Wheat, spelled, oats and their by-products such as straw brought prosperity to East Groningen on the German border. The area, with its endless fields and billowing corn, is not in vain called corn republic.It is an area of contrasts. At the end of the 19th century, the farmers made a lot of money on the fertile clay soils and built magnificent courtyards with large barns behind. In contrast, the workers had to work hard and got a pittance for it. Everywhere in the region you will find examples of sometimes extremely radical ideas that oppose any tradition or established order. In addition to the prime example Blauwestad for example a gallery in a former stable. The former farmland has been transformed into an attractive natural area with countless recreational opportunities.Experience the history of Groninger Gold on a bike ride along the golden-yellow grain and rippling water. It starts on the round trip, for example, at the gates Winschotens. From here you cycle over wide, flat fields to the west. You keep coming back to small villages and settlements. Then you meet the Westerwoldsche Aa and follow it to Bad Nieuweschans, where you can take a leisurely break. Then you continue along the course of the river back to the starting point. On the way you make a detour to Bellingwolde, where impressive mansions line the streets.