Deventer, Apeldoorn

This beautiful cycle route starts and ends with a good stretch along the river IJssel. The 127 kilometres long river is the longest river that flows exclusively over Dutch territory and was officially spelt with one S until 1991. You cross the IJssel twice by ferry; at Deventer and again at Olst. Don't forget to look around and enjoy the beautiful floodplains, almost all of which are protected nature reserves.

In this old cultural landscape, consisting of sloping meanders, you will find typical stream valley flora, grasslands, lapwings flower meadows and glossy hay meadows, which in turn are important breeding grounds for the spotted crake, black tern or corncrake. Besides many other bird species, deer, hares, beavers, rabbits and otters are occasionally spotted in this area.

Leaving the floodplains, plenty of typical Dutch landscape remains on the route. Between the primeval Dutch countryside, you cycle past Recreation Area Bussloo, the ideal moment for a short or longer break, before continuing your way towards Apeldoorn. In Apeldoorn, you pass Kroondomein Het Loo, which consists of vast forest and heathlands, with its own unique flora and fauna. Do you cycle close enough to spot a fox, or do you interrupt your route to head a little further into the woods?

So much variety of landscapes on one cycle route, through two provinces and also the opportunity to visit the cosy cities of Deventer and Apeldoorn. Choose from the various dismounting opportunities this route offers. Visit the mill, a castle or a church to complete your day out.