A village with a character all of its own
Take a short break from the city. Head out into the surrounding countryside. You’ll be there in no time. There are many villages around the city that are well worth (re)discovering. Where local produce and delicacies await you. Where you can find peace and quiet. Take Ten Boer, for example. And the route to the village is just as beautiful. Stap on your bike and let yourself be amazed.
From the city, you can reach the surrounding countryside in no time – even by bike. Numerous cycle paths will take you straight to your destination. But the shortest route isn’t necessarily the best – or the most scenic. Avoid the cycle paths along the N-roads and venture off the beaten track. Take an extra turn left or right. And feel free stap off your bike for a bit. Just like today.
You’ve barely left the city when you’re already surrounded and greeted by all the greenery. The countryside around Kardinge offers a lovely foretaste of what’s to come. Cycle along the Kardingermaar, with its famous tall trees on either side. Watch the light flicker through the foliage. It warms your heart. And the moment you reach the Noordermolen , you know for sure: the city is behind you. Peace and quiet lies ahead.
Off to the countryside
The first proper stop is Thesinge. Small, cosy. Typically picturesque. You’ll be there in no time and can cycle through it in a few minutes. At the end of the village, you’ll see Groningen’s famous vistas. Meadows stretching as far as the eye can see. Yet you’ll come across plenty along the way. The emptiness of the landscape is filled by horses, cows and tractors. And other cyclists, of course. Feel free to wave. Say hello, have a chat. That way, you’re never completely on your own. When the sun breaks through the clouds again, you realise just how lovely it is to be out and about.
“ ‘In the countryside, you’re never quite on your own’ ”
Peace and space
After a few kilometres, Ten Boer comes into view. A peaceful Groningen village where it’s still truly quiet. Where life doesn’t have to move so fast. The sense of tranquillity begins right at the entrance to the village. A row of old trees leads to the old monastery church. Be sure to check if it’s open and stap inside. Step back in time. At the back of the church grounds, you’ll find the first local business. Ineke from Atelier Bloom & Style has the door open for you. Make yourself at home. As you step over the threshold, you’ll feel as though you’ve entered a paradise for home décor. From beautiful furniture to chic ceramics and an abundance of flowers: you simply must find something here. There’s plenty to choose from. And Ineke’s happy to give you some tips on fun things to do in the village. So, following her advice, you head north: off to the ‘tiny houses’ and the pick-your-own garden.
“ ‘A peaceful Groningen village where it’s still truly quiet’ ”
Going green
As you cycle along the Stadsweg, you’ll see them lying in the field on your left. Countless little cottages. Often self-built. Together, they form a community of their own. No longer waking up in a terraced house, but giving up a few square metres to live amidst nature. It’s peaceful there. And a little further on, there’s even more greenery. That’s where the village’s pick-your-own garden is located. A place where vegetables are grown organically. Without pesticides or other chemical additives. Pure nature. Eating whatever the season has to offer. You too can make the most of this. By becoming a member, you can take home fresh produce every week – from rhubarb to fennel and comfrey. Your basket will be full in no time.
Taking it a notch down
After all that lovely cycling, it’s time to take a break. And where better to relax than in the water? At the De Blinkerd open-air pool, you can enjoy a moment of peace and quiet. Lay your towel down in the flower-filled field and jump into the water. Or simply lie back on the grass with a good book or some lovely music. The choice is yours.
After a dip in the pool, pop out onto the terrace for a while. For example, at Pand 81 or Bij Elzinga. For a drink, a tasty bite to eat or a full meal. Or, on Tuesdays, stroll past the many market stalls in the city centre. Pick up something to take with you on your way. Clear your head, fill your stomach. You’ll realise you want to head out into the countryside more often. It’s just a short trip away.
