Beaches, Towns and Tulips

Welcome to Amersfoort, a charming medieval city that perfectly balances history and modern life. After checking in, take a stroll through the old town where cobbled streets wind around gabled houses and historic city gates. You can visit the Koppelpoort, a 15th-century gate that once protected the city, or simply enjoy the cafés and boutiques hidden behind the old walls.

For those arriving early, the city’s museum quarter and Eemhaven harbour area offer an easy introduction to Dutch culture and local cuisine. Amersfoort’s compact layout makes it ideal for walking, and its peaceful canals provide a lovely setting for a relaxed first evening.

Today’s ride takes you through some of the Netherlands’ most picturesque countryside, passing through green meadows, tree-lined canals and quaint villages. You’ll stop in Naarden-Vesting, one of Europe’s best-preserved star-shaped fortresses, before continuing towards the IJsselmeer, a vast inland lake that was once the Zuiderzee.

The final stretch leads you into Amsterdam, the lively capital brimming with history and creativity. Once you arrive, you can explore at your own pace: take a canal cruise, visit the Van Gogh Museum, or simply wander through the narrow streets lined with bicycles and flower stalls. In the evening, enjoy dinner in one of the city’s many waterside restaurants or relax in Vondelpark, the city’s green heart.

Leaving Amsterdam behind, you’ll cycle west towards Haarlem, a city known for its beautiful courtyards and art heritage. Be sure to stop at the Frans Hals Museum, dedicated to the works of the famous Dutch painter, or take a short break at one of the city’s cosy cafés. Haarlem’s hidden gardens, known as “hofjes,” offer a quiet escape and a glimpse of local history.

The route then continues towards the coast, passing near Keukenhof Gardens, a world-renowned park famous for its tulip displays in spring. You’ll end the day in either Zandvoort, a classic seaside town, or Noordwijkerhout, surrounded by dunes and flower fields. Enjoy the sea breeze and, if the weather allows, take a sunset walk along the beach.

Today’s route is filled with cultural and coastal highlights. You’ll begin by cycling through Leiden, a lively university city rich in history. Visit the Royal Museum of Ethnology or stroll through the charming old streets where Rembrandt once lived. Continuing south, the route passes Scheveningen, The Hague’s popular seaside district, known for its wide sandy beach and lively promenade.

You’ll then reach The Hague, the political centre of the Netherlands. Spend the afternoon exploring sights such as the Mauritshuis Museum, home to Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring, or visit Paleis Noordeinde, the working palace of the Dutch king. If you prefer a quieter evening, enjoy a walk through the historic canal district or relax in one of the city’s traditional brasseries.

The journey continues towards Delft, a city famous for its blue-and-white pottery and picturesque canals. This charming town has deep ties to Dutch royalty and the painter Johannes Vermeer. Take time to visit the Nieuwe Kerk, where members of the royal family are buried, or explore the local ceramic workshops to see traditional Delftware being made.

From Delft, the route leads you to Kinderdijk, one of the Netherlands’ most iconic landmarks. Here, 19 historic windmills line the waterways, showcasing centuries of Dutch water management. After exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site, you’ll continue to Papendrecht, a small town on the banks of the river where you can unwind and reflect on a beautiful day of cycling.

Today’s ride follows the river Lek, leading through peaceful countryside and the charming town of Schoonhoven, known for its silversmiths and jewellery-making traditions. You’ll also see fields dotted with cows that produce the milk used for the famous Gouda cheese.

As you approach Utrecht, you’ll notice its impressive skyline marked by the tall Dom Tower. The city’s old centre is filled with canals lined with cafés, shops and museums. You can visit the Museum Speelklok, home to self-playing musical instruments, or enjoy dinner beside the water. Utrecht combines history with a youthful, creative spirit, making it a wonderful stop on your journey.

Your final day on the bike offers one more chance to enjoy the Dutch countryside. The route leads you through open farmland and small villages where windmills still turn slowly in the breeze. It’s a gentle, scenic ride back to Amersfoort, giving you time to take in the tranquillity of the landscape.

If you didn’t explore Amersfoort earlier in the week, today is the perfect opportunity to do so. Visit the Mondriaanhuis, birthplace of the artist Piet Mondrian, or simply relax at one of the local cafés. It’s a fitting end to a week of cycling through some of the most beautiful and culturally rich parts of the Netherlands.