By Beata Bruggeman-Sekowska
The National Polish Cycling Route takes riders through the Netherlands on a journey commemorating the Polish forces that played a critical role in liberating the country during World War II. Beginning in Zeeland’s Zeeuws-Vlaanderen, where Allied forces first entered the Netherlands on September 16, 1944, this historical route highlights the courage and dedication of the Polish soldiers who fought across Dutch landscapes.
Riders start at the Gdynia Museum, which showcases artifacts from the liberation. From here, cyclists follow the path of the Polish liberators northward, crossing into Belgium before continuing into Breda, North Brabant. Here, the Maczek Memorial honors General Stanislaw Maczek, who commanded the 1st Polish Armored Division in liberating Breda with minimal civilian casualties. Along the route, riders will see a German Panther tank gifted by the Polish liberators, symbolizing the enduring bond between Polish soldiers and the people of Breda.
The route proceeds through Driel-Oosterbeek, passing key sites where the 1st Polish Independent Parachute Brigade landed, under General Stanislaw Sosabowski’s command. After a period fighting in Germany, the Polish forces re-entered the Netherlands to liberate northern areas, now commemorated by additional routes in Drenthe and Groningen. These routes include memorials to Polish pilots whose planes were downed over the Netherlands, offering a powerful tribute to the sacrifices made.
The Polish Cycling Route provides an inspiring way to experience Dutch landscapes, historical landmarks, and the resilience of those who helped secure the Netherlands’ freedom.
Photo: General Maczek Memorial in Breda ©communications-unlimited.nl
