Around the Veerse Meer
Duration: 4 hours Distance: 60 – 70 km Places: Veere, Kamperland, Kortgene. In the heart of Zeeland lies the Veerse Meer. Once a turbulent sea inlet, it’s now a water sports paradise for many. Charming places such as Kortgene, Kamperland and Veere lie on the lake and are well worth a visit. Along the way, you ride past the beach at Vrouwenpolder, with the North Sea on one side and the Veerse Meer on the other – a unique experience!
With views over the Veerse Meer, you cycle the first 20 kilometres towards Veere. Veere has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. Once a flourishing trading town, Veere was a member of the Hanseatic League, an important network of trading cities in Northern Europe. The town prospered especially in the 16th century, when it was an important port for trade with Scotland. Today, Veere still breathes that historic atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy beautifully preserved medieval architecture, such as the imposing Grote Kerk and the 15th-century town hall. The quay along the harbour offers a picturesque view of historic warehouses and ships. An absolute highlight is the impressive Castle of Veere, built in the 13th century and now a museum. Here, visitors can learn more about the town’s maritime history and enjoy a panoramic view over Veere from the castle tower. Other recommended sights include the historic town hall, the charming market squares and the picturesque alleyways that invite endless wandering and discovery. With its combination of history, architecture and natural beauty, Veere is a must for lovers of history and culture
You continue towards the beach at Vrouwenpolder. This is a wonderfully wide sandy beach overlooking the North Sea, where you can also go for lovely walks. The wide, car-free cycle path runs through the dunes, with the North Sea on one side and the Veerse Meer on the other.
The road continues on the other side of the Veerse Meer towards Kortgene. Throughout this route, you keep a view of the water. Kortgene disappeared entirely beneath the waves during a flood in the 16th century. At the end of the 17th century, the village was reclaimed and given a church. Only the church tower had survived the floods, which makes the 15th-century tower the oldest monument on Noord-Beveland. The picturesque village centre of Kortgene is full of cosy cafés, restaurants and shops, perfect for a relaxed stroll. History lovers can visit the historic churches and windmills in the area, such as the De Korenbloem corn mill.
