Haaksbergen, Eibergen, Neede

Haaksbergen, Eibergen, Neede

The village of Haaksbergen is located in the corner of Twente. Although you are almost in the Achterhoek and also almost Germany, the village is very much Twente. You cycle through the beautiful surroundings full of estates, peat areas and small hamlets. Haaksbergen itself is also highly recommended: it is one of the most pleasant villages in this region!

The beautiful village of Eibergen is situated on the Berkel, a river that contributes to the food supply of the region. In the 19th century, the Berkel was a very busy shipping route, and watermills were used to move the water that allowed boats to sail. This provided an efficient way to transport goods across the river.

As early as around 1400, there is writing about a water mill near Mallum. Presumably, this was used for the current Mallumse Molen. The Mallumse Molen was also called a compulsory mill. This means that residents of Mallum were obliged to have their corn ground in this mill. In the past, there were mills on both sides of the river, but both burned down in the 18th century. After this, they were not both rebuilt, but only on one side of the river.

Where you can still see such a mill (on both sides of the river) is near Haaksbergen. Here you will find the Oostendorper Watermill, built in 1548. This mill has withstood quite a lot over the years. Even in the 20th century. In 1946, large parts of the mill were washed away by a flood. Years later, architect Jan Jans rebuilt the mills and the view was complete again.

In addition to these watermills, you will pass several other mills. Take the time to get off here and enjoy the view.