Berkel en Rodenrijs, Moerkapelle and Zoetermeer

Explore the edge of Zoetermeer and the polder, with its many ditches and creeks that separate the meadows. Nature here is completely made by human hands and that is exactly what makes cycling through this area so special. Tightly landscaped, perpendicular watercourses give the area an impeccable appearance and the two forests through which you cycle on this route also have a modern, young atmosphere. A lot of space has been left for recreational opportunities in the Leidschendammerhout and De Balij, a varied, young forest. The oldest part of De Balij was built in 1992 for the Floriade and has since been expanded with marshland and more beech, oak and willow trees with beautiful ferns, elderberry and stinzen plants at their feet, which offer beautiful vistas of the polder. One moment you are still standing under the canopy of De Balij, while the next moment you are amazed at the openness of the landscape. This variation attracts different animals. For example, the bluethroat and reed warbler sing to you from the reeds in spring and summer, while the bittern brings out its song at dusk and is accompanied by the drumming of the great spotted and green woodpecker. You will also not be surprised to see many different water birds throughout the seasons. Birds of prey (the hawk, the buzzard and the sparrowhawk) also scrape together among the smaller mammals in the forest, such as wood mice and voles, while foxes and ermines also lurk for other prey, such as rabbits, moles or hedgehogs. The start and end point of the route is at Profile Edwin de Lange. If you want to be well prepared on the road, bring your bike in here for a service. If you prefer to cycle the route first, and then have your bike checked properly, that is of course also possible. On presentation of the bicycle discount pass, you will receive a 10.00 euro discount on maintenance or repair of your steel horse.