Overloon, Bergen, Wanssum

The Meuse once originated as a branch of the Rhine. Traces of the Rhine can still be found in the Meuse soil in nature reserve De Hamert. This is because there is still Rhine gravel in the soil here. Over the centuries, the Meuse has grown into its own river, 950 kilometres long. The source is the Langres Plateau in France, the mouth is finally in the Haringvliet in South Holland via a few intermediate rivers. But one of the most beautiful stretches of the river is undoubtedly the area you will cycle through today: the National Park De Maasduinen (Meuse dunes).

The area is unique because it is the longest river dune belt in the Netherlands. And although you can visit Zooparc Overloon to admire exotic animals, the Maasduinen are also full of special flora and fauna. You could easily come across the smooth snake, sand lizard, bats, beavers and cranes here!

Slightly smaller, but certainly not less beautiful are the Overloonsche Duinen; here you will find the rare juniper bush. You will find these dunes on the other side of the Maas, because today you are cycling on two sides of the river.

There is a lot to see on this cycle route of over 50 kilometres. So take your time and make it a wonderful day (or weekend) away. A good starting point is guaranteed at Poort van Loon (between junctions 54 and 44 near Overloon). There is plenty of parking space and you can enjoy a delicious snack and drink.