National Landscape Middag-Humsterland

Cycling in the oldest cultural landscape of the Netherlands, with unspoiled farmland, characteristic mound villages, centuries-old churches, and meandering waterways.

The Landscape

Not far from the Wadden Sea and Lauwersmeer National Park lies the National Landscape Middag-Humsterland, one of the oldest and most well-preserved cultural landscapes in the Netherlands. This area radiates authenticity and tranquility, offering expansive views, ancient mounds, dikes, and salt marshes. Here, peace and space seem timelessly preserved.

The landscape is defined by ancient stream channels, charming mound villages with centuries-old brick churches, narrow winding roads, and historic dikes. On the elevated mounds, stately manors and distinctive farmhouses grace the scenery, nestled amidst green meadows where cattle graze in serene tranquility. This timeless setting narrates the fascinating story of the enduring struggle between humans and water, along with the delicate harmony between nature and culture that defines this unique area.

Estates and Heritage

Polders and Farmlands

Rivers and Streams

Cycle with us through past and present

Cycling stories of cotters, landowners, churches, and dwelling mounds

National Landscape Middag-Humsterland, located to the northwest of the city of Groningen, is the oldest still recognizable cultural landscape in the Netherlands. In this video, the region sets the stage for a 46-kilometer cycling route that takes you through centuries of history, water management, religious influences, and social structures. Cyclists here literally experience the layers of time and culture.

👉 Tip: Turn on the subtitles in the YouTube video to follow the full story.

Route map

Start and finish near bike node 59 on the Burgemeester van Barneveldweg in Aduard. However, this bicycle route is a round trip, so that offers the ability to start at any desired bike node.

59 - 43 - 45 - 95 - 83 - 82 - 84 - 85 - 67 - 66 - 47 - 45 - 48 - 65 - 19 - 64 - 1 - 60 - 58 - 59