Are you looking for the ultimate cycling adventure in the Netherlands? The picturesque Goeree-Overflakkee and the impressive Zeeland offer the perfect setting for a weekend filled with challenging cycling routes, breathtaking views, and local delicacies. Ideal for those who enjoy cycling through picturesque landscapes and discovering interesting stops along the way. A Weekend Full of Wind, Water, and Beautiful Routes. All about cycling from Landal Strandresort Ouddorp Duin Read it here!
Text and photos: Wouter van den Boogaard
Day 1: Arrival in Ouddorp
On Friday afternoon, the adventure begins. We drive through picturesque villages towards Ouddorp to avoid traffic jams. The sun shines brightly in the clear blue sky, and modern and antique windmills dot the Dutch landscape everywhere. Through dykes and bridges, we reach the peaceful Goeree-Overflakkee.
Upon arrival at the Landal Ouddorp Duin parking lot, we are greeted by the beautiful weather. Checking in via the app went smoothly and quickly. We also requested a physical key, which turns out to be a “tag.” Our spacious cottage is beautifully tucked away in the dunes, within walking distance of the sea. We stay in a beautiful 8-person villa, perfect for our anticipated traveling party of 6 people, some of whom are not a couple. This way, we have the space we’d like to see!
We want to explore the surroundings and immediately grab our bikes. A Strava suggestion takes us on a fantastic 45-kilometer route. We cycle over dykes and even take a ride along the Brouwersdam. Through a Gooi gravel path, we end up back in the park, where we enjoy some delicious pasta to replenish our energy.
Day 2: Cycling through Zeeland – Wind as a Challenge
On Saturday morning, we start the day with freshly baked bread rolls from Spar on the park. Today we have Zeeland on the agenda, and the wind can be felt immediately. No wonder there are so many wind turbines here!
The wind is coming from the north, which means we are flying over the Oosterscheldekering at about 40 km/h without really having to pedal hard. We are impressed by the waterworks and think of the history of the flood disaster of 1953.
Halfway through the route, we have to cross the 5-kilometer-long Zeeland Bridge. Here we have full headwinds. On a train we cycle across the bridge, but even with 330 watts on the top, we only manage 23 km/h. Tip: Make sure you have the wind with you when you cross this bridge!
With more than 80 kilometers in our legs, we stop in Bruinisse for a refreshing colada, a pancake and coffee. We fill our water bottles for the final 40 kilometers. Before returning to Landal Ouddorp Duin, we pass the old center of Ouddorp. On the terrace next to the church, we enjoy the sun and the delicious shrimp croquettes. The 0.0 beers also taste good.
Day 3: Tour of Goeree-Overflakkee
On Sunday we keep it quieter and stay close by with a tour around Goeree-Overflakkee. A local club cyclist joins us and tells that there is a lot of road biking in this region and even on the wide beach in the winter. The pace picks up considerably thanks to our temporary host, and we enjoy the challenge.
In Oude-Tonge there is Hotel Restaurant Lely Fortunately, the restaurant is open; something that is not a given in this area. The apple pie here is delicious and the service is very friendly.
Upon returning, we discover that there is a fair taking place in the park. We stop by the various stalls for a soft drink and also buy a souvenir to take home. Then it’s time to set off on our journey. The TV in the cottage has a wide selection of Dutch and German channels.
Cycling tips for Zeeland and Goeree-Overflakkee
Make sure you are well prepared for the wind in this region. Cycling with the wind can be tough, but it is also a good way to train for a cycling trip to the mountains. Don’t forget to enjoy everything this region has to offer along the way, from impressive waterworks to picturesque villages. For more tips on visiting Goeree-Overflakkee, visit website of the tourism agency.
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.