Bergen op Zoom and the Markiezaatsmeer

The first wall of the fortified city of Bergen op Zoom was completed in 1335. This round shape can still be found in the street plan. The city gate Lievevrouwepoort has also been preserved. Bergen op Zoom, an important trading city, developed into a garrison town after 1600. You cycle around the Markiezaatsmeer. This part of the Oosterschelde was closed off from the sea in 1984 by a dam, the Markiezaatskade. Via Ossendrecht you start the second half of your route. You briefly cross the national borders for a short visit to our southern neighbours and then come through the eastern edge of the Wouwse Plantage. Then you cycle past the gardens of the Lievensberg estate, which further consists of sand drifts and pine forests.