A new cycling route through the Green Heart connects the three beautiful Golden Age cities of Oudewater, Schoonhoven, and Gouda. The varied cycling route is 43 kilometers long and passes centuries-old farms and the picturesque river Vlist. In the three historic and atmospheric city centers, you can enjoy terraces, visit a museum, or stroll through the charming shopping streets.
Oudewater
The countryside around Oudewater is part of the open peat meadow area, which is perfect for walking, cycling, and boating. The area along the Lange Linschoten and the Hollandse IJssel rivers, with rows of pollarded trees and fruit trees, are also gems in this region. Along the way, you can visit various farms that are involved in agrotourism. Here you can often buy local products, but also spend the night (campsites) and take advantage of various packages. The city is internationally known for its atmospheric and monumental city center with cozy terraces, nice little shops, and sights such as the Heksenwaag and the Rope Museum.
Schoonhoven
Schoonhoven is unique as a silver city. Goldsmiths have been working in Schoonhoven since the Middle Ages. This is reflected in the current streetscape, with its old monumental silversmith workshops and silversmith houses and more than 30 galleries, jewelers, and studios. Here, gold and silversmiths display traditional as well as modern jewelry, utensils, and above all, free art in silver. In the Dutch Silver Museum Schoonhoven, you will be truly immersed in the world of silver.
Gouda
Gouda is a historic city with allure. Its center offers plenty to see from its rich history and diverse culture. You will find a range of monumental buildings, museums, and galleries with contemporary art. The Market Square is the center of countless pubs, restaurants, and cozy terraces. They offer a unique view of the 15th-century City Hall. The city is also known for its Gouda cheese, which is still traded at the Thursday tourist cheese market from April to August. Finally, Gouda is famous for the manufacture of candles, pipes, and stroopwafels, as well as the annual Gouda by Candlelight event.
Happen en Trappen Culture
The Golden Age Triangle can also be explored via Happen en Trappen culture. You can find more information about this onthe website.