Cycle route: ode to the windmill

The Netherlands and windmills: they belong together. During this cycle route in Midden-Groningen, you will get to know eight characteristic mills, each with their own history and charm. From polder mills on the Groenedijk to atmospheric corn mills. This tour takes you past the heritage and nature of a unique part of the Netherlands.

There are three polder mills close to each other on the Groenedijk, designed to drain the land. The Fraeylema Mill was built in 1786 to drain the Groote Oosterpolder. Molen van de Groote polder, a little further along, is the oldest polder mill in Groningen. De Ruiten windmill has been through a lot: it has burned down twice, been damaged by storms and the screw pump came dry due to land consolidation. But after a major restoration in 2010, the mill was able to do its work again.

You cycle via nature reserve 't Roegwold to Harkstede. Stel's Meulen is located here. The children's farm opposite offers coffee and tea. A little further on in Kolham is the Entreprise. A surprise awaits at the bottom of the mill: the cosy retro shop Jomilly, with home accessories, toys and a Rest Point. Just outside Noordbroek is De Noordstar, an eight-sided peel and flour mill. Cycling towards the Noordermolen, which is further away, you can see the Wester Molen. Both are polder mills. The Noordermolen turns every weekend.