Berkel and 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 precisely what makes cycling through this area so special. Tightly landscaped, perpendicular watercourses give the area an impeccable appearance and the two forests you cycle through 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 constructed in 1992 for the Floriade and has since been expanded with marshland and more beech, oak and willow trees with beautiful ferns, elder and stinzen plants at their base, which offer beautiful views of the polder. One moment you are standing under the canopy of De Balij, while the next moment you are amazed by the openness of the landscape. This variation attracts different animals. For example, the bluethroat and the reed warbler sing to you from the reeds in spring and summer, while the bittern performs its song around dusk and is accompanied by the drumming of the great spotted and green woodpecker. You won't be surprised to see many different water birds throughout the seasons. Birds of prey (the hawk, the buzzard and the sparrowhawk) also forage for their food among the smaller mammals in the forest, such as wood mice and field mice, while foxes and stoats 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, bring your bike in here for a service. If you prefer to cycle the route first and then have your bike thoroughly checked, that is of course also possible. In any case, upon presentation of the bicycle discount pass, you will receive a 10.00 euro discount on maintenance or repair of your steel horse.