Fans of dirt tracks and gravel, beware; it could just as easily cause your heart to start racing. West-Zeeuws-Vlaanderen. When you think of Zeeland, you probably think of the sea, the beach, Concert at SEA, and Bløf. But did you know that you can drive for kilometers and kilometers over gravel roads here, hear the gravel crunch under your tires, and almost never encounter a traffic light? Although the wind has plenty of room here, it is a beautiful cycling province. In this blog, we take you to the southernmost part of Zeeland.
West Zeeuws Flanders Gravel
When you say West Zeeuws-Vlaanderen, you are also talking about the friendliness of the coast in villages like Cadzand and Breskens, and the tranquility and space of the countryside. In West Zeeuws-Vlaanderen you will find three MTB routes; IJzendijke, Sluis en Border region. These routes take you to the quietest places in the vast polder landscape, through picturesque villages and past historic fortress dikes. Although they are designed for mountain bikers, it is the gravel enthusiasts who can really get their money’s worth here. You cycle over country lanes, gravel tracks and gravel paths, a kind of Paris-Roubaix and Strade Bianche experience all in one! The roads are almost completely to yourself and there is plenty of space to clear your head. So gravel in Zeeland is closer than you think.
We are staying at the Flamingo Studios in Schoondijke during our trip to West Zeeuws-Vlaanderen. A good tip if you want to explore the region again. Want to know more about this accommodation? Check it out here: Flamingo Studios Schoondijke
Welcoming and pleasant
We cycle along paths that wind through the most beautiful houses and where newborn lambs are frolicking on the embankment. A farmer is busy caring for them. When we stop to admire the lambs, he immediately starts chatting with us. With his strong Zeelandic accent, he proudly tells us that a quadruplet has been born.“The one who with those green stripes on his back, who has already done it before.”,“ he says, pointing to a little lamb. We chat a bit about life as a farmer and about our bike trip. When we get back on the bike, he says“day ee”With a smile on our faces, we continue cycling.
A journey to the Middle Ages: The Lost Zwinhaven Cycle Route
If you’re looking for culture or just want to go shopping, bustling Bruges and Knokke are nearby. Cities like Antwerp and Ghent are also not far away. Or go on an adventure at ‘Across the street’And visit Middelburg.
READ ALSO: Tips for your first time gravel biking
The taste of Zeeland-Flanders
Whether you want to have a nice lunch during your bike ride, or spend the day over dinner, there is something for everyone in Zeeland. Burgundian life and delicious food are part of the culture. Did you know that in Zeeland you find the most star restaurants per capita? But you also find hip beach clubs and cozy brasseries where you can taste the flavors of Zeeland on your plate. And with the most sunshine hours of any country in the Netherlands, you’re in luck with a beer on the terrace. These were our favorites:
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- Salt & Salt (Retranchement)
Small-scale, personal, and here they go the extra mile. At Zilt & Zout you’ll find the best fish dishes using local ingredients.
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- Love, Lies (Breskens)
Pastel pink chairs, gold cutlery and cappuccinos with a coffee print. From Liefs Lies, many women’s hearts will beat faster. It’s not only mega hip; the food looks fantastic and is different from what you’re used to from a breakfast/lunchroom.
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- Moio Beach (Cadzand)
Delicious food with a view of the sea. Everyone will be happy about that!
0 responses
2 summers ago we spent a weekend in Ijsendijke. It is indeed a beautiful area, especially for returning again. At that time I already had a gravel bike, but I lacked enough local knowledge to fully enjoy the gravel riding. I would like to ride the proposed gravel trails in the near future
Further inland in Zeeland there are plenty of beautiful gravel paths to be found. But these are truly gems, especially when combined with the surrounding area and the gastronomy.
Beautiful story about this beautiful part of the Netherlands. I regularly cycle across the other side from Middelburg. Yes, I live in Zeeland. The route along the Zwin is certainly beautiful, and it’s also nice to follow the border pillar route. You’re so close to the southern neighbors, and indeed the gravel roads are plenty; that makes for a total of 11 lanes.
Enjoying the sunshine in Zeeland
Say that Philip! beautiful routes and a wonderful region