The best e-bike routes around Utrecht (25–70 km)
Utrecht could be described as a flat city, but twenty kilometers to the east, the gentle slopes of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug begin. And there, you'll discover far more possibilities than you ever imagined. Living in this region myself, I cycle these routes all year round. There are four types of routes, each with its own charm: along the water, through the polders, on the Heuvelrug, and in Het Gooi. I can help you choose the one that best suits your e-bike.
Written by: Jos Mans | February 12, 2026 | Reading time: 6minutes
About the author: Jos Mans
Jos is a writer and cyclist, most often both at the same time. With thousands of miles under his belt and just as many words on paper, he combines his two great passions: being on the move and telling stories.
Key findings
- Utrecht is not necessarily a completely flat city for cycling; the Heuvelrug requires a powerful trekking e-bike, not a simple lightweight city model.
- The most beautiful routes are not always the most obvious ones: the forests of the Gooi with their gravel paths and the Amerongen–Rhenen section with its hills are surprisingly beautiful.
- Adapt your e-bike to your route: comfort models for the polders, trekking bikes for the Heuvelrug, MTB for the forests of the Gooi.
Four types of roads and the e-bike you need
1. Utrechtse Heuvelrug: terrain for e-bike trekking
The Heuvelrug stretches from Zeist to Rhenen: forests, hills, panoramic views. This is exactly the kind of route you need an e-bike for, as the roads would be too demanding without assistance.
What you need: a trekking e-bike with a powerful mid-drive motor. Cube Kathmandu Hybrid, Giant Explore E+, or Haibike Trekking. Minimum battery capacity of 500 Wh, ideally 625 Wh.
My opinion: for me, this is the most beautiful route around Utrecht. The Heuvelrug really puts your legs to the test, and the gradients around Amerongen and Rhenen are quite steep. But with the right motor, it's no longer a challenge, it's a pleasure.
refurbished tip refurbished a refurbished Kathmandu Cube costs between €2,200 and €2,800, compared to €3,500 to €4,000 for new. Same motor and battery, with chain and brake pads already replaced.
2. Along the Lek: territory for comfortable e-bikes
Thetowpaths and dykes along the water's edge. Flat, open, predictable.
What you need: a comfortable or urban e-bike. Gazelle Ultimate, Sparta d-Burst, Batavus Diva—models capable of riding comfortably for 40 km. tires help on rougher sections of the dike.
My opinion: I choose this route when I just want to get moving without thinking. It clears my mind. Be careful of the wind, though: here, it affects your experience more than you might imagine.
3. Groene Hart: for lovers of tranquility
Heading towards Woerden and Oudewater: green, perfectly flat polder landscapes.
What you need: an urban or touring e-bike with an efficient motor. Gazelle CityGo, Batavus Finez, Sparta Pick-Up—here, range matters more than power.
My opinion: my favorite route when I'm looking for peace and quiet. The polder has no drama or spectacular peaks, and that's precisely why it works so well. It invites you to slow down deliberately. Switch to Eco mode and let the landscape set the pace.
4. Gooi forests: MTB challenge
North side towards Hilversum: forests and sandy paths.
What you need: a sturdy trekking e-bike or an MTB . Cube Reaction , Haibike AllMtn, Trek Powerfly. tires (minimum 50 mm) and a responsive motor.
My opinion: this is the route I take most often when I feel like being active. It's more challenging than flat routes, and that's precisely what makes it exciting.
Please note: unpaved terrain + some inclines = 30 to 40% more power consumption. Expect a maximum range of 50 km with a standard battery.
Routes by distance
25–35 km: Zeist–Austerlitz (intro Heuvelrug)
Bicycle: trekking e-bike (Cube Kathmandu, Giant , Gazelle Ultimate T10+)
The perfect introduction to the Heuvelrug. Enough elevation to feel the engine working, without being too intense. The Pyramid of Austerlitz is a great place to take a break.
