The Netherlands are rich with waterways. Many of these have been dug in past ages for several reasons, like a good transport route or just to get the water out to sea as fast as possible. These days they also make a lovely scenery for cycle rides.
This is the Aduarder Diep, originally dug in the Middle Ages to get the water from the city of Groningen to sea. Last year its border has been decorated with a cycle path, again partly funded with European money (this post has some on that).
Looks and is a good rollercoaster ride but you really have to keep your eyes open and your hand close to the brakes. Look out for:
- Sheep. The dike is populated with sheep to keep the grass short. The girder in front is to keep them inside. Sheep don't care about cyclists and love to lie on the warm concrete.
- Sheep shit. Can be quite slippery
- Sharp turns. The road is straight for quite some time but all of a sudden a sharp turn turns up.
- Cycling pensionados. Everybody cycles over here, including old couples who take their time. Riding side by side and both (more or less) deaf. See some in action here.
Other waterways were dug in the 17th and 18th century into the (former) moors of south-eastern Groningen. They were to de-hydrate the area and transport all the peat to the West of the country. This is the Stadskanaal leading to a city with the same name.
A great sight, makes you want to find out if there is an end to it.
No problem, alongside is a cycle path
Enjoy your rides.