Cycling from Wedde to Bourtange

The nature in Westerwolde is extremely varied with moors, stream valleys, old forests, fens and swamps. This quiet area full of greenery begs to be discovered by bike. A wonderful area for nature lovers near the German border.

Historic ramparts in Bourtange
The village of Wedde forms the starting point of this route. Around the village you will find various nature reserves along the edge of the Westerwoldse Aa river. The largest part of the route then runs through the vast Groningen landscape. Enjoy the view over the extensive fields with here and there a forest and rivers that meander quietly through the landscape. On the way you will pass Bourtange, an old fortified village with a protected townscape. It is definitely worth getting off your bike and visiting this village. You can admire the old city walls and other historic buildings.

Café de Leeuw
Via Veelerveen you will eventually cycle back to Wedde. Here you can settle down at Eetcafé de Leeuw to relax and gain new energy after your bike ride. Drink a cup of coffee here or let yourself be pampered with one of the tasty dishes from the menu. When the weather is nice you can enjoy the sun on the terrace.

Natural sites around Smeerling
Smeerling is a town in Stadskanaal that consists of a number of scattered farms. The town enjoys a protected village view. Here you will find a number of Westerwold farms from the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. In the vicinity of Smeerling you will find beautiful nature reserves such as the Metbroekbos and the Eemboersveld. These areas are part of the Dal van de Ruiten Aa.