Gravel by the Sea

Gravel by the Sea begins and ends at Molenwaterpark in Middelburg, located in the Dutch province of Zeeland. This gravel cycling tour is designed around Walcheren and Noord Beveland, offering route choices for those seeking a shorter or longer ride. While published distances differ, they generally range from approximately 55 or 65 km to 145 km. The event takes place in September and is in its early years, having been held only a few times. The concept is straightforward: to demonstrate to participants that Zeeland offers more gravel terrain than anticipated. The routes traverse the islands and coastal areas surrounding Middelburg, focusing on local gravel roads across Walcheren and Noord Beveland instead of mountainous or forested landscapes. One reported edition saw around 300 participants, and with robust late registrations, organizers procured an additional hundred bolussen, a local sweet pastry. The event extends beyond the primary cycling routes, featuring a cycling party for young children in the park and providing food from Frituur 't Smulhoek for arriving riders.