Around the Maarseveense and Loosdrechtse Plas

The Maarsseveense Plassen, consisting of the Grote Plas and the Kleine Plas, form a recreational area near Utrecht. The lakes were created by sand extraction that was necessary for the construction of the Overvecht district in Utrecht in the 1960s. Many water sports are practiced in the area. The water of the Grote Plas is ideal for diving activities, because it is very clean. There are two paid beaches, but a large part of the lake is also freely accessible. You can enjoy sunbathing on the sunbathing lawns, but also visit the nudist beaches or take a trip on an asphalted path. Birds such as the reed warbler, the fut and the glossy head whistle their song in the many trees in this area. The Loosdrechtse Plassen form a large nature reserve where water and water sports predominate. The ponds form the central part of a protection zone for birds, other animals and plants. The water-rich area was created from peat, as a result of which water gained more and more ground. The lakes consist of different waters that are separated from each other by dikes and islands. By definition, the Eerste to Vijfde Plas together form the Loosdrechtse Plassen, whether the area also consists of other waters is up for debate, because the boundary of the area is not clearly demarcated. The route takes you past historic country houses and through picturesque landscapes.