Outer dyke route

The cycling routes start at TOP Ooltgensplaat and run over the dikes along the nature reserves of the Krammerse Slikken and the Hellegatse Platen.

The village of Ooltgensplaat has a rich history that dates back to the 15th century. In 1481, the grass-covered clay plate of the same name was allowed to be reclaimed and made suitable for habitation. The village has a number of historic buildings. The Oude Raadhuis, overlooking the harbor of Ooltgensplaat, dates from 1616. Would you like to enjoy a beautiful view? Then visit the Galathese harbor where you can see the most large ships passing by. On the way there, you can enjoy the flower dikes and the wide polder landscape!

Tip 1: Fort Prince Frederik
Fort Prince Frederik was built around 1810 under Napoleon to strengthen the coastal defenses around the Volkerak against the English troops. On the other side you can see the fortified city of Willemstad.
Address: Havendijk 16, Ooltgensplaat

Tip 2: Hellegat plates
The Hellegatsplaat owe their name to the strong current that used to make deep channels here. These were very treacherous to passing skippers. The Hellegatsplaten now form a protected nature reserve with special plants and waterfowl, free-grazing Heck cattle and wild horses. From the watchtower at Ooltgensplaat you have a beautiful view of this area.
Internet: www.wsv-ooltgensplaat.nl/ hellegatsplaten
Lookout tower address: Steigerdijk 20, Ooltgensplaat

Tip 3: Lord Olivier B. Bommel
In the village of Den Bommel (1481) there is a bronze statue of Lord Olivier B. Bommel near the NH church. This statue was unveiled in 1997 by Eizo Toonder, the son of writer Marten Toonder. The village church is a so-called hall church and is more than worth a visit.

For more information about this TOP