As a keen cyclist from the Randstad, a ride on the Utrecht Heuvelrug is usually easy to plan for a day. But for the Achterhoek? I’d love to dedicate a whole weekend to this region. This region has something magical: endless unpaved roads, a rich mix of nature and culture, and the perfect atmosphere for an adventure on the gravel bike. Together with local legend Andrea And my little sister, who was taking her first steps on a gravel bike, I immersed myself in this beautiful region. Two beautiful gravel routes from Landal Stroombroek in the Achterhoek They are the result!
text and photos: Femke Meijer & Andrea Lodder
Day 1: On a gravel safari with a local legend Andrea
Saturday morning I meet Andrea, a local legend who knows the best gravel trails in the region. Although we only know each other through Instagram, it feels very familiar. Andrea guides us smoothly through meadows, forests and over what she calls “Gucci gravel”: that delicious, almost asphalt-like gravel that squeaks beautifully under your tires. For the variety, we tackle a dirt road climb near Elten, a challenging stretch where you can drive from multiple directions.
The lunch stop? Café Motto in Gendringen, a cozy place where you’ll be blown away by the excellent coffee and hearty sandwiches. The afternoon route surprises us with a mix of farms and unexpected wildlife. Besides cows, we see alpacas, wallabies, and even wombats. This varied ride continues to fascinate, even after you’ve driven it several times.
Back at the park, there is fortunately a bike wash. It’s not high-tech equipment, but with a garden hose and some cleaning supplies you can get your bike ready for a new day. The shed by the house turns out to be ideal for storing your gear safely and dryly. A nice bonus for cyclists!
Do you want to see more gravel routes from the Achterhoek? Then take a look at these articles
Gravel route in Gelderland: Exploring the Strade Bianche Achterhoek
Day 2: Playing with my little sister
On Sunday morning, my sister and I are waiting for a dry spot. This will be her first experience with gravel, and despite some raincoats being brought along, it will be an unforgettable experience. The 50-kilometer route combines forest paths with quiet asphalt roads, perfect for a beginner. It’s autumn, so we’re driving through a mesmerizing landscape of orange leaves and serene forests.
The lunch at The Lords of Wolfersveen It might feel a bit posh with our dirt marks, but a hot chocolate and a good sandwich taste no better. My sister, experienced on the road bike and mountain bike, is immediately a fan of gravel biking. “You feel less pressure to go fast like on the road bike, and it’s less technical than mountain biking. You can really enjoy the moment.” Mission accomplished!
Landal GreenParks Stroombroek: The ideal starting point
Landal De Stroombroek It proves to be an excellent base for a gravel weekend. With comfortable accommodations, practical facilities like the bike wash, and endless routes nearby, this is a place I’d love to return to. The Achterhoek continues to surprise with its diverse trails, friendly atmosphere, and pure charm. Next time, I plan to add an extra day to discover even more!
Gravel routes in the Achterhoek – Landal GreenParks Stroombroek
In this collection of our collaboration with Landal GreenParks, you can see the routes of all the parks, including those of Stream trousersHave fun cycling and if you have a nice route yourself, share it in the comments!
Want to know more about our collaboration with Landal GreenParks? Then read the other articles here:
- Landal GreenParks Berger Duinen – Key moment
- Landal GreenParks – your ideal cycling destination
- Cycling from Landal Sallandse Heuvelrug: beautiful routes in the east of the Netherlands
- Gravel routes in North Brabant: Landal GreenParks Klein Oisterwijk is your starting point!
- Cycling in Limburg starts on the Cauberg
- Landal GreenParks Natuurdorp Suyderoogh: ideal for exploring the Wadden coast
- Landal GreenParks Waterpark Sneekermeer: your base camp in Friesland!
- On a cycling adventure from Landal GreenParks Waterparc Veluwemeer in Flevoland
- Cycling routes in Schouwen-Duiveland – from Landal GreenParks Resort Haamstede
- Cycling from Landal GreenParks Ouddorp Duin on Goeree-Overflakkee and Zeeland
More tips for overnight stays?
Questions & tips
Do you have any questions about this route, or have you been there yourself? Share them here. We read everything and usually respond within a few days.