Short But Sweet

Netherlands (Friesland): Stage 11 Groningen to Assen 30 Km (Sun 23 July 2023)

Weather: 14⁰C min – 20⁰C max, cold and wet

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“You’ve got to be very careful if you don’t know where you are going, because you might not get there” ~ Yogi Berra

Knowing that there is 100% chance of rain enables you to properly prepare. First, it is wise to dress for the conditions, so I wore my weatherproof leggings, thermal under-vest, and bright orange, waterproof, Madison rain jacket. Who cares about rain now that I am warm and dry!

Don’t neglect the bike either … a final squirt of wet lube to protect the chain from the weather. Then there is the route to consider … I recreated my route (using cycle.travel of course) to make sure there are no unpaved sections to mess up my bike.

What made the ride today surprisingly enjoyable was the superb cycle paths, particularly the Kanaaldyke path running alongside the Noord Willemskanaal. King Willem III approved in 1854 that his name be attached to the canal. The realization was taken up by the Noord-Willemskanaal Maatschappij, founded in 1856, which had obtained a concession for this purpose. The supply of the canal – the supply of sufficient water for shipping – necessitated the construction of four locks and two steam pumping stations. After the end of the concession, the canal company was liquidated and the exploitation of the canal was transferred to the State on 7 February 1958. He widened the canal in the period 1965 – 1975 and diverted it at Assen, so that it is now navigable for ships with a loading capacity of 300 tons.

For most of the way I followed the Doorfietsweg (F28) route. The road surface was flat, smooth and well maintained. Cyclists get priority which means you can just keep pedaling.

Scenery was quite pleasant particularly around the Paterswoldsemeer lake, which is a popular place for water sports. There were some photo opportunities too, with several grand houses and boats along the canal.

Assen is a city in the northeastern part of the Netherlands, located in the province of Drenthe. With a population of over 67,000 people, it is the capital of the province and is known for its rich cultural history beautiful natural surroundings, and vibrant community (not that this was very obvious on a sleepy Sunday). Surprisingly, there was a cafe open serving excellent coffee so I had a couple of cups while sheltering from the rain and waiting for my 3 pm check-in at the hotel.

“Expect the worst and hope for the best” is an old adage that sums up today’s ride. Looking at the forecast this morning I was filled with doom and gloom, but it ended up being another enjoyable ride. Although only 30 km the stiff headwind ensured that I got my share of exercise too!