North Brabant commemorates 80 years of liberation with a series of impressive gravel routes developed by Stichting de Fietsende Fazant. From Friday 19 October 2024, gravel bike enthusiasts can explore five unique routes in North Brabant. Gravel routes that not only offer sporting challenges, but also recall the history of the region. You can start in Bergen op Zoom, Breda, Den Bosch, Eindhoven and Overloon. These gravel routes offer a perfect combination of adventure, nature and history.
Why gravel biking in North Brabant?
North Brabant is the destination of choice for gravel bikers. The province is known for its vast forests, moorlands, and atmospheric villages. These new routes, launched in honour of the 80th anniversary of the liberation of North Brabant, follow in the footsteps of the liberators. The route takes you past impressive war memorials, museums, and unpaved paths where you can feel the region's history.
The routes and starting points
The routes start in:
- Bergen op Zoom: Cycle along the Markiezaatsmeer and discover the history of Brabantse Wal.
- Breda: Explore the forests and fields around the historic town, known for its military heritage.
- Den Bosch: Visit Fort Isabella and its surroundings, a place with special ties to the liberation.
- Eindhoven: Drive through the region liberated in Operation Market Garden in 1944.
- Overloon: Known for its War Museum, this route offers a deep dive into the history of World War II.
All routes are free to download from the Operation Pheasant website and easy to load onto your phone or bike computer. We have also incorporated the Komoot collection into this article! This allows you to explore the routes at your pace. This allows you to completely immerse yourself in the Brabant countryside and its rich history.
Remember, Discover and Win
Besides the sporting adventure, there is also a reward for the go-getters. Will you be one of the first 50 cyclists to complete all five routes? Then you will receive an exclusive Operation Pheasant cycling cap. This makes the challenge extra special for those who want to push their limits and commemorate North Brabant's war past at the same time.
The Meaning of Operation Pheasant
Operation Pheasant is an initiative by Bjorn Kamman (Bjornrides.cc and Liberation Divide), together with Jasper van Gils. The project connects the passion for gravel biking with a piece of history that should not be forgotten. On the site of Operation Pheasant you will find more background information about the routes. There is more info on the liberation and the unique stories behind the monuments and sites.
Plan Your Gravel Adventure in Brabant
North Brabant has a lot to offer for enthusiastic gravel lovers. You have e green surroundings of the Kempen but also the historic forts of the Biesbosch. For more information on cycling accommodation, catering and other attractions in the region, also take a look at VisitBrabant.co.uk.
Whether you are a seasoned gravel biker or just starting out, Operation Pheasant's new gravel routes are a perfect way to celebrate freedom and relive an important period of Dutch history. So grab your gravel bike and discover the beauty and stories of North Brabant!
Gravel routes Operation Pheasant in Brabant
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