The Biesbosch Line in bloom
Spring is perhaps the most beautiful season to explore the Biesboschlinie. Nature awakens, the banks turn fresh green and everywhere you can hear the songs of birds returning to the area. This unique landscape, where water and land constantly interact, offers a special experience for hikers and cyclists at this time of year.
We tip you off to the five most beautiful routes in spring. Each of them routes that let you enjoy blooming nature, peaceful views, water and history. Head out and experience for yourself how versatile and lively the region is in spring.
1. Around Uitwijk (6.6 km)
Discover the peaceful polder landscape of the Biesboschlinie with the atmospheric Rondje Uitwijk: a versatile spring walk where nature, heritage and tranquility come together perfectly.
You start in the cozy village of Uitwijk. Soon you walk along the meandering little river the Wijde Alm, where the water and the wide views provide a relaxing start to your tour. Through a green ribbon of paths you reach the Almbos, a surprising piece of nature where you may even pick fruit in season. The route continues and eventually brings you to the remarkable Fort Giessen: the southernmost part of the Nieuwe Hollandse Waterlinie. Is the gate open? Then be sure to step inside. Enthusiastic volunteers will be happy to tell you more.
Through country roads you walk back towards Uitwijk. Prefer to be out and about a bit longer? Extend your walk along the Wijde Alm for additional nature experiences and even more beautiful views.
View walking route2. Gnome walk Almbos (1 km)
The gnome walk is extra enchanting in spring: flowers bloom everywhere and the fresh green shines in the sunlight. Perfect weather for exploring the Almbos in Giessen together with the children. Search along and find the gnome children's wooden shoes. At the nuggets you will find tasks that require running, climbing, searching and guessing.
A perfect route to enjoy nature in its most beautiful season while the kids are nice and active outdoors.
View walking routeRoute 3 & 4
Cycle route Biesbosch ( 23.4 km)
Explore the watery world of the Biesbosch during this varied bicycle route through beautiful nature. You cycle along winding creeks, over small islands and through rugged willows, and experience the peace and space that make the Biesbosch so special. A landscape that comes alive in the spring.
On the way you pass the Spieringsluis, which connects the Biesbosch with the Nieuwe Merwede. A nice point to stop and take in the water landscape. Further on you pass Fort Steurgat, a former defensive structure that once served to guard the passage across the water.
Biesbosch Fortified Town Tour ( 69.8 km)
Cycle through history and nature with the Biesboschlinie Fortentocht and discover the special landscape of the New Dutch Waterline. You will ride past imposing forts, old locks and green polders, while enjoying peace, space and rich stories from the past along the way.
Along the way you will pass among others Fort Bakkerskil and Fort Altena, each with its own story and function within the line. Also on your route are Fort Giessen and Fort Steurgat, hidden in the greenery that grows and blossoms in springtime. Cycling through the Noordwaard makes the tour extra special, with plenty of birds and impressive nature.
5. Walking and boating route (8.7 km)
Venture out with the walking & boating route and discover a varied combination of city, nature and water. You will explore the charming fortified towns of Woudrichem and Gorinchem, which have been connected by the Merwede for centuries. Along the way you will cross the river twice by ferry - an experience in itself!
Stroll through atmospheric streets, stroll over the city walls and let yourself be carried away by the history of Unesco World Heritage Hollandse Waterlinies. In between the cities, nature reserve Groesplaat offers a beautiful contrast, where the floodplains blossom in spring and you walk along fresh greenery and wide views.
Extra fun: photographer Martine walked this route herself and captured her experience. This gives you an atmospheric foretaste of what to expect along the way.
View walking and boating route