Waterline Route

The cycle route starts at TOP Vianen-Ponthoeve and passes a number of forts and fortifications of the New Dutch Waterline.

Vianen was a Free City in the Middle Ages; a place with its own rules and a refuge for 'foreigners with money'. Along the way you will be surprised by the old villages of Hagestein and Zijderveld. Highlights on the route are the castle location of the former house Hagestein, Fort Everdingen, the historical ribbons with authentic farms and the Weir Island Hagestein (Ossenwaard) with the lock and weir complex.

Tip 1: Pancake farm De Ponthoeve
From the restaurant of pancake farm De Ponthoeve you have a beautiful view over the river and the floodplains. You can also take a look at the viewing stable with cows on the farm.
Address: Buitenstad 69, Vianen Telephone: 0347 - 37 16 27 Internet: www.ponthoeve.nl

Tip 2: Historical city centre of Vianen
In the historic city centre of Vianen you will see references to the rich history of Vianen everywhere, such as the street pattern, the city walls, the old town hall (1425), the striking Lekpoort (15th century) and the unique mausoleum of Reinout III van Brederode, lord of Vianen, in the Grote Kerk (1542). And you will also find nice shops and cosy restaurants here.
Internet: www.vianenvrijstad.nl

Tip 3: Museum shipyard Vreeswijk
At the former shipyard Buitenweg in the shipping village of Vreeswijk you can discover the history of inland shipping at Museumwerf Vreeswijk. The traditional shipyard with a transverse slipway is still used every day to conserve and restore historic ships. Opposite the museum is the historic harbour with ships from the past.
Address: Wierselaan 113, Nieuwegein Telephone: 030 - 657 95 81 Internet: www.museumwerf.nl

Tip 4: Van Rossum Cheese Farm
Cheese farm van Rossum is a dairy farm with cheese factory and farm shop. In the shop you will find delicious cheeses and many other regional products. In addition to farm cheese according to a centuries-old recipe, you will also find new flavours, such as fenugreek, pesto and nettle cheese. Address: Helsdingse Achterweg 20, Vianen Telephone: 0347 - 37 15 80 Internet: www.kaasboerderijvanrossum.nl

Tip 5: Fort Everdingen
Torenfort Everdingen was built from 1842-1847 as part of the New Dutch Waterline. It was closed to the public for a long time, but now it houses a brewery and tasting room. In a special setting you can now enjoy a bite to eat and/or a drink and experience history.
Address: Noodweg 2, Everdingen Internet: www.forteverdingen.com

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