The Netherlands Bicycle Tour

Exploring the Netherlands by bike is an immersive experience in a country where cycling is much more than just a means of transportation; it is a true institution. The kingdom, with its gentle and welcoming topography, is crisscrossed by over 32,000 kilometers of bike paths, winding through diverse landscapes, offering views of centuries-old windmills, vibrant tulip fields in the spring, and picturesque villages where time seems to have stood still.

This exceptionally well-designed and maintained cycling network facilitates the exploration of the country’s iconic sites, such as the vibrant cities of Amsterdam and Rotterdam, as well as lesser-known gems like Amersfoort, Haarlem, Leiden, or Delft. The routes are dotted with clear signs, making navigation intuitive through lively urban landscapes and peaceful natural havens. Moreover, the Netherlands offers a welcoming infrastructure for cyclists, with numerous cafes, inns, and bike repair stations catering to the needs of two-wheeled travelers.

Beyond practicality, traveling by bike in the Netherlands allows for full immersion in the local culture. The country has a deep-rooted cycling tradition, and as you ride through its landscapes, you'll experience firsthand the Dutch dedication to sustainability and community. The cycle-friendly design of cities dates back decades, reflecting a national commitment to reducing car traffic and promoting green mobility.

As you pedal along the peaceful canals, you'll witness the architectural history of the Netherlands, with elegant 17th-century townhouses lining the waterways, especially in cities like Amsterdam and Utrecht. The flat, reclaimed lands—known as polders—tell the story of the Dutch mastery over water, a hallmark of their resilience and ingenuity. The iconic windmills, many of which were built in the 18th century, stand as symbols of this engineering prowess, helping to drain water from low-lying areas to make them habitable and arable. Cycling through places like Kinderdijk, you can almost feel the centuries of history that have shaped this unique landscape.

In addition to the landscape, local culture is revealed in the small details. You'll pass through quaint villages where local markets offer traditional Dutch cheeses, and perhaps you'll stop at a café to enjoy a slice of apple pie with a dollop of whipped cream, a beloved treat in this part of the world. You may even spot a few locals wearing wooden clogs, a traditional craft that is still practiced today in some regions. Cycling brings you close to these authentic aspects of Dutch life, creating an experience that's as enriching as it is enjoyable.

Day 1: Arrival in Amersfoort

Amersfoort is a charming city where the past remains very much alive thanks to the many historic buildings. You can stroll through the alleys of the historic center and admire the ancient ramparts.

Day 2: Amersfoort - Amsterdam (63/68 km, 39/42 mi)

Before reaching the popular capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam, you will pass by Naarden-Vesting, one of the best-preserved fortresses on the continent. The route briefly follows the shores of the Markermeer lake, which was formerly a sea called the 'Zuiderzee'. You will then arrive in Amsterdam, a city where you can never be bored! Be amazed by its charming canals (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) that crisscross the city, earning it the nickname "Venice of the North". Amsterdam also houses many fascinating museums, such as the Royal Museum, the Van Gogh Museum, or the Anne Frank House.

Day 3: Amsterdam – Zandvoort/Noordwijkerhout (50/60 km, 31/37 mi)

First, you will reach Haarlem, a city known for its 'hofjes,' small gardens that were maintained by the wealthier residents during the 18th and 19th centuries. In these gardens, many elderly widows worked hard to make ends meet. Culture lovers can visit the 'Frans Hals Museum', a former almshouse showcasing famous paintings by Frans Hals. After Haarlem, you will arrive at the famous Keukenhof, a renowned botanical garden. During tulip season (April and early May), a visit is a must. You will then cycle along the coast through a picturesque route in the dunes.

NB: If staying in Zandvoort, you will pass Keukenhof on Day 4.

Day 4: Zandvoort/Noordwijkerhout – The Hague/Delft (45/55/60 km, 28/34/37 mi)

Once again, you will experience breathtaking sights! First, you will pass through Leiden, known for its prestigious university and rich historical heritage. Leiden is also a cultural city with several museums, including the Royal Museum of Ethnology and the St. Peter's Church. After Leiden, you will reach Scheveningen and its beautiful sandy beach. Finally, you will arrive in The Hague (Den Haag), the seat of the Dutch government. However, The Hague is much more than just the administrative capital of the Netherlands. Take the time to admire the 'Catshuis,' 'Noordeinde Palace,' and other cultural gems such as the Mauritshuis, or simply enjoy strolling through the historic city center along its charming canals.

Day 5: The Hague/Delft – Papendrecht (45/60/68 km, 28/37/42 mi)

The first city you will encounter en route to Papendrecht is Delft, which, like Leiden, has a renowned university. Delft is also one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands. This is evident in the city center, marked by beautiful historic buildings that testify to a prosperous past as a trading town. Like Amsterdam, Delft is also known for its charming canals. You will then arrive in Rotterdam, a modern and dynamic city characterized by futuristic architecture, having been rebuilt after being destroyed by the Germans during World War II. Later in the day, you will ride along the Kinderdijk, perhaps the most iconic site in the Netherlands with its picturesque windmills surrounded by canals.

Day 6: Papendrecht – Utrecht (62 km, 39 mi)

Your discovery of the Netherlands continues with Schoonhoven. This small, romantic town is located on the banks of the 'Lek' river. In the surrounding area, many farmers raise dairy cows to produce the famous 'Gouda' cheese. Another curiosity in the town is the Museum of Gold, Silver, and Clocks. You will then pedal through idyllic landscapes until you reach Utrecht, one of the largest cities in the Netherlands. Stroll through the historic center with its photogenic canals and visit the churches or one of the museums, such as the Royal Museum.

