Mountain Bike Route
About Schaarsbergen & Its Natural Surroundings
Schaarsbergen lies just northeast of Arnhem, intertwined with centuries-old estates such as Groot Warnsborn and Zypendaal. Once shaped by workers cultivating the heath and forests at the behest of local nobility, today it offers peace, history, and nature all in one.
The area features a diverse landscape: dense oak and beech forests, open heathlands, winding trails, and glistening ponds. From Arnhem, you can step right into the Veluwe, with its natural elevation changes, drifting sands, and varied forest floors.
Schaarsbergen also offers cultural highlights: visit the Arnhem War Museum ’40–’45, located in a former village school, or explore a WWII German bunker with the codename “Diogenes.” A thrilling mix of nature and history.
Blue Route
| Details | Info |
|---|---|
| Distance | 25.3 km |
| Time | ± 1 hour 59 minutes |
| Elevation Gain | +110 m |
| Elevation Loss | −110 m |
| Difficulty | Intermediate (for experienced riders) |
| Waymarking | Blue international MTB symbols |
This route is part of the MTB South Veluwe network and starts near well-known spots such as Papendal, the Mountain Bike Museum, and the A12 carpool lot. The terrain is undulating, with countless short climbs and technical singletracks full of flow, sharp turns, and varied surfaces, ranging from sand to forest soil.
Tips & Highlights
- Technical sections & flow: The route offers both technically challenging parts and flowing segments where you can pick up speed — perfect for experienced mountain bikers.
- Crossings & shared trails: Watch out for crossings with equestrian and walking paths. Maintenance is done by volunteers, often on weekends — a kind reminder to stay alert and adjust your speed.
- Parking & starting points: Park at Papendal, the Mountain Bike Museum (Kemperbergerweg 5a), or the A12 carpool lot in Arnhem North.
- Voluntary contribution: The route is free to ride, but a voluntary donation is appreciated to support upkeep.
- Activities nearby: Combine your MTB ride with a visit to the Groot Warnsborn estate, the “Diogenes” bunker, or the Arnhem War Museum. The Open Air Museum, Burgers’ Zoo, and the entrance to Hoge Veluwe National Park (at Koningsweg, Schaarsbergen) are all nearby.
What Makes This Route Special
In addition to MTB thrills, this route offers:
- Scenic beauty: forest, heath, ponds, and Veluwe sand dunes make every ride visually rewarding.
- History: WWII bunkers, war museums, and the region’s stately estates.
- Versatile recreation: the perfect combo of sport, culture, and outdoor relaxation.
For advanced mountain bikers, this route offers the ideal mix of flow and challenge, as many riders have confirmed.
Practical Wrap-Up
Preparation:
Check the South Veluwe MTB site or Komoot for up-to-date GPX files and route updates. Download Route GPX
Starting point:
Start at Papendal or the MTB locations in Arnhem North.
On the trail:
Follow the blue signs, watch for other trail users, and take a break at Warnsborn if needed.
After your ride:
Take time to visit a museum or the nearby forest — a perfect way to relax after the ride.
Stay Overnight with Holiday Homes Maridu
After an active day in nature, there’s nothing better than unwinding in a comfortable, atmospheric setting. Stay in one of our luxury forest cabins in Schaarsbergen, such as the Forest Cube, Forest Lodge, Wellness or Ayla. Surrounded by greenery, with all the comfort you need for the perfect recovery moment. Enjoy the peace, the forest and yourself.
The blue MTB route in Schaarsbergen is a top choice for experienced riders: nearly 26 km of fun in varied nature, technical challenges, and intriguing historical stops. A perfect adventure during your stay at Holiday Homes Maridu!
Enjoy the ride and the flow, the silence, and the history Schaarsbergen has to offer!
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