The 5 Most Beautiful Cycling Routes in Limburg

Whether you love challenging climbs or prefer leisurely rides along rivers and through the woods, Limburg is a true paradise for cyclists. With more than 2,000 kilometers of paved bike paths, the province offers an exceptional playground: from the rolling hills in the south to the vast heathlands in the north, there’s something for everyone. Let’s be honest, though: this picturesque terrain can really give your calves a workout.

Good news: there’s a perfect solution. With a refurbished e-bike from Upway, you’ll climb even the steepest hills effortlessly and enjoy the scenery twice as much.

In this article, we present the absolute top 5 cycling routes in Limburg, selected based on the most popular choices among local cyclists and tourism experts. Hop on your bike and set off to discover your next adventure!

Key points to remember

• For all skill levels: Limburg offers more than 2,500 flat and easy routes in the north and center, as well as challenging climbs in the south.
• Unique experiences: Nowhere else are bike paths integrated into nature in such a spectacular way—whether right at water's edge or high up in the treetops.
• The perfect companion for your e-bike: with a refurbished Upway e-bike, even the toughest climbs (like the one at Drielandenpunt) are a breeze, and you’ll have plenty of time to stop at the region’s famous cyclists’ cafés.

Smart E-Bike Riding in the Limburg Hills

Limburg is beautiful, but the hills drain the battery. To avoid running out of power halfway up a hill, here are three golden rules to follow:

• Anticipate gear changes: use your gears just as you would on a regular bike. Shift down before starting the climb. A high cadence is much more efficient for the electric motor and significantly conserves battery power.
• Choose the right level of assistance: select “Eco” or “Tour” mode on flat sections, and save “Turbo” or “Boost” mode for the steepest sections.
• Brake smartly on downhill sections: modulate your braking by applying the brakes intermittently rather than keeping them lightly applied at all times. This prevents the brake pads from overheating on the long descents in Limburg.

The 5 Best Cycling Routes in Limburg

1. The northern loop of the Mergelland Trail

The Mergelland route is a classic in the region, and its northern loop is a favorite among the Komoot community. You’ll ride through the rolling heart of the Pays des Collines, passing through the picturesque landscapes that give this region its charm. You don’t need to be a seasoned athlete to tackle this route, even though the hills do require some effort. With the assistance of your Upway e-bike, it’s a real joy!

• Who it's for: recreational cyclists and nature lovers.
• Difficulty: medium.
• Distance: 48.0 km.
• Elevation gain: 270 m.
• Duration: about 3 hours.

2. Through the Sand and the Tree Tops (Bosland)

Looking for a truly unique experience? This route in northern Limburg takes you through the fragrant pine forests of the Bosland. The highlight is undoubtedly the “Fietsen door de Bomen” (Cycling Through the Trees) project, where you’ll ride along a spectacular footbridge suspended 10 meters above the treetops. Since the route is completely flat, it’s accessible to everyone, even on a city bike—but a comfortable e-bike makes the ride through nature even more enjoyable.

• Who it's for: families and those who enjoy peace and quiet.
• Difficulty: flat and easy (suitable for everyone).
• Distance: 52.7 km.
• Elevation gain: virtually none (91 m).
• Duration: approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes.

3. The Drielandenpunt Trail

This is the ultimate route for avid cyclists seeking breathtaking views. You’ll ride up to the Vaalserberg, the highest point in the Netherlands at 322 meters, and you’ll also cross the borders into Germany and Belgium. Since this route has the greatest elevation gain in our selection, it’s the ultimate test for your e-bike. The reward? Stunning views of three countries and plenty of opportunities for friendly stops along the way. Want to get your bike ready for this kind of adventure? Check out our article on MTB bikepacking for practical tips.

• Who it's for: competitive cyclists and e-bikers who aren't afraid of climbs.
• Difficulty: difficult.
• Distance: approximately 42 to 43.3 km.
• Elevation gain: 600 m.
• Duration: approximately 2 hours and 52 minutes.

4. The Hesbaye Fruit Trail

The gentle hills of Hesbaye are adorned with magnificent colors in the spring thanks to the blossoms in the orchards, and by late summer, the branches are heavy with fruit. This long ride will take you past colorful orchards and charming villages. The route is hilly, so it will give your legs a good workout. If you’re looking for a bike well-suited to this type of terrain, our guide to the best electric hybrid bikes can help you make the right choice.

• Who it's for: nature lovers, those who love flowers in bloom, and those who enjoy long walks.
• Difficulty: hilly / challenging.
• Distance: 58.4 km to 62.8 km.
• Elevation gain: 496 m.
• Duration: about 4 hours.

5. From the Shafts to the Headframes (Beringen)

Limburg has a remarkable mining history, and cycling is the perfect way to explore it up close. This captivating route starts at be-MINE in Beringen. You’ll ride on flat trails alongside former coal-washing plants, impressive mine shafts, and protected industrial heritage sites. A perfect, peaceful way to spend a Sunday afternoon! For this type of leisurely ride, a city bike or an electric hybrid bike is ideal.

• Who it's for: Culture and history enthusiasts.
• Difficulty: flat and easy.
• Distance: 49.7 km.
• Elevation gain: minimal (mostly flat).
• Duration: about 3 hours.

Itineraries at a Glance

Frequently asked questions

1. What is the best time of year to go cycling in Limburg?

The ideal time to visit is from spring through early fall (April through October). Spring is spectacular thanks to the blooming flowers, while fall offers magnificent forests ablaze with color. Weather conditions are also ideal during these two seasons.

2. Are the challenging trails in South Limburg suitable for beginners?

Yes, but proper preparation is essential. The gradients can be steep, and without an e-bike, a route like the Drielandenpunt is truly challenging (requires excellent physical fitness). With a modern e-bike—like those offered by Upway these routes become accessible to virtually everyone! Do you prefer to ride without assistance? Then choose one of the more than 2,500 flat routes in the northern and central parts of the province.

3. Does Limburg offer truly unique cycling experiences?

Absolutely! Limburg is internationally renowned for its innovative cycling concepts. For example, you can cycle on water (“Fietsen door Water” in Bokrijk), ride along a footbridge 10 meters up in the trees (Bosland National Park), or cycle through the heathlands.

4. Are there places to rest and recharge your e-bike?

Of course. The province is perfectly suited for cycling tourism. Along all the cycling routes, you’ll find Limburg’s famous “Burgundian” atmosphere: cozy cafés for cyclists and outdoor seating areas where you can take a break, enjoy a glass of wine or a local beer, and recharge your batteries—both literally and figuratively.

5. Is it easy to get around in Limburg?

It’s incredibly easy. Limburg has an excellent network of bike nodes—well-maintained and free of car traffic—that connects the Dutch and Belgian parts of the region. All you have to do is follow the numbered signs. Ready for an adventure? Check out Upway selection of refurbished e-bikes, perfect for all your Limburg routes.

Written by: Hanna Stevens | Published on: June 17, 2025 | 5-minute read

About the Author: Hanna Stevens

Hanna is a cycling enthusiast who loves discovering new routes and sharing her experiences to inspire more people to get around by bike.