IJsselmeer Loop Cycling Tour

With so much to see and do in Amsterdam, you’ll want to check into your hotel and hit the streets right away to explore. A true hub of art and culture, the progressive capital is a cyclist’s wonderland, designed to be explored by bike.

Enjoy your first evening of the tour in this magnetic city and prepare for an epic first day of cycling tomorrow.

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast this morning, then jump in the saddle and cycle towards Waterland. The enchanting landscapes of Waterland are comprised of wet meadows, swaying reeds, and ancient wooden bridges, making for a scenic ride.

Next up is Volendam, where tiny, quaint, stone houses line the narrow streets of this small fishing village. Hop off your bikes to enjoy lunch here at the “De Dijk,” a cute strip overlooking the harbour made up of shops and inviting cafes.

Continue up the coast through Edam and Hoorn, then arrive at today’s destination, Enkhuizen. The town is said to have one of Holland’s most stunning old town centers, enclosed in an impressive seventeenth-century city wall. Enjoy the rest of the day here, making sure to check out the fascinating re-created Zuiderzee village at the Zuiderzee Museum.

Today, you’ll soak up the views from the sea as you board a ferry to Stavoren, marking your crossing into the province of Friesland. Cycle the gorgeous small village of Hindeloopen, then continue through charming woodlands and gently rolling countryside to the portal town of Lemmer.

Next, you’ll navigate the peatlands of the Weeribben National Park, home to a wide range of unique flora and fauna. Continue the route to Giethoorn, known as the “Venice of the north,” where you’ll find tonight’s accommodations.

Your inland ride continues this morning as you blaze a trail to the Hanseatic city of Kampen, perched on the pretty IJssel River. Cruise through Elburg, where you can hop off your bike to explore the medieval fortress city, then continue the final leg for today, flanked by several dazzling lakes to Harderwijk.

A scenic ride to complete the loop back to Amsterdam unfolds today as you set off along the shores of the Randmeren Lakes. You'll encounter the National Heritage Landscape, Arkemheen-Eemland, along the way, taking in ancient dikes. Keep your eyes peeled for the remarkable birdlife in this preserved bird habitat.

Continue the southern shore of Lake IJssel with the salty sea breeze accompanying for the ride, then enjoy some time exploring Muiden, home to a magnificent medieval castle. From Muiden, the final stretch is short and pleasant as you prepare to cruise into the city center of Amsterdam, where you'll spend the last evening of the tour.

Amsterdam is a melting pot of various cultural cuisines. Enjoy a farewell dinner here tonight, taking full advantage of this remarkable Dutch city's dynamic dining scene.

Your tour comes to an end this morning following one final breakfast in Amsterdam. Check out of your accommodations and pack up to depart.