CYCLING ROUTE · GELDERLAND

Cycling Route Oude IJsselstreek and Oost Gelre

Cycle through an atmospheric patchwork landscape of church paths, streams, forest edges, hedgerows, grasslands, and grain fields in the heart of the Achterhoek.

Cycling route through Oude IJsselstreek and Oost Gelre

The Landscape

The Oude IJsselstreek and Oost Gelre showcase the Achterhoek landscape at its finest: small-scale, green, and rich in history. On the former heathlands, centuries of farming created a mosaic of raised fields, country lanes, and hedgerows, with farmhouses that have often been rooted in the landscape for generations. Between the fields, streams and drainage channels shimmer in the light, so that every bend reveals a new view.
From ancient river dunes and sandy soils, the route winds past woodlands, fields, and meadows toward the quiet church paths of Oost Gelre. Here, open spaces and sheltered lanes alternate, with scattered farmsteads and small nature areas adding peace and variety to the landscape. Together, they tell the story of a region where nature and culture have strengthened one another for centuries.

What You'll Discover Along the Way

Forests and heathlands around Varsseveld

Forests and Heaths

Around Varsseveld, forest edges and heathlands create a calm and natural character. In the Idinkbos and near the Vennebulten, coniferous forests, heath, and sandy paths alternate, while open stretches offer beautiful views across the greenery.

Estates and heritage in the Achterhoek

Estates and Heritage

Old farmsteads, characteristic farmhouses, church paths, small chapels, and windmills reveal the distinctive Achterhoek character. Bredevoort adds another layer of history with its fortified past and charming historic centre.

Farmlands and raised fields in the Achterhoek

Polders and Farmlands

Raised fields, grasslands, and grain fields form a small-scale rural landscape divided by hedgerows and tree lines. Quiet country roads and field paths create a relaxed ride through changing scenery throughout the seasons.

Rivers and streams in the Achterhoek

Rivers and Streams

Stream valleys and waterways give the route a natural flow, with small bridges, reed beds, and green banks adding variety. Streams such as the Groenlose Slinge bring coolness and life to the surrounding countryside.

Virtual Cycling Through Oude IJsselstreek and Oost Gelre

Experience the atmospheric landscape of Oude IJsselstreek and Oost Gelre with its quiet church paths, streams, forest edges, hedgerows, grasslands, and grain fields. The route takes you through the characteristic Achterhoek countryside, where raised fields, historic farmsteads, wooded areas, and small nature reserves create a varied landscape shaped by centuries of farming and settlement.

Virtual cycling through Oude IJsselstreek and Oost Gelre

Experience the route from home with virtual cycling.

Route Map and Cycling Junctions

Start and finish near cycling junction 38 on the Winterswijkseweg in Vragender. Because this is a circular route, you can also start at another junction along the route.
38 80 33 32 89 27 28 26 31 18 30 29 34 17 15 16 19 48 69 43 65 44 45 17 12 53 38

Route Details

Distance 56 km
Riding time 3 h 47 min
Elevation gain 79 m
Paved 61%
Unpaved / semi-paved 39%
Ideal for E-bikes & city bikes

Along the way: several options for a coffee break or lunch.

Discover More Cycling Routes

Explore more Gelderland landscapes and find your next cycling adventure in nature.

EXPLORE ALL CYCLING ROUTES IN GELDERLAND →