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In the polder near Bussum and Hilversum it is wonderful to cycle around the Naardermeer. The lake is nationally and internationally protected and the water ensures the growth of the swamp forest and swampy meadows, where shallow pools are scattered here and there. The oasis of peace attracts many birds. The route starts at the Schaep en Burgh Visitor Center, a vast estate with impressive beech and oak avenues. The beautifully landscaped park also has a pond with an island in it and an orangery and a coach house have been added to the house as outbuildings. The visitor center is therefore an attraction in itself, apart from the wealth of information it houses. The route takes you past eight historic country estates, of which Sperwershof is the first. In the old vegetable garden of this beautiful estate you will find a flower shop and a health food shop, while special flowers and vegetables are grown in the market garden and sold in the shops. The shops are open from Wednesday to Saturday. A country estate of the same name is also hidden next to the Spanderswoud forest. Country estate Westerveld houses a beautiful white villa from 1866, with accompanying carriage house, stables and domes. This country estate quickly became a status symbol because of its beautiful, spacious, well-organized garden with pond and the many statues and terraces. Although they do not exceed the opulence and wealth of Westerveld, Hilverbeek, Schoonoord, Trompenburg and Gooilust are all beautiful to see. Fort Uitermeer is located on the Vecht River and between forests and meadows. The fortress is part of the New Dutch Waterline. The tower fort is an important eye-catcher in the area and also offers beautiful views over the Naardermeer and the many country estates in the area.