Austerlitz, Soest, Amersfoort

The Soester dunes were created in a unique way. To understand their history, we have to go back to the Saalian period. During this penultimate ice age, a moraine formed at the site of the dunes due to shifting land ice. In the subsequent warmer period, the Eemian, the Netherlands was almost entirely covered with deciduous trees.

When a new ice age arrived, the sea level dropped sharply. The ground froze completely, giving the wind free rein. Thick layers of sand, driven by the westerly wind, were deposited in this area. This is how the Soester dunes came into being. As the climate became warmer and wetter, birch, Scots pine and deciduous forests also appeared.

There is plenty to do in the area around the Soesterd dunes. Add extra stops to your route to discover the surroundings. You can start your cycle route at the Beauforthuis and explore the beautiful nature and sights from there.