Winter dyke

The Winterdijk is a cultural-historical dike located in Polder Bloemendaal between Waddinxveen and Gouda. The approximately 1700 meter long narrow low dike serves as a walking path that is frequently used by walkers, runners, and fishermen. The Winterdijk was constructed around the Middle Ages to ensure that the (reclaimed) land behind the Gouwe would not flood during high water. Hence, the dike is situated parallel to the Gouwe.

The Winterdijk is surrounded by two wide ditches that lie 2.32 meters below sea level. Along these ditches are various plots covered with (rough) grass and/or woody shrubs. Cows and sheep graze in the grasslands for large parts of the year. In addition to this grazing in Polder Bloemendaal, the landscape is unique with various meadow birds such as the Lapwing, the Godwit, and the Redshank.

The Winterdijk used to extend to the Van Bergen IJzendoornpark. Unfortunately, many parts of Gouda have disappeared over the years. Fortunately, there are still some sections of the historical dike visible.
The remnants of the (Waddinxveen) Winterdijk are a cultural-historical and recreational gem of the Green Heart. The dike is connected to several nature walking paths that run through the meadows of Polder Bloemendaal. Recreational visitors can explore this area from the historical open peat meadow landscape.

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