Skip the Airport and Take One of These Scenic Road Trips from the Netherlands
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You do not need to deal with chaotic airports to feel like you are actually on vacation. A real break often comes down to a full tank of gas, an early morning start, a great playlist, and the open road. Road trips give you complete control over your travel experience. You set the pace, pick the detours, and let the best moments happen spontaneously. If you live in the Netherlands, you have access to incredible driving routes right in your backyard or just a short drive across the border. Here are some of our favorite scenic road trips from the Netherlands
The Hunebed Highway, Netherlands
60 kilometers
Follow the N34 from Zuidlaren to Coevorden
People often call the N34 in Drenthe the Dutch Route 66, and once you drive it, you will easily see why. This 60-kilometer stretch from Zuidlaren to Coevorden is all about the vibe. Along the way, you pass 47 hunebeds—ancient stone tombs that add a quiet, mysterious feel to the surrounding landscape. But there is much more to see here than just history.
The scenery constantly changes as you cruise through Geopark de Hondsrug, a rugged area shaped during the Ice Age. Dense forests quickly give way to wide, sweeping fields. Take time to stretch your legs at the Boomkroonpad, walk the Balloërveld, or cool off at ’t Nije Hemelriek. The water at this recreational lake is so incredibly clear that it almost feels tropical. Take this drive at a lazy pace and pull over whenever something catches your eye.
The Mergelland Route, Netherlands
112 kilometers
Follow the brown and white hexagonal Mergelland signs from Maastricht Station
South Limburg feels entirely different from the rest of the country, and the Mergelland Route is the absolute best way to see it. Beginning and ending in Maastricht, this 112-kilometer loop guides you through some uniquely striking scenery. Just follow the famous six-sided signs, sit back, and enjoy the ride.
Rolling hills, winding roads, and expansive views steal the show here. You will drive past the exact point where the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany meet, as well as historic spots like the Wittem Monastery. If you time it right, you may spot the old Miljoenenlijn steam train chugging along the tracks. Make sure to stop at the viewing tower in Mesch for incredible panoramic views of the countryside. This drive practically begs you to roll the windows down and take it all in.
Bollenstreek Route, Netherlands
62 kilometers
A circular route from Oegstgeest via Katwijk, Noordwijk, Hillegom, and Lisse
When you want a dramatic burst of color, steer your car toward the Bollenstreek. This circular route wraps around Oegstgeest and winds through Katwijk, Noordwijk, Hillegom, and Lisse. Around mid-April, the fields explode with blooming tulips, hyacinths, and daffodils. It looks like a painting come to life.
Stopping at Keukenhof makes perfect sense, but this drive gives you more than just flowers. The route hugs the coast, letting you mix vibrant fields with fresh sea air. Park the car at National Park Hollandse Duinen to explore the sandy trails, or head to the Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen to spot foxes and fallow deer. If you feel adventurous, push on to Zuid-Kennemerland to see wild Scottish Highland cattle. This mix of vivid nature and ocean breezes makes for an incredibly satisfying day out.
The Eifel, Germany
280 kilometers
Via Venlo and the A61, then through Nürburg and Monschau
The Eifel region feels wildly different the second you cross into it. It is a very easy and scenic road trip from the Netherlands, yet it carries a distinct, rugged charm. Many gearheads know it for the famous Nürburgring track, but the sweeping roads and dramatic landscapes are the real draw for a proper road trip.
The German Volcano Route is an absolute must-do. This 280-kilometer path takes you past ancient lava fields, brilliant crater lakes known as maars, and a fascinating cold-water geyser near Laacher See.
Alternatively, the Moselschiefer-Strasse offers stunning views of steep vineyards and imposing castles along the Moselle River. If you want a charming base camp, park yourself in Monschau. The timber-framed houses and cozy taverns make it the perfect spot to unwind after a long day of driving.
The Spessart, Germany, and the Romantic Road
430 kilometers
Via Arnhem and the A3 towards Frankfurt, Marktheidenfeld, and Würzburg
Push a little deeper into Germany, and you will hit the Spessart, a quiet region defined by rolling hills and deep forests. Once you exit the highway near Aschaffenburg, the roads become smooth, winding, and incredibly fun to drive. You will pass through tiny villages that look like they belong in a fairytale.
Marktheidenfeld is a fantastic pit stop. Grab lunch in the charming market square before taking the B8 road to Würzburg. Würzburg itself is packed with sights, from the lively Alte Main Bridge to the massive Würzburg Residence, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site.
From Würzburg, you officially hit the Romantic Road. This legendary 460-kilometer route stretches all the way to the Alps. You will cruise through perfectly preserved medieval towns like Rothenburg ob der Tauber before finally arriving at the famous Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau castles. Give yourself a full week to truly do this route justice.
Alsace, France
550 kilometers
Via Hazeldonk on the A16 towards Metz and beyond
Just over the French border, the Alsace region delivers a massive dose of charm. German and French cultures clash together here, creating incredible architecture and even better food. The Route des Vins d’Alsace is your golden ticket to exploring the area. It spans 170 kilometers from Marlenheim to Thann, weaving through endless vineyards and picture-perfect villages like Ribeauvillé, Riquewihr, and Eguisheim.
Alsace is meant to be savored. Pull over at a local vineyard for a tasting, grab a table on a sunny terrace for a long lunch, and treat yourself to a hearty dinner. A massive plate of traditional choucroute garnie paired with local white wine is the ultimate reward after hours behind the wheel.
Each of these routes gives you the space to breathe and genuinely enjoy the act of traveling. That sense of freedom is exactly what Carvendo is all about. Carvendo is the perfect companion for your road trip adventures, ensuring that your travels through the scenic routes in the Netherlands, France, and Germany are seamless and enjoyable.