Netherlands is a country of bikes- the number of bikes is higher than the population of the country!
Closely linked to this is one of the not so known charms of the country- the bike routes that it has. And one of the most picturesque from them happens to start from Amsterdam.
The route goes through the Dutch Wetlands- . It takes about 45 km which can be easily done in 3.5 -5 hours.
Start from Amsterdam by getting on the Buikslotterweg ferry behind Amsterdam Central Station and go on the other side of the IJ river and then go direction Durgerdam. On the way pass the villages of Niuwedammerwijk and Scheillingouderdijk. You`ll be super surprised to see how the landscape changes so dramatically just a few kilometers away from Amsterdam! Make sure you stop for a break at the Oude Taveerne in Durgerdam which offers beautiful views of the water, authentic sailor atmosphere and great mussles.
After you reach Durgerdam go direction Monnickendam through the road called Uitdammerdijk. Here you will be on a dike road right next to the water, will pass through bird breeding areas and will enjoy beautiful water views. You will be ciclying right along the water watching the seagulls and the boats- it`s a beautfull trip which you won`t forget.
If you need a break once you reach Monnickendam make a stop at the beach pavilion – another nice place to take a break and enjoy the Dutch coutry side.
From Monnickendam go to Zuiderwoude and then continue to Broek inWaterland then cycle along the south bank of the Broekervaart canal towards Het Schouw from where head can back to the ferry.
And some useful tips for your trip:
- If you don`t have a bike you can rent one from Central Station Amsterdam. A good option is the OV fiets- http://www.ns.nl/en/door-to-door/ov-fiets
- Make sure you bring a scarf/body warmer/umbrella- Dutch weather can be quite unpredictable
- Don`t forget your camera- there will be plenty of opportunities to take great pictures!
And now- enjoy the gallery! 🙂
