Lochem, Laren, Gelselaar

Discover the Achterhoek like never before! Because besides the rural and wooded surroundings, the villages and towns are known for their beautiful cultural and historical sites. For instance, you can know Laren for its country houses and castles. The charming village of Gelselaar has been a protected townscape since 2013; when you cycle through it, you immediately understand why.

On the Verwolde Estate, with the imposing Verwolde House, stands the 'Dikke Boom'. With a circumference of more than seven and a half metres, this oak tree is the thickest oak in the Netherlands! It is estimated that the tree is around 450-500 years old. Park your bike here and walk along the special 'Dikke Boompad', to be followed by yellow-and-black signs, to this special oak tree.

The Sint-Gudula church in Lochem has an even older history: a wooden church must have stood on this spot as early as around the year 900. You can visit the church in the summer months. Admire the paintings, the centuries-old organs and the beautiful vaulted ceiling.

Cycling on the border between Gelderland and Overijssel, you pass through the artists' town of Diepenheim This smallest town in Twente is full of castles and country estates and is a source of inspiration for many artists.

Do you feel inspired too? Come cycle in these irresistible surroundings!