As an avid cyclist from the Randstad region, a ride on the Utrechtse Heuvelrug is usually fine to plan for a day. But for the Achterhoek? I like to set aside a whole weekend for that. There is something magical about this region: endless unpaved roads, a rich mix of nature and culture, and the perfect atmosphere for a gravel bike adventure. Together with local legend Andrea AND my sister, who was getting on a gravel bike for the first time, I dove into this beautiful region. Two beautiful gravel routes from Landal Stroombroek in the Achterhoek are the result!
text and photos: Femke Meijer & Andrea Lodder
Day 1: On gravel safari with local legend Andrea
On 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 instantly familiar. Andrea smoothly pilots us through meadows, forests and over what she calls "Gucci gravel": that lovely, almost asphalt-like gravel that crunches beautifully under your tyres. For variety, we brave an unpaved climb near Elten, a challenging stretch that you can ride against from several directions.
The lunch stop? Café Motto in Gendringen, a cosy place to catch your breath with good 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 pot-bellied pigs. This varied ride remains fascinating even if you drive it several times.
Back at the park, fortunately, there is a bike wash. No high-tech setup, but with a garden hose and some cleaning gear of your own, you'll get your bike ready for another day. The shed at the cottage proves ideal for storing your equipment safely and dry. A nice bonus for cyclists!
Want more gravel routes from the Achterhoek? Then take a look at these articles
Gravel route in Gelderland: Exploring the Strade Bianche Achterhoek
Day 2: Digging with my sister
On Sunday morning, I wait with my sister for a dry moment. This will be her first introduction to gravel, and despite some mackintoshes along the way, it will be an unforgettable experience. The 50-kilometre route combines forest trails with quiet asphalt roads, perfect for a beginner. It is autumn, so we ride through an enchanting landscape of orange leaves and serene forests.
Lunch at The Heeren van Wolfersveen Might feel a bit posh with our mud patches, but a hot chocolate and a good sandwich don't taste better anywhere. My sister, experienced on road and mountain bikes, is an instant fan of gravel biking. "You feel less pressure to go fast like on the road bike, and it is less technical than mountain biking. You can really enjoy the moment." Mission accomplished!
Landal GreenParks Stroombroek: The ideal starting point
Landal GreenParks De Stroombroek proves to be an excellent base for a gravel weekend. With comfortable accommodation, practical facilities like the bike wash, and endless trails nearby, this is a place I love to return to. The Achterhoek continues to surprise with its diverse trails, friendly atmosphere and sheer charm. Next time, I plan an extra day to explore even more!
Gravel routes in the Achterhoek - Landal GreenParks Stroombroek
In this collection from our collaboration with Landal GreenParks, you can see the routes of all the parks, including Stroombroek! Have fun cycling and if you know any nice routes yourself, please share them in the comments!
More about our partnership 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 basecamp in Friesland!
- On a cycling adventure from Landal GreenParks Waterparc Veluwemeer in Flevoland
- Cycling routes on Schouwen-Duiveland - from Landal GreenParks Resort Haamstede
- Cycling from Landal GreenParks Ouddorp Duin on Goeree-Overflakkee and Zeeland
