The route is a further development of the former LF16 (Vechtetal Route), which no longer met contemporary standards in terms of user experience, quality and international positioning.

Role of Centrϕide

Commissioned by LEADER Noord-Overijssel, Centrϕide played a central role in the redevelopment of the Dutch section of the Vechtdal Route. The commission involved renewing the route and making it future-proof, both in terms of content and organisation.

In doing so, Centrϕide:

• took the initiative to breathe new life into the outdated LF16 route

• developed the project’s content and translated it into a contemporary cycling experience

• worked closely with the Dutch and German route agencies and regional stakeholders

• connected Dutch and German partners and facilitated collaboration

• organised funding, including a grant via the LEADER scheme

• contributed to positioning the route as a cross-border recreational product

• developed, coordinated and rolled out the signage along the entire route, making the route physically visible and tangible

• Improved online presentation of the Vechte Valley Route on the website: https://www.vechtdaloverijssel.nl/vechtdalroute/

Collaboration and implementation

The revamped Vechtdal Route was created through close cooperation between local authorities, tourism organisations and regional partners in the Netherlands and Germany. This cooperation has resulted in a coherent, high-quality route that meets the needs of both recreational and international cyclists.

Art routes and management

A distinctive feature of the route is its link to the Art Routes project, which has seen around 60 works of art installed along the route. This combination of recreation and culture enhances the route’s appeal.

Centrϕide is responsible for the maintenance of these works of art within the Dutch section of the route, thereby contributing to the sustainable quality and appeal of the whole.

Result

The redevelopment of the Vechtdal Route has created a future-proof, cross-border cycle route that:

• strengthens regional cooperation between the Netherlands and Germany

• contributes to the recreational and tourist development of the Vecht Valley

• has a distinctive profile through the combination of landscape, culture and art

• connects to existing route networks and international cycling infrastructure

• features a clear and recognisable signage system that ensures ease of use and a high-quality route experience

The Vechtdal Route thus serves as a strong example of how regional cooperation, substantive development and targeted investments lead to a sustainable recreational product.