Cycling route Oude IJsselstreek and Oost Gelre
Cycling through an atmospheric patchwork landscape of church paths, streams, forest edges, hedgerows, grasslands, and grain fields.
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
Around Varsseveld, you cycle past forest edges and heathlands that give the landscape a calm and natural character. In the Idinkbos and near the Vennebulten, coniferous forests, heath, and sandy paths alternate, creating an ideal setting for a varied ride. On clear days, open stretches offer beautiful views across the greenery.
Along the way, you pass old farmsteads, characteristic farmhouses, and historic route structures such as church paths. Small chapels, windmills, and distinctive ribbons of farms give the region its recognizable Achterhoek character. Bredevoort adds another layer to the journey, with its fortified history and charming historic centre.
You cycle through a small-scale rural landscape of raised fields, grasslands, and grain fields, where hedgerows and tree lines divide the scenery into green chambers. Quiet country roads and field paths create a relaxed ride, far from busy traffic. In every season, the landscape changes its character, from fresh spring greenery to golden harvest fields.
Stream valleys and waterways give the route a natural flow, with small bridges, reed beds, and banks that continually add variety to the landscape. Streams such as the Groenlose Slinge are part of the region’s character, bringing coolness and life to the open countryside. It is precisely these gentle curves that make cycling here so enjoyable and varied.
Ride along with us on this virtual bike tour
Virtually cycling through the Oude IJsselstreek and Oost Gelre is a journey through a peaceful patchwork landscape filled with church paths, hedgerows, raised fields, and small woodlands. In every season, you ride past grain fields and grasslands, with ever-changing views unfolding through the greenery.
Along the way, stream valleys and waterways follow one another, giving the landscape a fresh and natural flow. The combination of rural roads, historic farmsteads, and the charming character of places such as Bredevoort makes this virtual cycling tour distinctly Achterhoek and wonderfully relaxing.
Want to learn more about virtual cycling? THIS IS HOW VIRTUAL CYCLING WORKS
Route map and cycling junctions
Start and finish at cycling junction 38 on the Winterswijkseweg in Vragender. Because this is a circular route, you can also start at one of the other cycling junctions along the route.
Distance: 56 km
Estimated riding time: 3 hours 47 minutes
Elevation gain: 79 m
Paved roads: 61%
Unpaved / semi-paved: 39%
Ideal for: e-bikes and city bikes
Along the way: several options for a coffee break or lunch.
