Hollandse Kade

Those who truly want to be 'outdoors' can walk this NS trail through the Groene Hart. Straight, sometimes boggy grass quays where cows graze, a towpath along the river; it doesn't get much more Dutch than this. Birdwatchers take note: many meadows have been designated as bird sanctuaries. With binoculars in hand, you might spot a black-tailed godwit, lapwing, common redshank, or Eurasian oystercatcher. Or a large flock of geese just landing.

Good to know: the name Hollandse Kade refers to one of the characteristic quays in the peat meadow area you walk across. Historically, during reclamation, a quay had to protect the cultivated environment from flooding.

About five kilometers past Breukelen, you reach the village of Kockengen, where you can take a break at one of the hospitality establishments. You continue your journey straight through the meadows where peace and space prevail. The last kilometers you follow the towpath along the Oude Rijn, built in the 17th century for barge navigation. Have time to spare? Then walk from Woerden station to the center, with a wide range of shops, cafes and restaurants.

You can shorten the route to 12 km by taking bus line 127 from Breukelen, Vleuten or Woerden station to Kockengen, getting off at Dreef stop. You can also take bus line 102 after 12 km to Utrecht or Woerden (get on at Geverscop stop, on the route).