Day 7: Utrecht – Amersfoort (45 km, 28 mi)

The final stage before completing the loop! This is the perfect time to take some pictures of the typical panoramas in this region, which is often referred to as the "Green Heart of Holland" thanks to its vast expanses of pastures. Since this stage is not too long, you will also have the opportunity to explore the city of Amersfoort in greater depth if you didn’t have the chance to do so on the first day.

Day 8: End of the trip or extension

End of the trip after breakfast. You have the option to extend your stay with an extra night in Amersfoort.

1. Duration:
   
   8 days and 7 nights, including the arrival and departure days. 6 days of cycling.
   


2. Seasonality: possible departures between April 14 and September 8.
   
   The climate of the Netherlands is oceanic. This means that the weather is relatively humid, but fortunately, the showers are usually brief, with precipitation occurring only about 1 in 3 days on average.
   
   The pleasant season runs from April to October, though a heatwave, like everywhere else, is not entirely out of the question in summer.
   
   
3. Possible departure days:
   
   Sundays (also Saturdays from July 6 to August 17)
   
   
4. Arrival and return:
   
   
   • Start of the trip: Amersfoort
   
   
   • End of the trip: Amersfoort
   
   
   Train +

   • From Brussels: About 2h30 in total. Take the Eurostar to Rotterdam-Centraal (1h10), then the IC train to Amersfoort (57 min).
     
     
   • From Paris: First, take the Thalys to Brussels (1h21), then transfer to the Eurostar (see "From Brussels" for more details).
     
     
   • From Lyon and Marseille: First, take the TGV to Brussels, then transfer to the Eurostar (see "From Brussels" for more details).
     
     For budget travelers, there are also coach lines from most major cities. The travel time is, of course, much longer. Blablabus and Flixbus have the most extensive networks.
   
   
   Car+

   • From Brussels: 200 km
   • From Paris: 500 km
   • From Lyon: 900 km
   • From Marseille: 1210 km
   • From Bordeaux: 1070 km
   • From Geneva: 950 km (via Germany to avoid tolls)
   
   
5. Parking:
   
   A paid parking lot is available at the first hotel (around €12 per day). You can leave your car there for the entire week.


6. Meeting point:
   
   The cycling journey begins on the morning of Day 2. If you have rented bikes, a member of our local team will deliver them to your accommodation either early in the morning or the evening before.


7. Route type:
   
   Circular route. At the end of the trip, you return to your starting point.


8. Guidance:
   
   Self-guided, with access to a hotline for assistance in case of any issues during the trip. For navigation, you'll receive a detailed roadbook in French and GPS tracks through an easy-to-use app. Since the app uses satellite navigation, no internet connection is needed.


9. Level: Easy
   
   
   • Elevation gain: This part of the Netherlands is almost entirely below sea level, so the only elevation you'll encounter is in the hotel stairs!
   
   
   • Stage lengths: The stages are designed to allow you to go at your own pace and make several visits along the way. While some stages may seem long at first glance (up to 68 km), since the route is flat, the kilometers fly by without much effort.
   
   
   • Terrain: More than 95% paved roads. A few compact gravel paths, which do not require suspension or mountain bike tires.
   
   
10. Accommodations:
    
    Comfortable 4* hotels such as NH. This is a little different from the family hotels we usually work with on our other tours, but for the Netherlands we work with a local partner who chooses the hotels himself for logistical reasons.
    
    These are generally located in the center (or a few minutes walk from it), except in Amsterdam, where you will need to take public transport to reach the old town. If availability is limited, you may stay in a 3* hotel in Amsterdam.
    


11. Meals:
    
    Breakfasts are always included. If you'd like to dine at the hotel, you can also opt for the half-board option.
    
    Lunches are always on your own. You can eat at local restaurants or have a picnic after stopping at supermarkets.
    


12. Luggage transport:
    
    You only carry your day’s essentials during the cycling stages. Your luggage is transported from one accommodation to the next by us, and you’ll find it at your accommodation at the end of the day.
    
    If you'd like to carry your luggage in panniers, you’ll receive a discount.


13. Travel documents:
    
    A roadbook and GPS tracks (via a navigation app)
    
    
14. Bikes:
    
    We offer the rental of high-quality bikes, fully equipped and suited for the terrain.
    
    The equipment includes a smartphone mount, a waterproof rear bag, a lock, a repair kit, and (upon request) a helmet.
    
    You can also rent an electric bike for this trip.
    
    If you plan to use your own bike, make sure to check all parts of the bike beforehand (brake wear, tires, gears, chain, etc.) to ensure it is technically sound for a 300 km ride.
    The bikes suitable for this trip include trekking bikes, mountain bikes, gravel bikes, and electric bikes (provided they have a good battery!).


15. Insurance:
    
    To guarantee reimbursement in case of cancellation or issues during your trip, you can purchase cancellation insurance (CAP Explorer - cancellation) or assistance insurance (CAP Explorer - assistance). For more details on insurance, click here.

The price of the tour and the bike rentals is given in below tables:




The base price includes:

• A roadbook
• The GPS tracks of the route via our navigation app
• 7 nights in a 4* hotel
• 7 breakfasts
• The transportation of your luggage between accommodations
• Access to our hotline and assistance in the event of a problem (except simple repairs such as punctures/derailments)
• Tourist taxes
• Registration fees

The available options:

• On-site bike rental with/without electric assistance
• Half-board supplement
• Single room supplement
• Additional nights in Amersfoort
• Optional insurance: cancellation or multi-risk

The price does not include:

• The round-trip journey to your hotel in Amersfoort
• Entrance fees for tourist sites and other personal expenses
• Anything not listed under "price includes"

Other:

Children benefit from discounts (see table), provided the family agrees to stay in family rooms when available.

Groups of 6 or more people receive a 5% discount.

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