Roelofarendsveen, Ter Aar, Alphen aan den Rijn

The Green Heart is not called that for nothing. Thanks to the abundance of water, this area is particularly fertile. It is therefore no surprise that Dutch cows graze here to their heart's content.

During this cycle route, you will discover for yourself how water-rich the area is. You will cycle along the Braassemermeer and even across the Langeraarse Plassen. The Braassemermeer is known for its many water sports activities. The large lake is ideal for sailing, canoeing and other forms of water recreation.

The Langeraarse Plassen were created in the 16th century by peat extraction. Because the area was not drained after the peat extraction – partly due to the good water connection with Amsterdam – the lakes remained. The combination of water and nature ensures a wide variety of plants and animals here.

Please note: between junctions 32 and 33, you will need to cross the Paddegat by ferry. This ferry service runs on weekdays until 6 p.m. and on weekends until 5 p.m. For current sailing times, please visit: https://www.vanleersum.com/veerdienst-paddegat/

If the ferry is not running, you can take a detour via Rijnsaterwoude: from junction 33, go to junction 34 and then to junction 19. From there, you can continue the route. If you are coming from the other direction, turn off at junction 19 towards 34 and then towards 33.