The Dutch are renowned for their love of cycling, a tradition almost as iconic as their world-famous cheese and distinctive wooden shoes. When it comes to exploring the picturesque Low Lands, there’s no better way than taking to the open road on your very own (rented) bicycle!
Holland’s extensive network of separated bike paths lining virtually every street makes cycling in this region an absolute delight. Thanks to these well-maintained pathways, pedaling your way through the Dutch landscape is a breeze.
Cruise Port IJmuiden’s prime location, nestled close to historic cities and breathtaking nature parks, positions you perfectly for an exciting day of cycling exploration. Unfortunately, bike rentals aren’t available directly at the terminals (due to the irregular arrival of cruise ships), but you can easily prearrange a bike rental to have your trusty two-wheeler delivered right next to your cruise ship.
For a hassle-free experience, look no further than Dutch Pedelec Tours, a renowned and dependable rental company offering many options, from traditional bicycles to state-of-the-art electric bikes, also known as pedelecs. They cater to both group enthusiasts with guided tours available in various languages and individual renters. Another option is to rent a bike at the main railway station in Haarlem, a charming city within easy reach of Cruise Port IJmuiden via convenient public buses. The journey from both terminals to Haarlem typically takes around 35 one way.
If you’re not quite up for a solo ride and prefer guided experiences, some cruise lines offer fantastic bike tours complete with a knowledgeable guide and, of course, a bike. Consider booking one of these tours for added convenience and camaraderie during your exploration.
For those who yearn to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, we highly recommend visiting the nearby National Park Zuid-Kennemerland, one of the 21 national parks in the Netherlands. Here, many short and long walking and biking trails wind through a diverse landscape of lush forests and undulating dunes. The varying terrain height adds an extra layer of adventure, and the rewards are stunning panoramic views from atop the dunes. Along your journey, you’ll encounter numerous opportunities to pause, whether at one of the charming estates, the “Duincafé” at the Visitors’ Centre, or one of the inviting picnic tables dotting the paths.
Now, if you’ve ever dreamed of cycling through the enchanting city of Amsterdam, the answer is a resounding “Yes, you can.” However, it’s important to note that this may not be the best idea for inexperienced cyclists. Amsterdam’s inner city is often bustling with heavy traffic, and the locals tend to follow their own unique traffic rules. They’re known to cross your path in rather unconventional ways. In this case, opting for a scenic canal cruise might be safer and more enjoyable!
The beauty of cycling in most parts of Holland is that you don’t need to be a hardcore rider with a fancy bike to fit right in. With such a significant portion of the population regularly pedaling around, you can effortlessly hop on a bike and become one with the local cycling culture.”