Forts and Cheese Scenic Drive

The Forts and Cheese Scenic Drive is a 51 km route through the heart of the Netherlands, starting in Utrecht and ending in Leerdam. Along the way, you will pass through the charming town of Culemborg, where you can visit the Castle of Culemborg and the Culemborg cheese market. Spring and summer are the best times of the year to take this drive, as the landscape is at its most vibrant. The roads along the route are mostly excellent, although some sections are narrow. The Forts and Cheese Scenic Drive is an unforgettable experience, full of sights and memories. It's suitable for drivers of all levels and can be managed with any budget. Your journey will be filled with beautiful landscapes, historic forts and delicious cheese, making it a must-do for any traveler to the Netherlands.

Utrecht is a city in the Netherlands that is the perfect starting point for the “Forts and Cheese Scenic Drive”. Located in the center of the country, Utrecht is home to a variety of historic sites and attractions. From the Dom Tower, the highest church tower in the Netherlands, to the Oudegracht, an old canal lined with shops and restaurants, there is something for everyone in Utrecht. For those looking to explore the city further, the Utrecht City Museum offers interactive exhibitions and guided tours. Additionally, the Rietveld Schroder House and the Railway Museum are both great places to visit. For those flying in from abroad, the closest international airport is Schiphol Amsterdam Airport (AMS). Car rentals are available at the airport for those interested in beginning their journey in Utrecht. No matter how you choose to arrive, Utrecht is a great starting point for the “Forts and Cheese Scenic Drive”. With its rich history and vibrant culture, Utrecht is sure to provide a memorable start to your trip.

Embark on a road-trip from Utrecht to Culemborg! This 35km route will take you less than 2 hours to complete, and is the perfect way to explore the Netherlands. Along the way you will find plenty of interesting sites to explore, such as the Kasteel de Haar and the Wilhelmina Tower. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the ferry crossing and the narrow sections of the road. Once in Culemborg, you can explore the castle and the 16th century city walls. For more information on the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your trip!

Are you ready for an amazing road trip? Start your journey in Culemborg, Netherlands, and make your way to Leerdam, just 16 km away. The entire drive should take you less than an hour, but you may want to take your time and enjoy the narrow sections of the road. Along the way, make sure to visit the iconic Culemborg Castle, the beautiful Grote Kerk in Leerdam, and the stunning Nationaal Park De Biesbosch. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip!

Leerdam is a small city in the Netherlands that marks the end of the "Forts and Cheese Scenic Drive". It is known for its pottery and glassworks and is a great place to visit for anyone interested in the history of the region. Leerdam is home to the Museum of Ceramic Art which showcases the work of local potters, as well as the Glass Museum which displays the work of glassblowers from the region. The city also has some beautiful parks to explore. The Leerdamse Hof is a lovely green space that's ideal for a leisurely stroll, while the Kasteelpark is the perfect spot for a picnic or a game of frisbee. For those looking to do some shopping, the city center is filled with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Leerdam is also home to one of the oldest cheese factories in the Netherlands. The Beemster cheese factory is a great place to learn more about the cheese-making process and to sample some of the delicious local cheese. For those traveling by car, Leerdam is easily accessible from Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS).

Before you set off

The Forts and Cheese Scenic Drive is an enchanting 51 km journey commencing in the historic city of Utrecht and culminating in the charming town of Leerdam, renowned for its glasswork and cheese. As you traverse the Dutch countryside, this scenic route offers a delightful fusion of cultural heritage and gastronomic indulgence, showcasing the region's famous cheese-making tradition alongside an array of historic forts that once formed part of the Netherland's defense lines.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

Amidst the Scenic Drive, Roadtrippers will encounter the captivating town of Culemborg, where the impressive 14th-century Castle of Culemborg stands as a testament to the town's medieval past. Visitors can immerse themselves in local history at the Culemborg cheese market, a tradition that dates back centuries and celebrates the region's rich dairy industry. Additionally, the route is dotted with numerous historic forts, such as Fort Vuren and Fort Everdingen, which were integral to the New Dutch Waterline—a remarkable feat of military engineering designed to protect the Netherlands from invasion.

Best Time to Go:

The ideal times to embark on this enchanting drive are during spring and summer. In these seasons, the Dutch landscape bursts into life with colorful tulip fields and vibrant greenery, providing a stunning backdrop for your journey. These months also offer the most pleasant weather for exploring the open-air attractions and enjoying regional cheeses at their freshest.

Potential Risks:

While the journey is mostly serene, some sections feature narrow Roads that can be challenging for drivers unfamiliar with the territory. It's advisable to remain vigilant, especially around tight bends and when encountering cyclists, a common sight in the Netherlands.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

The Forts and Cheese Scenic Drive is perfect for travelers of varying interests and budgets. Did you know that the Dutch Waterline forts you'll encounter were strategically used to flood areas and create barriers against enemy troops? Also, Leerdam, your final destination, is not only famous for its cheese but also for its exquisite glasswork, with a history of glass production dating back to 1765.

A good choice for:

For history buffs, culinary enthusiasts, and those seeking a tranquil escape into the Dutch countryside, the Forts and Cheese Scenic Drive is a hidden gem. It's a journey that offers a taste of the Netherlands' storied past, its world-famous dairy products, and the serene beauty of its rural landscapes. Whether you're indulging in a slice of authentic Leerdammer cheese or exploring a centuries-old fort, this Scenic Drive is sure to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the Dutch way of life.