Stork route

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

De Venen is located in the Groene Hart 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 marshes. De Venen is also a water-rich area because peat has been dug up 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 TOPs, click here.
Oortjespad is named after the road of the same name that used to be an old toll path (an oortje is an old Dutch coin, worth 1/4 stuiver). This road was also a church path until the 19th century, which led to the Roman Catholic clandestine church in Teckop. A work of art in the fishing lake Eend still refers to this. In addition to a petting zoo with a lookout tower and lawns for sunbathing and playing, there is a visitors' centre. There is also a Pitch&Putt Golf Course and catering facilities with terraces on the water.

Some tips
Lakes of Nieuwkoop
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 vast reed fields. In addition, the Nieuwkoopse Plassen are known for their many birds, including the purple heron.

Oortjespad Visitor Center
Information about the area'De Venen\\\' can be found in the Oortjespad Visitors' Centre, right by the TOP. There is much for children to experience and discover. The permanent exhibition answers questions such as which animals live in the ditch and which meadow birds you can hear. There is a petting zoo next to the visitors' centre.

City Museum Woerden
In the former town hall of Woerden you will find Stadsmuseum Woerden. It is a small and atmospheric museum with an interesting collection. Here you will find, among other things, landscapes from the Green Heart of the Hague School and works by important Woerden artists. Address: Kerkplein6, Woerden. Opening hours: Wed and Sat 10:00-17:00, Tue, Thu, Fri and Sun 13:00-17:00.