Bruges to Amsterdam Cycling

Arrive early in Bruges and we wander its enchanting cobbled streets and squares, admire medieval facades beside tranquil canals and soak up the city’s charming ambience. Overnight Dukes Hotel Academie 4*, Bruges.

Leaving Bruges, we cycle through the gentle landscapes of West Flanders to the coast at Knokke-Heist, then follow the shoreline. Vast sandy beaches tempt regular pauses – you may take a refreshing dip if you wish. A ferry carries us to Zeeland and we finish in the maritime town of Vlissingen – you can watch the sun set on an evening stroll along the sea promenade. Overnight Hotel de Timmerfabiek 4*, Vlissingen.

We spend the day in Zeeland, where rich nature and long history impress at every turn. Beautiful beaches with crystal clear water often line our route. Culinary treats abound – you can sample fresh mussels and crab – and art and culture enthusiasts will find numerous museums. In Zierikzee, there are over 500 monuments to admire and plenty of small boutiques for shopping. Overnight Boutique Hotel Zeeuws-Meisje 3*, Zierikzee.

The first stretch leads us through Zeeland again before we cross into North Brabant. Opportunities for swimming are plentiful today, with beaches, sunshine and delicious food around many corners. We overnight in Willemstad, a historic fortress town that has hardly changed since 1585. Overnight Hotel Mauritz 3*, Willemstad.

Today’s ride takes us to De Biesbosch National Park – a unique labyrinth of small rivers and streams stretching over 8,000 hectares. In this watery realm we can observe numerous bird species and beavers, and the tranquillity of untouched nature invites us to slow down. We then contrast this with Dordrecht, Holland’s oldest city, where there are over 1,000 monuments and lively alleys in the city centre. Overnight Stadshotel Steegoversloot 3*, Dordrecht.

We discover the impressive windmills of Kinderdijk – 19 iconic structures among the most photographed in Holland. In the three museum windmills we learn about their origins while historic drawbridges and picturesque streams frame a water-rich landscape. Our stage ends in Gouda, famed for its cheese – you should also try the syrup waffles – and there are many historic buildings to visit in the city centre. Overnight Best Western Plus City 4*, Gouda.

On our final cycling stage, we roam through the Green Heart of the Netherlands, alternating between towns and picturesque villages. We encounter everything so typical of Holland – cheese, windmills, grazing cows, historic country estates and quaint farms where old craftsmanship still prevails. Our destination is Amsterdam, a city impossible to fully explore in one evening – you might enjoy a first wander before tomorrow’s departure. Overnight Westcord Fashion Hotel 4*, Amsterdam.

After breakfast, we wave goodbye to Amsterdam.