Ammerzoden, Aalst and Andel

The living drifting sands of De Loonse and Drunense Duinen National Park are unique in Europe on this scale. The varied nature reserve covers more than 3,500 hectares and the dry, coniferous grounds form a nice contrast with the streams and swamps south of the dunes. Estates with characteristic farms adorn the area and the area is surrounded by larger and smaller towns and villages. Smaller, but perhaps just as impressive, is the Hooibroeken area south of Heusden. This natural gem consists of forest and meadows. It is a vulnerable area because the area is too dry. In the past, the area was regularly flooded by the Meuse and you can see various remains of dike breaches, but the groundwater levels have now dropped and less seepage water is supplied. To preserve the moist, lean land, flower-rich grassland, marsh marigold hayland and alder forest, we are working hard to raise the water level again. The duck decoy in Hooibroeken is also nice; this one is already 400 years old! For a wonderful cycling weekend, book an overnight stay at In Den Verdwaalde Koogel, where this cycling tour starts. The hotel has twelve nice rooms and you can enjoy a romantic dinner in the restaurant after your bike ride. You can have a nice drink on the terrace and when you get tired, you can snuggle between the clean sheets. Fanatics can then explore route 133135 the next day, rested, which leads past various historical places in the area.