Island of Schalwijk route

This route, starting from Houten, leads you through the Kromme Rijnstreek, which is part of the Rivierenland National Landscape. A beautiful vast area, mainly agricultural, with an alternation of meadows and fruit orchards. You cycle along the Lek, the floodplains, but also pass forts of the New Dutch Waterline. You return to the starting point via the characteristic green village of Werkhoven. Sights along the way Fort Honswijk In the area between the former Zuiderzee and the Biesbosch, a defense structure was built from the end of the 16th century: the New Dutch Waterline. By flooding large areas of land, the cities were protected against enemies. Soldiers were standing by in the later built forts along the line. You cycle past Fort Werk aan de Waalse Wetering and Fort Honswijk, with the associated Fort Lunet aan de Snel. Fort Honswijk was built in 1841 and was the first and largest of all forts. Many forts nowadays have a recreational and"green\\\" function. Both forts are not open to the public. Tea garden De Winkel On the Nachtdijk you will find tea garden De Winkel, open daily from April to October, also for lunches and high tea, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Samaya You will see the Samaya conference center on Hollendewagenweg. Conferences and workshops are now held in this former Augustinian convent. There are also possibilities for an individual multi-day stay. The chapel of Samaya is an official wedding location of the municipality of Bunnik. Chateau de Akker As early as 7000 years ago, the Mesopotamians already made drinks from grapes. Due to climate change, special grape varieties and improved techniques for cultivating grapes on cold soil, the border of wine-producing countries is moving further and further north. Although the supermarkets are not yet overflowing with Dutch wine, home-grown wine is becoming increasingly popular. This cycle route is offered to you by VVV Wijk bij Duurstede. For more information about this region, go to www.vvvwijkbijduurstede.nl