Marne Route at Lauwersmeer National Park

The Dutch have been battling the rising tide for centuries. Dikes, gullies, canals, denominations and lakes are no exception in the flat Dutch landscape. One of those lakes was created in May 1969 when the Lauwerszee was closed: the Lauwersmeer, which is located on the border of Groningen and Friesland. Lauwersmeer National Park is a vast landscape, home to many different, sometimes rare animals and plants. Many birds come to rest on and around the water, from geese, ducks and bearded ducks to meadow birds that build their nests further inland. Because nature often goes its own way in Lauwersmeer National Park, trees and shrubs roughen the landscape. The area gradually becomes dense and a swamp-like forest is created. The growth of this forest is at the expense of various animal species, so the area is mowed and felled annually. It may happen that you suddenly come face to face with Scottish highlanders or Konik horses, they graze freely in the landscape. The tour leads inland from the parking lot. Just over half of the route, the De Onderneming mill stands along the road. This octagonal mill from 1858 has a beautiful view of the Lauwersmeer and was used for grinding grain. By the mid-20th century, the mill had fallen into such disrepair that a demolition permit was issued. Ultimately, the then owner did nothing with it, but instead restored it. In the years that followed, De Onderneming served as a training mill for millers in training. The flour mill is now not ready for grinding and is no longer running, but it can be visited on Sunday afternoons and by appointment. When you cycle through Groningen, in addition to charming villages, you will also see impressive, centuries-old churches, such as the Dutch Reformed Church in Vierhuizen, which can be visited near the De Onderneming. It was built in the Romanesque, late Romanesque and Gothic style. Many churches, including this one, are open to the public: the key can be picked up from one of the neighbors.