The Trans Euro Trail: Europe’s Most Beautiful Detour

A GPX adventure route that winds across the continent – more than 100,000 kilometers long, spread over 36 countries, and completely legal to ride. The TET is made for riders with a sense of adventure. No circuits, no races, no speed demons. Just endless stretches of dirt roads, gravel paths, forest trails, cart tracks, and rocky roads. Always legal, always public, but often undiscovered. It’s not a destination, but a journey of discovery. And the best part? The route is alive and constantly evolving thanks to the community.

Who Maintains the TET?

The Trans Euro Trail was founded by Brit John Ross, himself a passionate off-road rider. What began as an idea to map out legal off-road paths has grown into a community project with local “Linesmen” in every country. They map out the trails, check updates, and ensure everything complies with local regulations. On www.transeurotrail.org you’ll not only find the GPX routes but also local contacts, rules, and status updates per country. The TET is not a static trail but a living line – one that continuously adapts to terrain, seasons, and regulations.

What Does the TET Look Like in Belgium and the Netherlands?

In Belgium, the TET starts in several places in Flanders before heading south into Wallonia. You’ll ride along country roads, field paths, gravel lanes, and through villages you’d normally bypass. About 80% of the route is paved, with 20% off-road sections at beginner level – a great introduction for those just starting out with off-road riding.

Watch out for F99c signs (no entry for motorcycles). These are sometimes placed without the linesman being informed. Ultimately, it’s your responsibility to ride legally and avoid problems.

In the Netherlands, the route is a mix of sand, clay, field paths, and dikes. It passes through Brabant, Limburg, and Drenthe. Technically less demanding, but ideal for a relaxed ride with plenty of landscape variety. The Dutch section is characterized by its wide-open views over the flat countryside.

The Real Adventure Begins in France

France is where things get serious. The trail winds through the Vosges, Cévennes, the Massif Central, and into the Alps. You’ll encounter rugged gravel roads, abandoned villages, and mountain passes where both experience and fitness come in handy. This is where you truly feel the TET spirit: riding for hours without meeting anyone, with only nature as your companion.

In every country, the rules are the same: respect the route, the environment, and the locals. Wild camping is prohibited in many places. Greet locals, ride with control, and stick to the official trail. This is how we keep the project legal and alive.

Why October is the Perfect Time to Ride

Many TET riders consider October one of the best times to set off. Temperatures are milder, you’ll overheat less in your gear, and the peak tourist season is over — which means fewer hikers, cyclists, and oncoming traffic on narrow trails.

The risk of wildfires in countries like France is also much lower, and most off-road segments remain rideable before winter sets in. Add the autumn colors and calmer atmosphere, and it’s easy to see why this is the favorite season for those who truly want to experience the TET.

What to Bring on a TET Adventure?

Your motorcycle, ofcourse

A light adventure or enduro bike is ideal. Avoid heavy mastodons of +250 kg, because what falls, you’ll have to pick up again! The less weight, the easier it is to keep upright when the trail takes control.

The right luggage – because gas stations run by wildlife don’t exist

Bring enough fluids for yourself and your bike. A hydration pack or water bottle is essential, especially on hot or dusty days. Don’t forget extra fuel: a little “motivation” can make a big difference. Off-road riding and constant gear changes burn more fuel, so always start with a full tank, especially before long and remote stretches.

Pack your fluids and tools in compact luggage: think saddle or pannier bags and/or soft panniers. These are lighter than hard panniers, more forgiving in a slide, and easier to reposition on uneven terrain.

Your gear

An adventure helmet is perfect: plenty of ventilation, wide visibility, and a sun peak to protect against dust and low sun.

Waterproof gear with ventilation zippers is a must, but choose adventure clothing that remains light and flexible. Heavy or stiff gear can limit your movement during technical sections or when riding standing up. Modular outfits with CE-level 2 protectors are ideal. Solid adventure boots provide grip, protection, and support on loose surfaces, without making shifting difficult.

For navigation, you have two options. The most obvious is your smartphone: combine it with a RAM Mount and a waterproof case for a reliable, flexible way to follow GPX routes. The second option is a GPS device – perfect for longer trips or for those who don’t want to risk drained batteries or overheated phones. In another article, we’ll compare the most popular TomTom and Garmin systems so you can choose the one that fits your riding style.

Experience extras

Think first aid kit, tire levers, mini pump, and possibly an extra chain or throttle/clutch cable. A compact multitool, duct tape, and a few zip ties can save you a lot of frustration on the road. Collect your tools in a tool bag, share the rest of the load with your group, and above all: think universal. If you use your smartphone for navigation, make sure you have a charging option on your bike to keep it powered on the go.

Ready to Hit the Road?

In short, the TET is not an organized trip but an open invitation. No finish line, no support cars, no applause. Just you, your bike, and whatever off-road Europe has to offer.

Ride with respect – for the trail, for nature, and for the volunteers who make it possible. Set off well-prepared, and come back with epic stories, muddy boots, and a wide grin. Because the TET is not the fastest way from A to B, but it is the most fun detour you’ll ever take.