A hidden gem along the Elfstedentocht

Summary

While the Elfstedentocht cycling route showcases Friesland’s beautiful cities and landscapes, it also hides small, captivating stories. One of these is the sculpture De Reedrydster (Aukje) in Kolderwolde, inspired by a 1997 woman who, in her nightgown and slippers, helped guide skaters safely through the dark.

This ordinary yet brave gesture inspired artist Van Hemert and led to a series of eleven Aukje sculptures along the route. For cyclists, noticing these sculptures reveals Friesland’s hidden stories and brings a personal, human dimension to the journey.

Perfect for leisurely cyclists, culture lovers, and anyone who enjoys discovering quiet, meaningful places, the Aukje sculptures show how small acts can leave a lasting impact.

During an Elfstedentocht cycling holiday, the cities and landscapes are of course beautiful, but Friesland also hides small stories that you almost miss along the way. One of these is the sculpture De Reedrydster in Kolderwolde, better known as Elfstedentocht skater Aukje.

“The Aukjes show that small gestures can have a huge impact,” says Sytze. “In her nightgown and slippers, Aukje went onto the ice to guide the skaters. She helped them navigate safely through the darkness.”

Aukje in facts

• Name of the sculpture: De Reedrydster (Aukje)

• Artist: Van Hemert

• Year: 2002

• Location: Kolderwolde, along the Elfstedentocht route

• Part of: Famkes sculpture trail

• Background: Inspired by the 1997 Elfstedentocht, when locals helped the first skaters in the dark.

This sculpture was the starting point of a series of eleven Aukje sculptures spread along the entire route.

Why you shouldn’t miss Aukje
During the 1997 tour, Aukje, in her nightgown and slippers, went onto the ice to help skaters. This ordinary but courageous gesture inspired artist Van Hemert. By putting women like Aukje at the center, they gain a visible place in the story of the Elfstedentocht—something often missing from traditional accounts.

Cyclists who pay attention will see that the landscape is full of small stories about ordinary people. These little moments are what make the Elfstedentocht legendary.

Who this tip is for
This tip is perfect for:

• Cyclists who want to discover Friesland at their own pace

• Culture and history enthusiasts who want to look a little deeper

• Anyone who loves quiet, hidden places and stories

This tip is less relevant for those purely focused on covering the kilometers or only seeking crowds and the large starting moments of the skating tour.

Practical information: How to find Aukje
On the interactive map Fytse mei Sytze, you can find all the Aukje sculptures, making them easy to discover during your tour.
On a self-guided Elfstedentocht cycling holiday, it’s easy to plan a stop at Aukje.

The Elfstedentocht in perspective
The Elfstedentocht is often about cold, speed, and victory, but with the Aukje sculptures, you experience a different perspective: engagement, community, and small heroes. For cyclists along the route, this brings Friesland to life in a personal way.

The Elfstedentocht is special because of all the personal stories. Aukje’s small, brave gesture (going onto the ice in her nightgown and slippers) shows how big a small moment can be. Without her, the skaters would have had a much harder time, and as a cyclist, you feel that along the route, you are not just seeing cities and lakes, but a landscape full of stories, literally along the water.

Insider tips from Sytze
As the owner of Friesland Holland Travel, I guide guests along the Elfstedentocht by bike every year. I love sharing this tip about Aukje because it adds an authentic experience to your cycling holiday. This way, you discover Friesland in a way most visitors miss.

Plan your own Elfstedentocht cycling holiday and be surprised by the small stories: from Aukje to bridges, villages, and hidden views along the water.

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