Voorsterbos

The Voorsterbos, which this cycling route encircles, was planted in 1944 and is one of the oldest forests in Overijssel. This part of the polder is too wet for agriculture because the soil consists mainly of sand and boulder clay. The trees and vegetation are diverse and have attracted some sixty different bird species. You'll encounter rare specimens such as the lesser spotted woodpecker, the beautifully singing nightingale, and the cheerfully whistling golden oriole here, but birds of prey like the honey buzzard and the sparrowhawk also feel right at home in the Voorsterbos. Deer hide among the trees, but pine martens and small amphibians also thrive on the riches offered by the forests, soil, and water nearby. As dusk falls, bats also become active. You can park your car at the Zwarte Water Recreation Centre Foundation in Zwartsluis; this is the start and end point of the cycling route. There's plenty to do in the area surrounding the recreation centre, including water sports. There's a lot of activity going on. The reclamation of the province has created impressive sights: several shipwrecks have been uncovered. Further along the route, you'll encounter no fewer than three wrecked ships. After cycling past Vollenhove through the Bentpolder and leaving the Voorsterbos forest behind, you'll see De Foeke. This windmill is still quite young, built in 1968. This polder mill dominates the landscape—you can see it from afar—and can be viewed up close. Built to enhance the nearby visitors center, it's a feast for the eyes!