Dipping my feet in the North sea

Distance: 350-400 km
Length: 4-5 days

One of the first goals I’ve set myself, is to ride to the North Sea. I’ve always loved the sea, and it’s time to revisit the Dutch province of Zeeland once more. In the past, I went there by car, but the country is known for its amazing cycle paths. The wind may be a challenge for this one. The region is where the world championship “cycling against the wind” takes place. A strong south western wind is rather common. I plan to start from my hometown Vlimmeren in Belgium, and I want to visit some nice towns on this tour. The province is known for some amazing historical old towns and cities like Domburg, Middelburg or Veere.

Pic: Dietmar Rabich
Creative Commons license

Planning has started

Since I’ve been to the province of Zealand pretty often, just not by bike yet, I’ve got a pretty solid idea of where to go. There are a number of interesting towns and villages I want to visit on this trip.

The map below shows a rough travel plan. Obviously, that plan is still going to change quite a bit, depending on conditions, places I can stay, or even roadworks. Those are things I’m looking at, at the moment. But for now, the route should give you an idea of what I plan to do.

Depending on how my fitness progresses, I plan to do this tour somewhere in May or June 2025. Since it’s my first real tour - all be it not yet a very long one - I believe I shouldn’t put my capabilities to the test too much. 4-5 days for the 350 km loop brings me somewhere around 70-90 km each day. For a first tour, carrying all my gear and food, this should be plenty to test what’s possible. It will also give me the chance to enjoy the places I visit.