Hedel, Hurwenen and Zaltbommel

A fortified city of more than a thousand years old, located on the Waal and named after the influence of salt water on the land. Zaltbommel means "salty orchard" and was originally called Bommel. The city is still called that by its own residents. The first mention of Zaltbommel goes back to the year 850. In the course of the thirteenth century, "Bomela", as Zaltbommel was called in the past, grew into an important trading city. In the fifteenth century the city joined the Hanseatic League. The route has some nice sights, such as the Vento Vivimus mill. This belt mill was built in 1875 in the small village of Hurwenen. A hundred years later the mill was restored, because the building had suffered extensive damage during the Second World War. Initially this restoration was small-scale, but in 1988 more investments were made. Three years later the mill was operational again. From April 1 to October 1, the mill can be visited on Saturday afternoons and by appointment. Loosely translated, Vento Vivimus means 'we live from the wind', referring to the fact that the mill is powered by wind power. You have cycled almost sixteen kilometers, when you can stop at De Roskam for a break. With a fantastic view of the Waal, it is wonderful to sit on the terrace. Take a break with a tasty lunch, a hearty bite and a refreshing drink while you charge your electric bike. Eetcafé De Roskam welcomes you hospitably and is ready to serve you every need. Finally, in Zaltbommel you will pass the Oude Watertoren. The tower was built in 1905 according to a design by Jan Schotel. The 21 meter tower is equipped with a 50 cubic meter water reservoir and a six meter deep clean water cellar. The tower was decommissioned in 1960, but still forms an impressive sight on the Stadsdijk.