Groningen, Haren, Onnen, Zuidlaren, Rolde

Two friends, Toos and Bertje devised and walked the Pieterpad between 1978 and 1983. A long-distance walking route (500 km) from Pieterburen in northern Groningen to Sint-Pietersberg in southern Limburg in 26 stages that are easily accessible by public transport and where you can stay overnight. The scenery along the way is hugely varied, but equally beautiful everywhere.

Where you can walk, you can also cycle, and we wouldn't be Fietsnetwerk if we didn't set out some beautiful cycling tours for you inspired by the Pieterpad. We made 14 routes totalling almost 1,300 km along all the places on the Pieterpad. We did make circles of them so that you always return to your starting point. This is part 2 and leads from Groningen to Rolde.

You cycle from the city of Groningen to Assen in the province of Drenthe. Along the way, you'll encounter beautiful views and impressive sights. But of course, also take the time to enjoy a well-earned break at a nice catering establishment.

In Groningen, you can visit the Groninger Museum. This beautiful work of art of a building was designed by Architect Alessandro Mendini. In this museum, you will admire old and new art but also come across exhibitions on fashion and graphic designers. Cycle on to Haren where you will find one of the largest and oldest botanical gardens in the Netherlands. The unique array of plants and flowers is definitely worth stopping off for. To stay in arty atmospheres of the Groninger Museum, you can view various pieces by various artists in the garden here too.

Heading towards Zuidlaren, you cycle along the impressive lake where you'll be met with stunning views. In Zuidlaren, you will find 2 old windmills, both of which can be visited. In this area, you'll find many mills, many of which have been well preserved or refurbished in such a way that it sometimes seems like you're going back in time 100 years. From Zuidlaren it is not far to Assen. Not only is this a very pleasant city, but you will also find the Drents Museum here. Drenthe is known as a primeval province and not without reason. In this area, many items have been found that date back to ancient times, which you can admire in this museum.

Through farmlands and characteristic farms you continue your trip further north. Still waters and meandering rivers glisten in the landscape.
Want to cycle this route and see lots of sights? Look for somewhere to stay overnight in the area, as it is definitely worth it!