Montfoort
Montfoort lies in the south-western part of the Utrecht province, in the middle of the rural Lopikerwaard, and on the beautiful Hollandse IJssel river. Montfoort is a lovely old town and is a real must if you enjoy walking and cycling, but also if you enjoy roller skating or riding a scooter.

History
History teaches us that Montfoort owes its colourful existence to Bishop Godfried van Rhenen. He had a strong fortress built on a strategic point of the Hollandse IJssel. Montfoort was called Mons Fortis in 1163. This name referred to the castle on the Hollandse IJssel that Godfried built to protect the diocese of Utrecht against attacks and looting of the Counts of Holland.
A market grew around the fortress, where sellers settled under the protection of a viscount. In this way, Castrum Muntford came into existence and, in 1329, was given town rights. In the 14th century, a flourishing commune developed here. When France attacked the Dutch Republic, the medieval castle was blown up, leaving only the old gateway and an octagonal tower standing. The gateway of the frontal fortress still exists and is called “the castle” in Montfoort.

Monuments
A restaurant is currently situated in the castle, which is a nice place to linger throughout the year. On a warm summer’s day, people enjoy sitting on the terrace under the trees. If you are in Montfoort, it is nice to take a walk through the town gate, where you have a good view of the Hollandse IJssel. In the summer, Montfoort bristles with pleasure boats and, over the bridge you will be able to see how the lock is still operated by hand. In the centre, the main eye-catcher is the St Janskerk, a 15th century cruciform church. In the immediate vicinity of this church, is the Commanderije, founded by the Johannieter order in 1544. At the moment, the Commanderije serves as a council chamber and wedding room. From the gallery of the De Valk mill, you have a fantastic view over Monfoort and its surrounding area.

Linschoten
When you drive into Linschoten, you are immediately under the spell of the beauty and the tranquillity radiated by the village. The old village centre of Linschoten, with its picturesque village view, is well worth a visit.

History
According to information, in ca. 900 AD, there was already permanent residence in the polders of Schagen and Den Engh. Because of its source of income from agriculture, this fertile soil was an ideal place for landowners and other administrators. In 1647, the House van Linschoten was built by Johan Strick. In 1720, this house, which lies beautifully along the Lange Linschoten, was embellished by Johan Strick’s grandson and, along with the park forest and nine royal residences, remained in the possession of the Strick (van Linschoten) family until 1891. Afterwards, it was sold to Mr Ribbius Peletier. The entire area is now a protected nature reserve. Because of the flora and fauna, the area retains its protected character. In the spring and summer there are annual concerts, and guided walks are arranged with the cooperation of the VVV Tourist Information Office of Montfoort.

It hardly needs saying that, in the Montfoort area, there is plenty of scope for lovely walks and bike rides. Walks which you really cannot miss are the Engherkade Route, the Blokland Route and the Noordzijdse Kade Route. The latter route takes you through a newly opened nature reserve where splendid birds can be seen. Even spoonbills have been spotted here. Depending on the route you choose, you can visit a farm: Doruvael (cheese dairy and Country Shop of The Green Heart) or “Het Beloken Land” where you can book a tour through the stables (old equipment) and through the duck coops.

Cycling
Following on from “the month of May, cycling month”, a wonderful 40-km cycling route has been laid out, during which you can call in at IJsselstein and Oudewater. The cycle route can, of course, be obtained throughout the entire year from the VVV Tourist Information Office. On the way, there are plenty of opportunities to rest and have something to drink. Furthermore, we offer various other enjoyable short or long cycle routes in the area, which guarantee a day of “pure nature” (Lopikerwaard route and the Willescop route). After a day of walking or cycling, you can of course go to Montfoort’s centre and settle down at one of the outdoor cafes.