From Staphorst via Zwartsluis into nature

From idyllic Staphorst, you will cycle into the nature of Overijssel. You will be treated to beautiful views of meadows with grazing cows. Grasslands are screened by trees and the many ditches are particularly suitable for fishing. You will arrive in Zwartsluis, a village and port town, at the place where the Zwarte Water and Meppelerdiep rivers meet. You will cycle through the center, through narrow streets and across the lock. After a section with new buildings on one side and old farms on the other, you will see National Park Weerribben-Wieden. Water and land alternate and you cycle between them. Typical marsh inhabitants such as birds, fish, mammals, reptiles and insects, find a place in the varied vegetation and the special plant world. After this oasis of tranquility, you will still visit the Drenthe town of Meppel. The town was already mentioned in 1141. Sights include the Grote Kerk, the Watertoren, the windmills and the historic town center. Along the canal, the border between Overijssel and Drenthe, the route returns to Staphorst.