Six easy-going cycle rides in Zeeland
Original article in Dutch by: Lianne van Rijn, adopted Zeelander and keen cyclist
With so many different and varied routes, Zeeland is an absolute joy for cyclists. I love discovering Zeeland’s landscapes on my racing bike or e-bike. But if you’d rather explore the best of Zeeland on quiet, easy-going routes, here are my top six.
De Zak van Zuid-Beveland - 40,2 km
Go where the wind takes you in Zuid-Beveland. Cycle at your own pace along the paths that meander through the landscape and the charming villages of Nisse and Ellewoutsdijk.This route really comes alive in spring when the fruit orchards are in full bloom. In summer, you’ll find a variety of vibrant wildflowers lining the paths and roads. Autumn is harvest time, marking an extremely busy period for fruit growers. It’s also the perfect moment to visit one of the many roadside fruit stalls or farm shops! But if you really do want a route to follow, the Zuid-Beveland tour is a good one. You can also make the route as long or as short as you want.
Between Breskens and Terneuzen - 60,7 km
The coastal cycle path from Breskens to Terneuzen in Zeeland-Flanders has to be one of my favourites. This route takes you right along the rugged shoreline of the Westerschelde estuary, face to face with huge trading ships coming into port. The route is influenced by the ebb and flow of the Schelde: some parts of the path are submerged at high tide, while the sand banks are revealed at low tide. Be sure to bring a pair of binoculars to spot seals and various bird species. You can also follow this route on the inland side of the dike and enjoy the cycle paths through the polder.
Time for Tholen - 56,8 km
The area around Tholen and Sint Philipsland, surrounded by water and full of gorgeous nature, are best explored on two wheels. The cycle route through Tholen takes you past acres of polders and Zeeland’s unique towns and villages scattered over the islands. The centre of Tholen, which has retained its medieval street pattern, is a treasure trove of listed buildings. You can also see large sections of the historic city walls and fortifications. Between Tholen and Sint Philipsland is the Rammegors nature reserve. This is a haven for plants and animals, especially aquatic birds, which you can observe from the bird hide.As you make your way along the route, you’ll see farmhouses that have been lovingly preserved. Each farm has an information panel full of insights into their history.
Noord-Beveland tour - 52 km
Noord-Beveland is known as the ‘endless island’. And for good reason: cycling here feels incredibly liberating. Nestled between the Oosterschelde and the Veerse Meer, this area has an abundance of seaside cycle paths. Whether you start in Colijnsplaat, Kamperland, Kortgene, Kats or Wissenkerke, the Noord-Beveland tour mostly runs right along the water’s edge. Behind the dikes are various sheltered wetlands where you can observe a range of birds. Be aware that parts of the shore-facing paths can be rather narrow. Cycling in a single line allows other cyclists to pass you easily.
The 'inlands' of Schouwen-Duiveland - 62 km
Schouwen-Duiveland’s varied landscape is well worth exploring. And the best place to start discovering this region’s inlands is from Havenpoort, a free car park in Zierikzee. From there, it’s just a ten-minute cycle to Schuddebeurs forest, connected to Schouwsedijk dike via a pontoon bridge. As you make your way towards the picturesque city of Brouwershaven, you’ll find Noordgouwe, one of the newest settlements on the island and a typically Zeelandic ‘ring village’. Brouwershaven is an extremely varied city. I always stop for a photo opportunity at the windmill, the charming harbour and the town hall. The sea dike looking toward Dreischor offers a panoramic view of the waters of Grevelingenmeer.
Vliedbergen route - 46,1 km
Look closely, and you’ll see that Zeeland is dotted with artificial hills. These ‘vliedbergen’, as they are known, date from the Middle Ages and were used as foundations for motte-and-bailey castles. ‘Vliedbergen’ are particularly prominent in area around Walcheren and are often visible from the roadside. Follow the Vliedbergen route past villages including Grijpskerke, Mariekerke, Biggekerke and Gapinge and see whether you can spot these ancient mounds. Be aware that this route also takes you past the seaside resorts of Zoutelande and Domburg, both places that tend to get very busy on warm, sunny days. But don’t let that put you off exploring this fabulous route! You’ll also cycle past Terra Maris in Oostkapelle, which houses a motte-and-bailey castle reconstruction of a ‘vliedberg’.
Want to read more blogs?
For example, on discovering street art, events in Zeeland’s towns and cities, out and about with Zeeland wildlife, or diving into nature. There’s something for everyone in Zeeland. Get inspired and make the most of your visit to Zeeland. Our blogs will explain what Zeeland lovers do with their time here. Find out more on our blog page!
