The squires route via the beautiful Woudbloem

The Woudbloem region in Groningen was still rugged and inaccessible at the end of the 19th century. It was an area with a lot of water, with winding rivers such as the Scharmer AE and the Slochter AE. Many trees grew, but the region also had extensive meadows and heathlands. Fish, birds and game were plentiful, as the area was virtually untouched by humans at that time. After 1900 the area was further developed and in 1904 a potato flour factory called'Woudbloem\\\' was built, employing hundreds of people. As a result, the population and the construction of houses increased. The factory ceased to exist in 1968, but the region continued to be known by the name of the factory. Anyone who visits Woudbloem now sees the remaining, rugged areas of nature, but also enjoys the vastness of the heathland landscape. You can park your car in the parking lot. There today you get on your bike to explore the quiet Woudbloem. The first sight on the route you will see in Slochteren: Fraeylemaborg. The beautiful country retreat, which was built more than 700 years ago, is located on an estate covering more than 23 hectares. The stone house and the estate have been well preserved. The deposit has been repurposed; a restaurant is located in the former treasure house; The coach house contains a museum shop and exhibition spaces. The building, which includes a park designed in Baroque style, is now also rented out as a location for parties and events. You continue cycling through Slochteren until you encounter the Fraeylemamolen on your way. This was built in 1786 to drain the Groote Oosterpolder. The mill was also known regionally as the Meestersmeulen and Lutje Molen. In 1969 a heavy storm destroyed the mill, so it had to be completely restored. That happened in 1974. Now the ground sailor with octagonal top sailor only grinds on a voluntary basis. A water-rich area unfolds as you cycle further through Woudbloem. The villages of Hoogezand and Sappemeer are located in the south of the region. Landhuis Welgelegen was built in 1655 in Sappemeer as a country estate. The impressive house had a turret in the middle and two stepped gables. The house was surrounded by a moat and had a large ornamental garden. Although the statue is no longer completely intact, the building still has a stately appearance.