Lemmer, Oosterzee, Echten

Get on your bike in Lemmer and let yourself be carried along a beautiful route that takes you along three wonderful lakes: Lake IJssel, the Grote Brekken and the Lake Tjeukemeer.

Lemmer has a rich history as a fishing town and trading centre on the former Zuiderzee. The village's name appears in documents as early as 1228. Thanks to its strategic location by the sea, fishing and shipping flourished. You can still taste the maritime atmosphere in Lemmer's cosy harbour and canals. Visit the lighthouse overlooking the calm water that used to be rough sea. The Woudaemaal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also worth a visit.

From here, the trip takes you along the Grote Brekken. This calm lake is surrounded by marshes and reed beds. Many birds find their home here, which is why you will find many observation huts in this area. Further east is the Tjeukemeer, Friesland's largest inland lake. Along the shores of this lake you will come across a number of pumping stations that contribute to keeping today's polders dry.

In this wetland environment, nature goes hand in hand with Friesland's fascinating history. Explore the old fishing stories and enjoy the fantastic views.

Photo: De Lemster Krant