PEAK Team member Joyce is a regular visitor – and fan – of De Achterhoek. For the 3rd year in a row, she planned a great route through the desolate part of this beautiful region. With a nice pack of PEAK-riders and great teamwork the 117 kilometers flew by on this beautiful and sunny day.
We traditionally started and finished at Berc Bike Studio Café in Zeddam. Owner Willem opened this ‘biker’s place to be’ in 2019. Gravel, mtb and road cyclists (De Achterhoek has it all) come here for delicious coffees and beers, exclusive clothing, gadgets and bike maintenance. Last but not least, Berc can help you buy your next bike from brands like Kona, De Rosa, Mondraker, Megamo and Orbea. Or even better: realize your customized dream bike for you.
After an excellent coffee and a briefing of today’s plan, we rode out. The route took us through the countryside along the German border, where small villages with typical farmhouses are scattered across a varied landscape with hedgerows, woodlands and meadows. It really feels like if time has stood still.
We invited all PEAK-buddies to count the typical Achterhoek flags, fluttering in the wind (see pic below). Did you know that this flag is inspired by the coulisse landscape? The different shades of green represent the meadows and forests; the slightly curved white cross symbolizes the winding roads of the Achterhoek, lined with rows of trees. There were far too many flags and we lost count …
After 40 km, we stopped for a pee and a small snack and to refill our bidons at the Harmienehoeve in Woold. It was tropically warm (finally!) and we could use some refreshing energy! After a short break, we got on our bikes again and before we knew it we arrived in Groenlo – lunch time @Wissink! During the last part of the ride we said hello to good friend Ingrid’s in Zelhem and her amazing dog Yfke, and to the friendly Gerrit of the legendary Cycling café Parijs is nog ver (famous quote of Joop Zoetemelk during the Tour de France) in Doetinchem. A real must for road cyclists, even if it’s just for all the racing jerseys of the pros hanging on the wall!
Back at Berc Bike we enjoyed some refreshing (alcohol-free!) Estaminet and Brewdog beers and snacks while Willem told us about the latest developments. Thank you for hosting us! The perfect finish of a perfect day of cycling!
