The nature between Zeist and Leusden

This cycle route runs across the Leusderheide and right through the Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park. Rolling heathlands, open sandy plains and deciduous and coniferous forests alternate in a landscape that has been inhabited by prehistoric man since ancient times. Camps, ban barriers, death roads, urn fields and burial mounds are common in this area. The Leusderheide lies in the heart of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug. The Leusderheide has two ecoducts: the Leusderheide ecoduct, which runs over the A28 in the northwest, and the Treekerwissel ecoduct, which runs over the N227 in the southeast. These ecoducts were built to allow animals to move between the Leusderheide and the surrounding forests. Badgers, lizards and foxes, among others, frequently use the crossings. The Leusderheide has retained a large part of its original appearance because it is also used as a military training ground. On and around the Utrechtse Heuvelrug you will find many estates, which offer beautiful views of the prosperity of the rich in times gone by. You will see one of these beautiful country estates during the bike tour. Huize Den Treek used to be a farm that was already mentioned in 1337. In 1807, Ten Treek was converted into a real country estate by the new owner. On this estate there is a coach house with a service house, a gardener's house, the farm 'De Ossenstal' and a picturesque hunting lodge from the year 1838. These buildings have all been expanded, renovated or restored at some point in time, with the exception of the gardener's house.