Arrival in Utrecht. Utrecht lies in the very centre of the Netherlands, near woodland and the small River Kromme Rijn. Big city Centre Utrecht is not far away and has shops galore, museums and a friendly night life. For availability reasons it's possible you will stay in Bunnik instead of Utrecht.
If you want you can also start and finish this tour in Amsterdam.
Idyllic scenery today as you cycle to Amsterdam on the banks of the lovely River Vecht. Characteristic for this area are the many stately homes and summerhouses built by rich Amsterdam merchants in the 17th and 18th Centuries. At the end of the day, Amsterdam awaits! Everyone has their own reasons for loving this remarkable city. What will yours be?
You will love the elegant city of Haarlem, voted best city for shopping. Remember to look up at the façades of historical buildings and see if you can spot the pretty stepped gables. Our bike route then continues through Zuid-Kennemerland, a colourful area rich in natural beauty. In well known beach resort Zandvoort you will stay the night by the sea.For logistic reasons it's possible you will overnight in Noordwijkerhout instead of Zandvoort. The cycling distance will then be 51 km and the next day 41 km.
Today you will cycle through the Dune and Bulb Region. The windswept dunes not only protect the hinterland from the sea, but also harbour many species of dune flora and fauna. April is your best bet for visiting colourful bulb fields (daffodils, hyacinths and tulips) just behind the dunes. On the coast, check out the resorts and beaches. Once you reach Scheveningen you are almost on your destination of today, The Hague. You will be spoilt for choice of things to do.
Follow the River Schie to Delft. Delft has a historical town centre with beautiful buildings and canals. Inextricably linked to Delft are Delftware (blue and white pottery); the royal family Van Oranje-Nassau; and Johannes Vermeer, the painter. Continuing on your way, you will reach the town of Schiedam, renowned for its gin (jenever). Here is where you can find out all about the history and production of this juniper berry flavoured liquor. As the sun sets over Rotterdams modern skyline and Europes biggest port, why not go to trendy Oude Haven (Old Harbour) for an evening out? From the top of Euromast tower enjoy great views of the city and surroundings.
Modern Rotterdam offers architecture, art, port tours, a maritime museum and shops galore. The re-developed inner-city harbours are hotspots. Get your camera out for the windmills at serene Kinderdijk, a UNESCO world heritage site. The alternative route is 45 km, you will cycle directly from Kinderdijk to Gouda.
Woods, stately homes, parks, rivers, polders, lakes and marshy fens make todays scenery. Opt to stop off at a cheese dairy or visit De Haar Castle. At the end of the day, explore the heart of the lively city of Utrecht. Discover the pretty Museum Quarter and admire the beautiful canal Oude Gracht. Its wharves are unique to Utrecht and make a pleasant setting for waterside cafes.
After breakfast in your hotel, you will return home.