Barendrecht, Westmaas, Maasdam

The Sint Anthoniepolder is a special piece of history in the Hoeksche Waard, which was miraculously spared during the devastating Sint-Elisabethflood of 1421. While large parts of the surrounding area were swept away, this polder stood its ground thanks to its strategic location and the dykes that managed to hold back the water masses. This preserved not only the polder itself, but also the historic Reformed Church of Sint Anthoniepolder, which still stands proudly. This made the polder a rare relic of medieval diking history and a symbol of human resilience and engineering skill.

Along this historic route, you will find a series of impressive mills that have been of great importance over the centuries. Wheat mills De Hoop, De Lelie, De Goede Hoop, Windlust and the Oostmolen played a crucial role in draining the surrounding polders and protecting the land from flooding. These mills were not only responsible for water management, but also for grinding grain into flour for the local population. Thanks to these mills, residents no longer had to make distant trips by boat to mills in other villages, but could get freshly ground flour close to home. This efficient facility contributed to the development and self-sufficiency of the region.

Cycling through this area, you largely follow the course of the Binnenbedijkte Maas. This watercourse winds right through the landscape and is an essential part of the polder's water management. To this day, excess water from the polders enters the Binnenbedijkte Maas. And if you cycle on a hot summer day, you can also take a refreshing dip here.

This cycle route also takes you along the beautiful green banks of the Old Meuse. Enjoy the ancient dykes, historic mills and a unique polder area that has stood the test of time.