Sliedrecht to Dordrecht via the Biesbosch

Dordrecht, also known as'Dordt\\\', is first mentioned in a text from the twelfth century. Then the city, which received city rights in 1220, was still called Thuredrech. Thuredrech developed into one of the six largest and most important trading cities in the Netherlands, but later this importance declined. When you cycle through the city, this rich past will undoubtedly still speak to you through the many old buildings. With almost 120,000 inhabitants, Dordrecht is the fourth largest city in the province of South Holland. Three rivers meander around the city that converge just outside the city limits: the Beneden-Merwede, the Noord and the Oude Maas. There is a lot of traffic on the water; it is the busiest water hub in Europe, due to the location of Rotterdam. Water also plays a major role in the area, in De Biesbosch National Park. The area is a source of inspiration for anyone who takes the trouble to reflect on cultural history and natural beauty. Inhabitants of the region even wrote several poems about the history of the water and wooded area. The verses, which deal with various subjects, can be read for the public at various places in the Biesbosch. The Biesbosch has a wealth of special, colorful plants and beautiful animals. Many birds enjoy the wealth that the ponds, creeks and fens have to offer and settle in the surrounding forests. A pair of white-tailed eagles nest in the area, but herons also fish in the Biesbosch. Ducks, grebes and coots swim on the water, while harriers and buzzards hunt for succulent voles in the polders. Otters take a refreshing dip in the water, while beavers are hard at work building their nests and dams. The river islands, sand and mud flats of the Biesbosch are colored by the yellow swamp herb, the white valerian and the purple loosestrife. Giant balsam gives off a soft sweet scent and in the polders farmers make hay on their land. In the fairytale-like surroundings you can continue to be amazed by the best that the Netherlands has to offer. During your trip you can also take a look at the Mercury Observatory. The observatory is located in the Biesbosch, but through a stargazer you really realize that nature extends beyond the tops of the trees. As you gain more knowledge about the universe, you realize how small humans really are. When you return to the parking lot of Restaurant Bellevue, where you parked your car for free, you can end the day in the cozy restaurant. Enjoy a romantic dinner with a glass of full red or nice fresh white wine and talk about the day with a magnificent view over the Merwede. This is the ideal restaurant for cycling enthusiasts, because with the bicycle discount pass you get a 10% discount on your bill.