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Slachtedyk Friesland | Cycling route

(46.1 km)

Discover the Frisian landscape by bike and let yourself be enchanted by the cycling route Slachtedyk!

The Slachtedyk is a very old dike, approximately 42 kilometers long. In the past, this dike was crucial for protecting the land against the Middel Sea. It is one of the most well-known dikes in Friesland. What makes this dike extra special is that since 2000, a marathon has been held every four years along its route. This adds an interesting historical aspect to the route. The dike runs from Oosterbierum to Raerd.

In spring, the dike blooms beautifully with vibrant flowers. A journey along the Slachtedyk showcases the best of Fryslân and is definitely worth exploring.

Locations on this route

Start point:

8855 RS Oosterbierum
Navigate to starting point
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69
Getswerdersyl

The Getswerdersyl was the northernmost lock of the Slachtedyk. In 1982, the lock was demolished, and a large memorial monument now stands in the place of the old lock.

Getswerdersyl
12
Franeker (Frjentsjer)

The Elfsteden city Franeker is a captivating town with its rich university history. For many years, this city was home to numerous students, including well-known names such as Descartes.

Franeker (Frjentsjer)
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Achlum

Achlum is a picturesque village along the Achlumervaart. Did you know that the alternative Elfstedentocht (Eleven Cities Tour) passes through this canal? The Slachtedijk also runs along the village. Explore the numerous national monuments on foot, by bike, or by boat.

Achlum
Gertrudis-Church Achlum

The Reformed church is located on a relatively high mound along the Slachtedijk, originally dedicated to Saint Gertrude. It is a national monument.

Gertrudis-Church Achlum
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Aylvapoldermill Burgwerd

This polder mill was built in 1846 and reconstructed in the year 2000.

Aylvapoldermill Burgwerd
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Lytsewierrum (Lutkewierum)

Visit the terp village of Lytsewierrum, located at the end of a dead-end road. The village has a protected village view.

Lytsewierrum (Lutkewierum)
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St Martin’s Church Fresco

While restoration work was being carried out at St Martin’s Church in Boazum, a remarkable fresco was discovered. The 12th-century church is one of the oldest Roman churches in Friesland. The fresco is very unusual in that it shows Jesus without a beard.

St Martin’s Church Fresco
13
The Swette

The Swette was dug as a drainage and boundary ditch between the regions of Oostergo and Westergo after the Middelzee had silted up.

The Swette
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Raerd (Rauwerd)

Discover Raerd, a Frisian terp village that radiates tranquility, space, and a sense of community.

Raerd (Rauwerd)