Stork route

This cycle route starts from TOP Oortjespad, where you can park your car (free).

De Venen is located in the Green Heart and covers the northwestern part of the province of Utrecht. This peat meadow area has a typical Dutch character with characteristic, elongated plots. These were created in the 12th century by draining swamps. The Fens is also a wetland area because peat has been excavated in various places. The special landscape offers beautiful panoramas with remains of a rich history, such as forts, mills, old ribbon villages, farms with orchards and

country estates.
For an overview of all TOP\\\'s, click here.
Oortjespad is named after the road of the same name, which used to be an old toll path (an eartje is an old Dutch coin, worth 1/4 stuiver). Until the 19th century, this road was also a church path, which led to the Roman Catholic secret church in Teckop. A work of art in the Duck fishing lake still refers to this. In addition to a petting zoo with a lookout tower and sunbathing and playing fields, there is a visitor center. There is also a Pitch & Putt Golf Course and catering establishments with terraces on the water.

A few tips
Nieuwkoopse Plassen
This special nature reserve is a true oasis of peace and space for plants, animals and people. There is much to see and experience on and around the water, such as flowery meadows and extensive reed fields. Moreover, the Nieuwkoopse Plassen are known for the many birds, including the purple heron.

Visitor center Oortjespad
Information about the area'De Venen\\\' can be found in the Oortjespad Visitor Center, directly at the TOP. There is a lot for children to experience and discover. The permanent exhibition answers questions such as which animals live in the ditch and which meadow birds you hear. There is a petting zoo next to the visitor center.

City Museum Woerden
In the former town hall of Woerden you will find Woerden City Museum. It is a small-scale and attractive museum with an interesting collection. Here you will find landscapes from the Green Heart of the Hague School and works by important Woerden artists. Address: Kerkplein6, Woerden. Opening hours: Wed and Sat 10am-5pm, Tues, Thurs, Fri and Sun 1pm-5pm.