Bourtange, Vlagtwedde, Wedde

Dive into ancient Groningen with this cycle route! You will feel at one with the beautiful ancient nature and the stopping points will bring the history of this part of Groningen back to life.

To start: the House at Wedde, which was built in 1360 and played an important role in the country's history. The beautiful fortified town of Bourtange, on the other hand, meant a lot to the city of Groningen during the period when the Spaniards held sway. Bourtange is still shaped like a star. Here you will enjoy the historic houses and historic windmills.

Nature lovers feast on the harmonious viewing garden of Arboretum Westeresch. To crown it all, you pass two primeval forests, part of the beautiful area around the valley of the Ruiten Aa. This area is managed by Natuurmonumenten. The ancient trees in the Metbroekbos are left alone as much as possible. By leaving dead trees, the forest attracts woodpeckers, cave pigeons and numerous insects, which in turn attract other animal species. This makes the nature around the Ruiten Aa one of the most varied areas in the Netherlands!

The Liefstinghsbroek is Groningen's oldest forest. Unique plant and animal species can also be found in this primeval forest, such as the rare wood anemone. You can also see large blue grasslands. It is a vulnerable nature reserve, but perhaps that is why it is so exceptionally beautiful. Wondering what makes the forest so special? Then it is highly recommended to book an excursion at Natuurmonumenten.

Don't be afraid to follow your primal instinct and find your inner primal self!