35–45 km: Utrecht–Woerden–Oudewater (Green Heart)
Bicycle: comfort e-bike (Gazelle Orange , Batavus Diva, Sparta d-Burst)
My "I need a break" route. Coffee break in Oudewater on one of the terraces. Perhaps not the most spectacular route, but certainly pleasant and peaceful.
refurbished tip refurbished there's no need to invest in a high-end model. A refurbished Gazelle or Batavus refurbished €1,600–2,000 is more than enough.
45–55 km: Amerongen–Rhenen (challenging Heuvelrug)
Bicycle: powerful trekking e-bike (Cube Kathmandu 625, Haibike Trekking 6, Giant E+ 1)
My favorite route around Utrecht. Real climbs, forests, and castles, unexpected panoramas in the Netherlands. The ride that makes you think: this is why I have an e-bike.
Tip: powerful central motor and 625 Wh battery recommended. A refurbished Cube Kathmandu 625 (2022) refurbished €2,400–2,800, compared to €3,800 new.
55–70 km: Hilversum–Laren–Blaricum (Gooise forests)
Bicycle: MTB or sturdy trekking bike (Cube Reaction , Haibike AllMtn, Trek Powerfly)
For those who really want to cycle, not just rack up the miles. Climbs, descents, technical turns—more of an adventure than a simple ride.
Tip: tires 50 mm tires , powerful motor, 500+ Wh battery. Refurbished MTB are ideal for these unpaved trails.
My advice
My preferences around Utrecht: 70% Heuvelrug and Gooi, 20% Groene Hart, 10% Lek. Not because the Lek is less interesting, but because I seek variety—and the Heuvelrug offers me that constantly.
The route I recommend most: Amerongen–Rhenen (45–55 km). Long enough to feel like you're really somewhere else, beautiful enough to leave a lasting impression.
The most underrated, in my opinion: the forests of the Gooi. Everyone knows the Heuvelrug, but the Gooi is quieter, greener, and technically more challenging.
Regarding your e-bike: for Utrecht, a mid-drive motor is essential if you plan to climb the Heuvelrug. A 400 Wh battery is a bit low—minimum 500 Wh, ideally 625 Wh. refurbished a smart choice: new trekking e-bikes (€3,000–4,500) are often disproportionate to your needs. Giant 2021–2023 Cube, Haibike, or Giant offers everything you need for less than €2,500. At Upway, wear parts (chain, brakes, tires) have already been replaced.
FAQ
Which route should you choose for your first long e-bike ride?
The Groene Hart loop (35–45 km) is ideal for beginners. Flat and predictable terrain, perfect for getting to know your e-bike. Head towards Woerden, take a break in Oudewater (really charming), and return via Harmelen. Any comfort or city e-bike will feel at home here.
Can I tackle the Heuvelrug with an urban e-bike?
For the first 20–25 kilometers, yes. After that, it becomes more challenging. An urban e-bike is designed for comfort on flat terrain, not for repeated climbs. If you want to seriously explore the Heuvelrug, a trekking model such as the Cube Kathmandu or Giant is worth the investment.
What battery capacity is needed for 50 km on the Heuvelrug?
Minimum 500 Wh, but 625 Wh is safer. Climbs consume 30–40% more energy than flat terrain—and this difference is more noticeable than you might think. With a small battery, you will probably have to ride more economically in the second half of the route.
Are the Gooi forests suitable for e-bike trekking, or is an MTB required MTB
A good trekking e-bike will suffice, provided it has tires wide tires (minimum 50 mm) and a sturdy frame. The Cube Kathmandu or Giant are ideal.
What is the difference between new refurbished e-bikes refurbished these routes?
Technically: almost none. Financially: €1,000 to €1,500. A refurbished Cube Kathmandu 625 (2022) refurbished the same motor and battery as a new model, but costs €2,400 instead of €3,800. At Upway, wear parts are replaced: technically as good as new, financially second-hand.