A mini-weekend to Holland! With the full sunshine, I nearly dropped all my other plans, and went biking my full stay here. Nevertheless, I stuck to my original intentions; I must tend to other needs in my life than just biking. Really. Yes. Hmmmm …
On my way back to the hotel, in the late afternoon yesterday, it was with reserved enthusiasm that I entered the Elsenburgerbos on foot. This was because when I briefly popped in here for a first reconnaissance in March 2010, I did not succeed in spotting any trail signs. Would I be luckier this time?
Well, I could hardly believe my luck when I walked into the parking lot: a large group of mountain bikers were getting ready for a ride! A notch better timing would have been me having had MY bike with me, to be able to join them!
I introduced myself, and asked about the local loop. Sadly, I was told the trail signs have not been maintained; they are long gone.
This is such a shame. From the little I’ve seen of this parc, there are plenty of nice singletrack sections. I am sure I would enjoy riding here.
I retreated to the hotel and an evening set aside for planning: where do I ride Sunday?
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Tags:Elsenburgerbos·Rijswijk
On my way home from having ridden the awesome Oostvoorne trail, I popped into Roosendaal, for a try-out of the trail there.
The www.mtbroutes.nl site had indicated that this was a beginner loop, and so it was. With very little tarmac riding, and only a few road crossings, I might consider this when riding with kids.
The only hesitation would be that some of the stretches are pretty long and uneventful. For a less strong rider they may feel … endless.
Read more on my Holland page.
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Tags:netherlands·roosendaal
After having tried out a Holland trail (Spaarnwoude) the first time in September last year, and then having felt zapped backed to man-made trails in the US, I have to admit I had high expectations when I decided to try out the permanent trail in Oostvoorne.
My expectations were thoroughly met.
Only 12 km long, this trail is technical enough to feel longer for the uninitiated. I met singletrack in abundance; up and down, up and down, winding, never super steep, never super technical … but very enjoyable!
A trail I will gladly ride again!
Read more on my Holland page.
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Tags:netherlands·oostvoorne
