The best gravel rides around Molengat
4.7
(9)
176
riders
14
rides
Gravel biking around Molengat, particularly in the Overijssel region, traverses diverse landscapes suitable for cycling. The area features low peat swamps, rolling dry heathlands, and forests, offering varied terrain for gravel bikers. Routes often include networks of unpaved and semi-paved sections, broad sand paths, and hardpack gravel. The region's landscape is shaped by river valleys and includes gentle hills under 200 meters.
Best gravel bike trails around Molengat
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Drents-Friese Wold – Aekingerbroek loop…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
10
riders
110km
06:25
150m
150m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
4.4
(5)
61
riders
43.0km
02:20
70m
70m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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10
riders
106km
05:58
140m
140m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
12
riders
51.3km
03:06
70m
70m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
riders
53.2km
03:13
80m
80m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Tips from the Community
The second-largest dolmen in the Netherlands can be found in Havelte. Dolmen D53 is the only dolmen damaged during the war. The German air force wanted to build an airfield at this location, so the stones were moved. The airfield was bombed to pieces, and the dolmen was excavated and reassembled. The dolmen is approximately 18 meters long, almost complete, and lies on the edge of a heathland. Along with dolmens D54 and D52, it is one of the few in this part of Drenthe. Dolmen D54 is slightly smaller than D53. It lies in the middle of a small sandy plain surrounded by grass. It is a beautiful walking area around these dolmens, as the small sandy plain is surrounded by heathland, small forests, and meadows. Dolmen D53 and D54 are a must-see on your dolmen tour because they are complete, well-maintained, and impressive. If you're coming from Havelte, you can follow the main road, which will take you past a side road. If you take this, the dolmen is almost immediately on your left. Continue driving a little further, and you'll find dolmen D54. Source: https://www.drenthe.nl/locaties/1800662783/hunebed-d53-en-d54-1
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D52 is a medium-sized dolmen consisting of six capstones, three of which rest on, and 3 between, the fourteen side stones. Furthermore, there are two closing stones and one portal stone. The position of the other portal stone is marked with a lead seal. One capstone is missing. During the inventory by Van Giffen in 1918, the dolmen was described as being "in a completely dilapidated state". The stones lying scattered here and there no longer deserved the name dolmen. Under his leadership, the dolmen was thoroughly restored in 1953/54, during which most of the side stones had to be re-erected and secured. Archaeologists today believe that Van Giffen went too far in his restoration zeal. For example, he could no longer determine the function of six stones himself, and even the original number of capstones was unknown to him. Nevertheless, there is now a virtually complete dolmen again. However, it is more the result of guesswork than of a responsible restoration. In November 2008, 3 capstones were defaced with blue paint. The damage was repaired as well as possible shortly thereafter. In early April 2011, a fire was lit in the burial chamber, causing a large crack in one of the supporting stones. This will be repaired as soon as possible.
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Landhotel Diever is also located here for a delicious lunch on the way
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Beautiful forests (especially in autumn!) alternate with vast heaths. Nice paths to gravel over; from hard sand paths to gravel and cobblestone roads.
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The Dwingelerveld offers everything that makes cycling in Drenthe so wonderful: forests, heaths, moors, and beautiful cycle paths. Highly recommended
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Molengat located for gravel biking?
Molengat, for the purpose of gravel biking, primarily refers to an area within the Overijssel province of the Netherlands. This region is known for its diverse landscapes, including low peat swamps, rolling dry heathlands, and forests, all suitable for gravel cycling.
How many gravel bike trails are available around Molengat?
There are over 20 gravel bike trails available around Molengat, offering a variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has explored these routes over 200 times.
Are there any easy gravel bike trails for beginners or families in Molengat?
Yes, Molengat offers options for beginners and families. For an easier ride, consider the Bosveen – Holtingerveld Nature Reserve loop from Steenwijk. This route is 28.8 km long with an elevation gain of about 52 meters, providing a more accessible experience through the Holtingerveld Nature Reserve.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Molengat's gravel routes?
Gravel routes around Molengat feature a varied terrain. You'll encounter networks of unpaved and semi-paved sections, broad sand paths, and hardpack gravel. The landscape includes low peat swamps, rolling dry heathlands, and forests, with gentle hills typically under 200 meters, especially in areas like the Sallandse Heuvelrug National Park.
Are there any long-distance gravel routes in Molengat?
Yes, Molengat has several longer gravel routes. One of the longest is the Dolmen D53 – Drents-Friese Wold loop from Steenwijk, which spans 107.8 km with an elevation gain of over 150 meters. Another significant option is the Dolmen D53 – Dolmen D53 (Holtingerveld) loop from Steenwijk, covering 82.2 km.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about Molengat?
The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Molengat, with an average score of 4.5 stars from nearly 10 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, from peat swamps to heathlands and forests, and the variety of unpaved paths that make for an engaging gravel ride.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes in Molengat?
Yes, many of the gravel routes in Molengat are designed as loops. Examples include the Dolmen D53 – Dolmens of Holtingerveld loop from Steenwijk (40.3 km) and the Bosveen – Holtingerveld Nature Reserve loop from Steenwijk (28.8 km), allowing you to start and finish at the same point.
What kind of wildlife or natural features can I expect to see while gravel biking in Molengat?
While gravel biking in Molengat, particularly in Overijssel, you can expect to encounter diverse natural features. The region is home to low peat swamps, rolling dry heathlands, and forests. Areas like Weerribben-Wieden National Park and Sallandse Heuvelrug National Park offer opportunities to observe local flora and fauna in their natural habitats.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Molengat?
The diverse landscapes of Molengat, with its peat swamps, heathlands, and forests, offer enjoyable gravel biking experiences throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn often provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. While winter biking is possible, be prepared for potentially wet or muddy conditions, especially in lower-lying areas.
Are there any specific nature reserves or parks that Molengat's gravel routes pass through?
Yes, several gravel routes in the Molengat area traverse or are near significant nature reserves. For instance, routes often pass through or close to the Holtingerveld Nature Reserve, and the broader region includes areas like Weerribben-Wieden National Park and Sallandse Heuvelrug National Park, known for their unique landscapes.
Are there any advanced or difficult gravel routes in Molengat?
Yes, Molengat offers several challenging routes for experienced gravel bikers. For example, the Drents-Friese Wold – Dolmen D53 loop from Steenwijk is a difficult 73.6 km route with a significant elevation gain of about 95 meters, providing a demanding ride through varied terrain.
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