- The Most Famous Bicycle Route in the Achterhoek
- A 35-km bike ride through forests and farmland
- Past 8 castles and estates
CASTLES, AVENUES, AND ESTATES
Eight Castles Route
Bring your bikes and drive 20 minutes to Vorden for the Eight Castles Route: the oldest signposted bike route in the Netherlands. Since 1913, signs have guided cyclists along a 35-kilometer route through quiet country roads and oak-lined avenues, past moats and eight stately castles. Most are privately owned, but you can tour the interior of Vorden Castle. Along the way, stop by the watermill and historic vegetable garden at the Hackfort Estate. Feel free to combine your bike ride with a visit to the Hanseatic city of Zutphen.
Step inside the beautifully decorated rooms filled with antique paintings, porcelain, and classic furniture.
Cycle along the stately oak-lined avenue to the castle. Be sure to stop here for a moment to see the historic watermill.
Stroll through the beautiful gardens at De Wiersse Castle, filled with ponds, little bridges, and blooming flowerbeds.
Enjoy a well-deserved break at the brasserie in the estate’s former coach house.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Eight Castles Route
Where does the Eight Castles Route begin?
Where does the Eight Castles Route begin?
The official starting point is on Marktplein in Vorden. Since it’s a loop, you can of course join the route at another location, such as Landgoed Hackfort. Are you coming by car? If so, you can park for free at the Tourist Transfer Point (TOP) on De Bleek in Vorden.
How long is the bike ride?
How long is the bike ride?
The route is about 35 kilometers long, and it takes about 2.5 hours to cycle it without stopping. Would you like to visit a castle, take a walk through an estate, or enjoy a leisurely lunch along the way? Then feel free to set aside half a day to a full day for it.
Is the bike route well marked?
Is the bike route well marked?
The route is clearly marked with distinctive bright yellow signs. Would you prefer to bring a map or get more background information? You can pick up a handy brochure full of fun facts about all the castles and estates at the VVV in Vorden.
Can I bike from the park to the trail?
Can I bike from the park to the trail?
That’s definitely possible. Vorden is about a 15-kilometer bike ride from our park. Including the route itself, you’ll cycle a total of over 65 kilometers. This is a wonderful, relaxing day trip—especially on an e-bike! You can also rent bikes at our park.