Holland Cycling

Long-distance route planning

National long-distance cycle network

LF routes provide a framework for cycling holidays across the Netherlands. Learn how the routes connect, how to recognise their signs and which itineraries to explore.

Explore the route overviewOpen planning guidance
Touring cyclist following a paved long-distance route
Use LF routes as complete journeys or as building blocks for a personal itinerary.

How the network works

National LF routes are intended for cycling holidays and longer journeys. They can be followed as individual routes or combined with other signed links to create a trip that fits your time and interests.

  • Ride a named route from beginning to end.
  • Combine selected sections to create your own itinerary.
  • Connect with European corridors such as the Rhine and North Sea cycle routes.

Route lines are also useful alongside an online cycle route planner and a reliable cycle map.

Check before departure. Long-distance routes and signs can change. Confirm the current alignment, interruptions, ferry operation and access conditions when you prepare each stage.
Printed map and route notes used to plan a cycling journey

Finding the way

Read the signs, but keep a backup

LF routes have traditionally used green-and-white route signs in both directions. Sign design and placement can vary, particularly where an itinerary crosses different regions or overlaps another network.

Look for the route nameConfirm that the sign matches your intended LF itinerary and direction.
Note junctionsRecord key numbered junctions where these help bridge or clarify a stage.
Carry an overviewKeep a map or downloaded route available if a sign is missing or obscured.
Understand cycle signposting

Route directory

Long-distance routes to explore

The directory below preserves the route guides available on Holland Cycling. Distances are planning references from the source material; verify current alignments before relying on them.

RouteListed distanceEndpoints or circuit
LF Coastal Route610 kmCadzand-Bad to Bad Nieuweschans
LF Maas Cycle Route480 kmMaastricht to Hook of Holland
LF Waterline Route410 kmEdam to Bergen op Zoom
LF Zuiderzee Route440 kmAmsterdam circuit
LF3 Hanze Town Route135 kmKampen to Millingen
LF4 Middle of Holland Route300 kmThe Hague to Enschede
LF9 Sea Level Route455 kmBad Nieuweschans to Breda
LF13 Schelde–Rhine Route285 kmVlissingen to Venlo
LF14 Saxons Route290 kmLauwersoog to Enschede
LF16 Vecht Valley Route230 kmZwolle to Darfeld, Germany
LF1760 kmGorinchem to Wijk bij Duurstede
Rhine Cycle Route270 kmMillingen to Hook of Holland
Roman Limes Route220 kmKatwijk to Nijmegen
Tour of Holland1,300 kmArnhem circuit
Tour of Twente165 kmOmmen circuit

Prefer a visual introduction? See the LF route overview with short descriptions and photographs, or compare other long-distance routes.

How to plan

Turn a route line into a workable tour

A named route is the starting point. A dependable itinerary also accounts for distance, services, changing conditions and alternatives.

Choose the character

Compare coast, rivers, historic towns and cross-country connections.

Divide the stages

Set distances around your pace, overnight options and time for stops.

Verify the route

Check current alignments, ferries, construction and transport rules.

Save a fallback

Keep shorter stages and rail alternatives for wind, rain or fatigue.

Named route and endpoint overview
Navigation and signposting context
Links to mapping guidance
Practical checks for each stage

Common questions

Using LF routes with confidence

Answers to the practical questions that arise when a signed route becomes a multi-day journey.

Do I have to follow an LF route from start to finish?

No. You can use one complete route, select individual sections or connect several routes to create a journey that suits your time and interests.

Are LF routes signed in both directions?

Routes may be marked in both directions, but signs can vary or change. Confirm the intended direction and carry independent navigation.

Is a paper map still useful?

Yes. A map provides regional context and remains useful if a device loses power, a route changes or a sign is missing.

Can LF routes connect with European routes?

Yes. Some itineraries connect with wider corridors, including Rhine and North Sea routes. Check the exact handover when planning.

Are the listed distances exact?

Treat them as planning references. Rerouting, diversions and your accommodation choices can change the distance you actually ride.

What should I check immediately before a stage?

Review weather, wind, route works, ferry times, daylight and any transport fallback. Download or note the essential route information.

About this site

Independent guidance for planning by bicycle

Holland Cycling brings route ideas, navigation guidance and trip-planning topics together for people exploring the Netherlands independently.

Route alignments and local conditions can change. Confirm critical details with the relevant route, transport or service provider before departure.

Learn more about this site

Suggest an editorial correction

If a route guide needs clarification, contact Holland Cycling:

info@holland-cycling.com-uk.com

View contact information