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Castle Cycle Route in North Friesland

Limited access
(75 km)

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Don’t expect to see castles with tall towers in Friesland... But as you cycle through the north of the province you will pass grand historic houses and country estates with beautifully landscaped gardens. In Friesland, these country estates are known as ‘staten’ and ‘stinzen’.

In the Middle Ages, thick-walled stone towers that could be inhabited and defended were built on mounds in Friesland. Today, the Schierstins tower in the village of Feanwâlden is the only one left. Many others were demolished or converted into luxury residences. In Friesland, these country estates are known as ‘staten’. Most of the 60 or so surviving examples are in northern Friesland. 

This cycling route takes you past no less than 7 beautiful country estates: Vijversburg, Uniastate, Popta Slot, Dekemastate, Martenastate, Staniastate and De Klinze. The route starts and ends in the car park at the 

m…

Don’t expect to see castles with tall towers in Friesland... But as you cycle through the north of the province you will pass grand historic houses and country estates with beautifully landscaped gardens. In Friesland, these country estates are known as ‘staten’ and ‘stinzen’.

In the Middle Ages, thick-walled stone towers that could be inhabited and defended were built on mounds in Friesland. Today, the Schierstins tower in the village of Feanwâlden is the only one left. Many others were demolished or converted into luxury residences. In Friesland, these country estates are known as ‘staten’. Most of the 60 or so surviving examples are in northern Friesland. 

This cycling route takes you past no less than 7 beautiful country estates: Vijversburg, Uniastate, Popta Slot, Dekemastate, Martenastate, Staniastate and De Klinze. The route starts and ends in the car park at the 

magnificent Vijversburg Park estate. 

It is best to allow at least a day for this route. Seventy kilometres is a long way to cycle and you also need time to admire 7 country estates. Enjoy a part of Friesland that was home to the nobility!

If you also want to see the castles in the centre of Leeuwarden, be sure to allow at least another day for the Castles in the heart of Leeuwarden walking tour through the capital of Friesland.

Locations on this route

  • Nature- and culture Park Vijversburg

    Park Vijversburg is one of Fryslân’s hidden gems, located near Leeuwarden. Despite its proximity to the city, the 30-hectare park offers space, art, culture and adventure in a tranquil setting. The park is open daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.

    Nature- and culture Park Vijversburg
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  • Poptaslot of Heringastate

    Poptaslot, the jewel among the Frisian Stinzen, called, to the last States and occupant, the wealthy lawyer Dr. Henricus Popta. From his death in 1712 the estate with gardens, canals and ports increasingly managed by 4 guardians. The decor is still m...

    Poptaslot of Heringastate
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  • Dekema State

    Dekema State was originally a noble residence, where several families lived until 1996. The noble residence and the gardens are now open to the public.

    Dekema State
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  • Stania State Country House and Estate

    Stania State is a country house and estate nestled in the woodland between Oentsjerk and Aldtsjerk in Friesland. This unique property is within cycling distance of Leeuwarden and Dokkum (about 10 km).

    Stania State Country House and Estate
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  • De Klinze Country House and Estate

    De Klinze is a country house and estate where you can choose a new bed, enjoy a night away and stroll through a magnificent park. You can also discover the history of the estate through its art and decor!

    De Klinze Country House and Estate
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  • Nature- and culture Park Vijversburg

    Park Vijversburg is one of Fryslân’s hidden gems, located near Leeuwarden. Despite its proximity to the city, the 30-hectare park offers space, art, culture and adventure in a tranquil setting. The park is open daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.

    Nature- and culture Park Vijversburg
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  • 05
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  • 95
  • 94
  • 02
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  • 07
  • 27
  • 56
  • 87
  • 20
  • 70
  • 59
  • 39
  • 77
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