Cycling through the swampy Mieden

Buitenpost is located in the north of Achtkarspelen and suffered a lot in the past from the battle between the Frisians and the Groningers. In the nineteenth century, Buitenpost became increasingly prosperous due to its favorable location between Groningen and Leeuwarden and so the town became the stopping place for postal vehicles. After 1866, Buitenpost slowly lost this function due to the construction of the railway line between Groningen and Leeuwarden. Post wagons were used less and less due to this fast connection. The starting point of the route is the De Kruidhof Botanical Garden. This beautiful garden, full of butterflies and birds, is a place with breathtaking views. Visitors can stroll around in this oasis of peace. Then you pass Bootsma\\\'s Poel. This pool is the largest pingo ruin in the Mieden area and is accessible via the Laarzenpad from the Wedze. It is a historical remnant from the Ice Age, formed by freezing seepage water. After about a kilometer you will pass a beautiful viewing hill where you can view a beautiful landscape. From this hill you have a fairytale view over the marshes of the Mieden. Then you will see a puddle-marsh area on the left, this beautiful piece of nature has been specially created for meadow birds. Snipes and godwits feel very much at home here and with a bit of luck you may see a ruff. A little later you pass the wet boot path'Mem Wedman\\\'. This path is definitely recommended for nature lovers, because it leads straight through the beautiful wet Mieden. Special plant species grow in the shallow water, such as the large buttercup and the hollow pipe. These plants are so special in the Netherlands because they can only grow in places where seepage occurs. You then cycle straight through the nature reserve'De Twijslermieden\\\', where, in addition to marsh plants and meadow birds, you can also see rare dragonflies. There is a large lake with a bird watching screen to spot birds up close. The diversity is great, because the nearby grasslands and the swampy area attract the lapwing, black-tailed godwit and wild duck, among others.