Etappe 11

Part 1: 

It may seem a little odd to split one of the shortest Pieterpad stages into two parts. At just 15 kilometres, Etappe 11 is usually an easy day on the trail. Sometimes, though, plans have to adapt to reality.

After the heat and hills of the previous stage, Mai was clearly feeling tired. The weather forecast also promised rain later in the day, so instead of pushing through the entire stage, we decided to take it easy and hike only the first section.

Our now familiar bike-and-car strategy came into play once again. We left the bike at the Buitencentrum Sallandse Heuvelrug, the last real parking option before Holten, and then drove back to Hellendoorn. Public transport to Hellendoorn had already proven challenging, especially on a Sunday, so this remained the simplest solution.

We started from the parking area near the church in Hellendoorn and set off on what turned out to be a very relaxed about a five-kilometre walk. The route gently leaves the town behind before continuing through peaceful woodland. 

Around lunchtime we reached Eetcafé De Wieger, which turned out to be an excellent place for a break. It was busy but cosy, with friendly service and good food. 

While I waited for our food to arrive, Boris went off to retrieve the car from Hellendoorn (only about 10minute biking). 

Sometimes the best hiking days aren't about covering the most kilometres. They're about listening to your body - and your dog- and be ready to adjust the plan. For us, this was a little kilometers day, but a good day. 

Part 2 to follow.