Cycling on Texel is a great way to explore the island. With over 140 kilometers of cycling paths through vast nature reserves, dunes, and along the coast, Texel is the ultimate cycling island. Whether you choose a short ride through the villages or a longer route through the National Park, Texel offers a unique experience for every cyclist. In this article, we discuss the best cycling routes and places to bike on Texel, so you can get the most out of your cycling trip.
Cycling through the Texel Dunes National Park
One of the most popular cycling locations on Texel is the Texel Dunes National Park. This nature reserve stretches along the entire west coast of the island and offers various routes through forests, dunes, and along the beach. A must-see is the route through De Slufter, a unique salt marsh area where you have beautiful views over the sea and the surrounding landscape. The cycling route through the park is about 15 kilometers long and gives you an excellent impression of Texel’s diversity.
From the Lighthouse to De Cocksdorp
The bike ride to the lighthouse in the northern part of Texel is one of the island’s most iconic routes. This route takes you along the vast beaches and through the peaceful dunes of the island. Once you reach Texel’s lighthouse, you can enjoy a spectacular view of both the North Sea and the Wadden Sea. The route to De Cocksdorp is about 20 kilometers and offers plenty of peace and space, perfect for a relaxing bike ride.
Hoge Berg and Oudeschild Cycling Route
For those who love culture and history, the cycling route through the Hoge Berg area is highly recommended. This oldest part of Texel is characterized by its rolling landscape, historic sheep sheds, and traditional garden walls. Along the way, you pass through Oudeschild, the only village on Texel located along the Wadden Sea, where you can visit the harbor and enjoy fresh fish. This 25-kilometer cycling route takes you through the rural heart of Texel, with plenty of opportunities to pause and enjoy the scenery.
Cycling through the Texel Forest: the Krimbos and the Dennen
The Krimbos, located in the northern part of the island, is perfect for short bike rides through the forest. With various routes ranging from 5 to 10 kilometers, this area offers plenty of shaded paths through a mix of deciduous and coniferous trees. Further south lies the Texel Dennenbos, where the bike paths meander through the forest landscape, passing cozy picnic spots along the way. This area is also very suitable for families due to the well-maintained cycling paths and the quiet surroundings.
Cycling along the Waddendijk
One of the most beautiful and relaxing cycling routes on Texel is the route along the Waddendijk. This dike protects Texel from the waters of the Wadden Sea and offers stunning views over the mudflats and the birds that live there. The route runs from Oudeschild to De Cocksdorp and is about 30 kilometers long. Along the way, you’ll find several viewpoints where you can stop to enjoy the scenery.
Explore the Villages by Bike
Texel not only has beautiful nature but also charming villages that are perfect to explore by bike. Den Burg, the largest village on Texel, is the commercial heart of the island and ideal for a stop during your bike ride. Other nice villages to cycle through are Oosterend, with its historic charm, and De Koog, where the sea is always nearby. The cycling routes between these villages are well signposted and offer a mix of quiet paths and lively town centers.
Texel, the Perfect Cycling Island
Cycling on Texel offers something for everyone. From rides through the National Park and along the lighthouse to routes through historic villages and along the Wadden Sea, on Texel, you can enjoy the island’s versatility while discovering its most beautiful spots at your own pace. With well-developed cycling paths and a varied landscape, Texel is a true cycling paradise for both recreational and experienced cyclists.
Make sure to grab a bike during your next visit to Texel and discover the charm of this beautiful Wadden Island for yourself.
