Mills and Lakes Route

The surroundings of Roelofarendsveen, which is part of the municipality of Kaag en Braassem, are characterized by many windmills, peat meadows and water.
Kaag en Braassem offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature, landscape and water. The area has an important water sports function thanks to the Kagerplassen and the Braassemermeer. Due to the characteristic allotment pattern, the striking windmills and the virtual lack of buildings, the landscape is beautiful. The various ferries give the area a special recreational appeal.
The route also takes you through the center of Leiden.

A few tips

Windmills in Kaag and Braassem
Kaag en Braassem has 20 windmills, making it the second most windmill municipality in the Netherlands. The mills can be admired from the water by following the Alkemade sloop route (available at the VVV agency Kaag en Braassem).

Historic lock Roelofarendsveen
Northwest of the Braassemermeer is a lock that gives access to the wet polder of Roelofarendsveen and vice versa. The sluice dates back to 1632. In the past, barges transported vegetables and peat from the polder to the cities. Given the deviating water levels between the polder and the Braassemermeer, it was necessary to construct a lock.

Braassemermeer
The Braassemermeer originated in the time of the peat cutters, between the sixteenth century and 1850. The 425-hectare pond has grown due to peat and weather influences. The green-blue lake is best known for its water sports activities. Along the lake you will find marinas, boat rentals, cafes and restaurants.
Summer bicycle ferry't Heen en Weertje to Kaageiland (deviate from the route from junction 39).

The meadows, picturesque houses, vistas full of windmills and the nautical character of Kaageiland are well worth a visit. From the Boekhorsterweg in Oud Ade, a bicycle ferry sails to the island. You can reach the bicycle ferry via bicycle junctions 39-8. Ferry times: June to August, weekends from May to September.

For more information about this TOP