, historic villages, and scenic landscapes. Known for its green, rolling hills and vibrant culture, Twente is ideal for cyclists of all levels. Here’s what a 5-day itinerary might look like:

Day 1: Arrival and Oldenzaal Exploration

Begin your trip in Oldenzaal, a charming town known for its history and welcoming atmosphere. After settling in, you can take a relaxing ride around the town to see St. Plechelmus Basilica, a striking medieval church, and the vibrant city center with its historic architecture and quaint cafes. Spend the evening enjoying a local dinner, perhaps trying traditional Dutch dishes or a fresh regional specialty.

Day 2: Twickel Estate and Delden – 50 km

On the second day, ride towards Delden, where you’ll find the beautiful Twickel Estate, one of the largest privately owned castles in the Netherlands. The route takes you along quiet roads and through lush forests, making for a peaceful and scenic journey. Twickel’s gardens and castle are perfect for a midday break, where you can explore and capture some stunning photos. Afterward, loop back to Oldenzaal, riding past windmills and fields that stretch across the countryside.

Day 3: Nature Reserves and Lutterzand – 60 km

Head out to discover Twente’s diverse natural beauty by cycling through the Lutterzand nature reserve, located along the meandering Dinkel River. This area is rich with sand drifts, heaths, and pine forests. Enjoy a stop at one of the observation points overlooking the river, which offers a serene spot to relax. In the evening, return to Oldenzaal and consider visiting a cozy local pub to unwind after a full day.

Day 4: Border Ride to Germany – 70 km

Day four brings an exciting cross-border ride. Cycle towards the German border, passing charming villages like De Lutte and Glanerbrug. Once in Germany, explore Gronau, a town known for its musical heritage (the birthplace of Udo Lindenberg, a popular German rock musician) and tranquil parks. The mix of Dutch and German landscapes gives this ride a unique feel. Afterward, make your way back to Oldenzaal for a restful night.

Day 5: The Hills of Twente and Departure – 40 km

The final day offers a scenic farewell to Twente. Cycle through the hilly landscape, heading towards Ootmarsum, a picturesque village known for its artists and galleries. This area is filled with vibrant countryside views, traditional Dutch farmhouses, and winding paths. Spend some time exploring the village before cycling back to Oldenzaal. After a leisurely lunch, prepare for departure, concluding your holiday with fond memories and perhaps plans for another cycling adventure in Twente.

This itinerary provides a balanced mix of cycling, relaxation, and cultural immersion, perfect for enjoying Twente’s unique landscapes and heritage