Dwarsgracht and Muggenbeet, De Wieden

The Wieden and the Weerribben together form one of the most important wetland areas in Europe. This polder area has been extensively excavated in history due to peat extraction. This has created extensive reed fields and flowery hay fields. Water, lots of water, in the form of gorges, lakes, ponds, canals and fens stimulates the growth of special plants. The swamps are densely vegetated and here you will encounter, among other things, pine clubmoss, swamp clubmoss, blond sedge and slender cotton grass. Fish eaters such as the cormorant, the curlew, the black tern and the purple heron get their food from the waters of De Wieden, but other birds of prey also hunt here. The marsh harrier and rare short-eared owl make their prey on the quaking bogs, blue grasslands and bogs. The cycle route starts in the tourist town of Blokzijl at the Tourist Transfer Point. Blokzijl is centuries old; It was already mentioned in the 15th century and the town was given an important defensive role against the Spanish troops during the Eighty Years' War in 1581. The name Blokzijl, which means 'fortified lock', was created at that time. In the 17th century, Blokzijl was given more rights, such as the appointment of an independent mayor, and in 1672 Blokzijl even obtained city rights. Blokzijl has always been a busy town due to its favorable location. Peat from the area ensured a flourishing trade, but the waters also worked to Blokzijl's advantage. Enjoy the peace and nature that the polder has to offer and be amazed by the diversity of flora and fauna in De Wieden!