This loop takes you past the loveliest spots between the Lek and Linge rivers. Discover delightful historic cities with a character all their own, and soak up the lush, green tranquillity of the Zouweboezem nature area. Along the way, you'll see ancient farmsteads and charming spots to take a break.
This route follows the cycle network junctions, identified by the white-and-green signs with two-digit numbers. Follow the numbers: 57 - 59 - 60 - 61 – 62 – 20 – 21 – 05 – 06 – 02 – 10 - 11 – 12 – 13 – 40 – 52 – 44 – 45 – 46 – 48 – 57.
Route starting point
This route sets out from cycle junction 57 in Leerdam, passes through Meerkerk, Sluis, Lexmond, Vianen and Everdingen, and finally finishes back in Leerdam. You can also pick up the route from any of the other cycle junctions along the way.
Historic Ameide
At junction 20, take a short detour towards junction 64 to visit picturesque Ameide! Likely one of the oldest cities in the county of Holland, Ameide's long history makes it a treasure trove of historic buildings, including an old town hall.
Near junction 20: Rest and recharge in the Zouweboezem
In the Zouweboezem between junction 62 and 20 you'll find an oasis of peace and calm with wonderful flora and fauna. A natural gem still undiscovered by most tourists, the Zouweboezem's marshland is a haven and nesting ground for a wide array of birds, including the purple heron.
History comes alive in Vrijstad Vianen!
Boasting more than 190 national listed buildings, Vianen is a beautiful city whose history is visible everywhere you look. The old city centre of Vianen is still home to many of the medieval fortifications, such as the city moat, city walls and gate known as the Lekpoort. Having cycled up an appetite, grab a terrace table on the bustling Voorstraat to recharge before continuing your journey!
Grab an ice-cold beer at Fort Everdingen on weekends
Dating from 1847, this tower fort is part of the New Dutch Water Line, built to keep enemy armies from crossing the Lek river and dyke and breaching the defence line. These days, the fort is home to a beer brewery.
Wiel van Bassa
Cycling along the Diefdijk, you'll pass the largest wiel in the Netherlands, a type of lake formed by a dyke failure. This one formed in the 16th century following a breach of the Diefdijk, and now covers an area of 13 hectares.
Leerdam: Glass city of the Netherlands
The opening of a glassworks in the 18th century marked the birth of a large-scale glass industry in Leerdam. Today, you can still watch glassblowers practise their craft at Royal Leerdam Crystal and in the National Glass Museum's workshop. Leerdam also has various other museums worth visiting and offers beautiful boat cruises on the Linge. After your bike ride, there's no better spot to quench your thirst than on a riverside terrace!
De Ponthoeve pancake restaurant
(near route)
Enjoy the best pancakes served up with a view of the Lek.
Stedelijk Museum
(on route)
Take a break to visit the Stedelijk Museum and catch the latest exhibition.
De Bakplaats bakery
Grab a delectable creation by a Dutch TV Bake-Off finalist!
Lekker Simpel tea garden
Take a teatime-out along the Lek.
Middelbroeck ice cream shop
Stop along the way for delicious, farm-fresh ice cream.
De Beren restaurant
Rest and recharge on De Beren's Linge-side terrace.
National Glass Museum & Glassworks
Learn all about glass and watch the glassblowers at work.
Fort Everdingen
Grab an ice-cold beer at Fort Everdingen!
