Country estates and forts along the Amstel

Your cycle route starts at Café Restaurant De Punt. You explore part of the 135 kilometer long defense line on the Amstel around the capital: the Defense Line of Amsterdam. In 1914, the Defense Line of Amsterdam, together with the New Dutch Waterline, prompted the Germans not to invade the Netherlands. The entire water line of 45 forts is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You also cycle through Botshol Nature Reserve. The excavation of peat has left clear water behind, so that you can see the beautiful aquatic plants such as stoneworts and large nymphs. Rare orchids also grow there. You will also discover Ouderkerk aan de Amstel and see the Oostermeer country estate, one of the few well-preserved country estates. The estate has been designated a national monument in its entirety.