Cycling in the Achterhoek between Varsseveld and Ulft

There is a lot of natural beauty to be found in the Achterhoek landscape. Due to the plants and buildings, the semi-open landscape resembles the sides of a stage: a bocage landscape. Landscape elements occasionally disappear behind hedgerows and hedgerows, only to reappear when you have passed them. Furthermore, the Achterhoek is rich in castles and country houses, which symbolize the prosperity of the region. One beautiful example of the Achterhoek's wealth is Wisch Castle in Terborg, whose history goes back eight centuries. The old castle was demolished in 1531 and in 1644 the current white building was rebuilt on the eastern bank of the IJssel. The construction of the complex is very unusual. The main building dates from the 16th and 17th centuries and is dated 1648, but the foundations of the round tower are a century older. The white color was only applied in the nineteenth century. The two monumental lime trees on the forecourt of the estate are beautiful and the black walnut tree is more than two centuries old! With a circumference of almost 5 meters, it is the thickest walnut tree in the Netherlands. Hotel Café Restaurant De Ploeg in Varsseveld is the base for this cycling tour. By staying in the small-scale hotel you can also enjoy route 142591. It is wonderful to freshen up in the spacious (bath)room after your bike ride before looking at the menu in the restaurant. A glass of wine or beer goes well with one of the delicious seasonal dishes. You can enjoy a drink on the heated terrace all evening before retiring to one of the nine beautiful hotel rooms.