Duivenvoorderoute

The route starts at TOP Zoetermeer-Westerpark and runs through the historic center of Leidschendam to Duivenvoorde Castle. From there the route goes along the lake area from Vlietland to Zoeterwoude. On the way back you will pass children's farm't Geertje.

With an area of 225 hectares, Westerpark is the largest park in Zoetermeer. To the north of the Westerpark, the ruggedly overgrown hills of the Buytenpark form a unique contrast to the surrounding polders. You can find large grazers here and enjoy the wide panorama over the Groene Hart at the highest point. Together with De Balij, the Dobbeplas and the Delftse Hout, they form Buytenhout, a regional park between Zoetermeer and Delft. The egg-shaped Meerpolder (1616) is the oldest polder in South Holland. The mill trio at Wilsveen shows how the polders used to be pumped dry. In this region you can buy homemade products from various (farming) companies. In the northwest, between the estate zone and the (peat) meadow area, lies the rich nature reserve Vogelplas Starrevaart, part of the 300-hectare water sports and recreation area Vlietland.

Tip 1: Westerpark nature garden
The Natural Garden in the Westerpark provides a picture of the landscape in and around Zoetermeer, past and present. Take a walk through the polder with windmills, the willow along reed collars and fields and enjoy the flowery hay meadows. The alternation of clay and peat in the soil and the different water levels have led to a wide variety of plants.
Internet: www.zoetermeer.nl/natuurtuin

Tip 2: Cheese farm De Vierhuizen Farm
De Vierhuizen is a small organic dairy farm. WildeWeidekaas is made from the milk in a traditional way. This is organic farmer's cheese of a particularly high quality. In 2013 and 2014, WildeWeidekaas even became national champion! Nature management is very important on the farm. There are hiking trails through the polder and there is a cozy farm shop.
Address: Geerweg 5, Zoeterwoude Internet: www.kaasboerderijdevierhuizen.nl

Tip 3: Castle and estate Duivenvoorde
Duivenvoorde is a unique and still inhabited castle with estate whose roots go back to the 13th century. It is like a green oasis hidden in a highly urbanized area. There are daily guided tours in the castle museum. The English landscape park - fully restored in 2015 - is rich in stories and has a wealth of special flora and fauna.
Address: Laan van Duivenvoorde 4, Voorschoten Internet: www.kasteelduivenvoorde.nl

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