Leusden, Achterveld, De Glind

The route takes you along picturesque country roads around Achterveld, a village with a special history. Achterveld was evacuated in 1940 during the Second World War because it lay in the Grebbe line of defence. There was a risk that the area would be flooded as a defence measure against the German troops.

In 1945, Achterveld once again played a crucial role in the history of the war. On 28 April, a secret meeting took place here between representatives of the Allies and the German occupiers. Two days later, on 30 April, these discussions resulted in the Achterveld Agreement. This agreement made large-scale food aid to the severely affected population in the Randstad region possible. Operation Manna was launched from the air, with allied planes dropping food parcels over the Netherlands. Operation Faust began at the same time, with lorries transporting food from Achterveld to the Randstad. These relief operations saved tens of thousands of people from starvation and marked an important moment in the final days of the war.

The route takes you through a rural and wooded area with a rich history. Along the way you can stop at one of the many restaurants and cafés to catch your breath and enjoy the peace and quiet and the beautiful landscape. The combination of nature and history makes this route a special experience.