ADULT ONLY

4.83 (85 reviews)

Netherlands Biking Adventure

  • 7 Days
  • 18 People Max

    5 - 18 guests

  • Activity Level 2
    • Activity Level 2

      On the Move

      Sure, I own some hiking boots, they're even worn in, but they don't go on long trips. I like my creature comforts and I like to give a range of activities a go.

    Read more about the Active Range

  • Trip Start: Amsterdam
  • Trip End: Amsterdam
holland biking adventure tour

Netherlands tulip fields, picturesque windmills, charming villages and meadows full of life are yours to explore on our Netherlands Biking Adventure.

There's only one way to truly grasp the endless beauty and warm culture of the Netherlands, and that's by joining a Holland biking adventure tour. Starting and finishing in Amsterdam, two expert local guides will lead the way as you bike through some of the most picturesque landscapes your imagination could muster up. From the tulip fields of Keukenhof to the Venice of the North, Giethoorn, each day brings you on fascinating trails that'll leave you happily exhausted. Along the way, dine on traditional Dutch cuisine and stay in accommodations hand-picked for their charm and endless views. If you're ready for a biking trip that'll rival all others, hop aboard our 7-day Holland biking adventure tour.

Trip Highlights

Haarlem

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Schermerhorn canals

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Tulip fields (Spring)

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Lake IJsselmeer to Hindeloopen

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Giethoorn, Venice of the North

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Chateau de Havixhorst

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Netherlands Biking Adventure ~ Itinerary

Trip Start: Amsterdam Trip End: Amsterdam
  • Day 1Arrive in Amsterdam, cycle near Haarlem and along the coast

  • Day 2Bike from De Rijp to Enkhuizen, visit a windmill

  • Day 3Ferry to Stavoren, cycle along lake Ijsselmeer

  • Day 4Cycle through the canal-laced village of Giethoorn

  • Day 5Visit a bird sanctuary, cycle through dreamy hamlets to Exloo

  • Day 6Ride through moors to the village of Eext, visit Emmen outdoor market

  • Day 7Transfer to Amsterdam, depart home

  • Day 1

    Arrive in Amsterdam, cycle near Haarlem and along the coast

    We meet in the morning in Amsterdam. After a short transfer out of town, start biking near Haarlem, and get ready for an incredible bike ride along the coast. Manicured bike paths lead the way through cresting dunes and lively beach resorts, then wind through some of the loveliest neighborhoods in all of Holland. There’s also the possibility to visit the Keukenhof tulip fields in the spring. Tonight, enjoy a special welcome dinner with the rest of the group.

    Hotel Lion d'Or, Amsterdam (Dinner)

    Biking: Up to 46.6 kilometers (up to 29 miles), easy

  • Day 2

    Bike from De Rijp to Enkhuizen, visit a windmill

    Start biking in De Rijp, a colorful town with green gabled houses and a long whaling heritage. After visiting a working windmill, cycle over canals and wooden drawbridges to seafaring towns like Schermerhorn and Hoorn. For lunch, enjoy local fare at a cafe in Hoorn. Spend tonight near the picture-perfect harbor of Enkhuizen.

    Hotel Suydersee, Enkhuizen (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Biking: Up to 50 kilometers (up to 31 miles), easy

  • Day 3

    Ferry to Stavoren, cycle along lake Ijsselmeer

    Board the ferry to Stavoren, then bicycle along Lake IJsselmeer on small roads and dikes to the old port of Hindeloopen. It’s the perfect chance to learn a bit of history and visit charming towns steeped in tradition. Settle for the night overlooking the yachts of Lemmer. Take advantage of a night on your own to explore the town center.

    Hotel Iselmar, Lemmer (Breakfast)

    Biking: Up to 63 kilometers (up to 39 miles), easy

  • Day 4

    Cycle through the canal-laced village of Giethoorn

    Today’s carefree bike ride leads through forests and watery landscapes highlighted by a visit to Giethoorn. Known as the Venice of Holland, it is a wonderful canal-laced village with thatched houses and humpback bridges. This evening we’ll stay at the grand Kasteel de Havixhorst.

    Chateau De Havixhorst, Staphorst (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Biking: Up to 80 kilometers (up to 50 miles), easy

  • Day 5

    Visit a bird sanctuary, cycle through dreamy hamlets to Exloo

    Start the day greeting hundreds of storks and peacocks at a bird sanctuary on the grounds of your hotel. Then spin along forested bicycle paths through dreamy hamlets tucked deep in the woods. Visit the craft village in Orvelte before continuing on to peaceful Exloo and our cozy hotel, and later a dinner of savory Dutch pancakes.

    Hotel De Hunzebergen, Exloo (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Biking: Up to 64 kilometers (up to 40 miles), easy

  • Day 6

    Ride through moors to the village of Eext, visit Emmen outdoor market

    Today’s ride travels on dramatic moors dappled with purple heather and dotted with prehistoric stone beds. Later, head over to the outdoor market in Emmen and visit its outstanding, prize-winning zoo. Then follow fertile pastures and dense woodlands to the thatched village of Eext. Back in Exloo, share memories of the trip as everyone enjoy a farewell dinner together.

    Hotel De Hunzebergen, Exloo (Breakfast, Dinner)

    Biking: Up to 43 kilometers (up to 27 miles), easy

  • Day 7

    Transfer to Amsterdam, depart home

    Enjoy breakfast before your guide transfers you to Amsterdam for your departure home. The two-and-a-half-hour shuttle will give you plenty of time to relax and reflect on your trip before heading home.

    No Accommodation (Breakfast)

    Notes: *Trip itineraries are subject to change without notice due to road, weather and other factors outside of our control, for the safety and enjoyment of our guests, as deemed necessary and appropriate.

Netherlands Biking Adventure Departure Dates

  • Upcoming
  • 3 months
  • 6 months
  • 1 year
USD $3999/per adult
2 Jul 2023
2023
2 Jul8 Jul
Departure Filling Up Filling Up
* GUARANTEED DEPARTURE * 10% OFF
6 Aug 2023
2023
6 Aug12 Aug
Departure Almost Full Almost Full
* GUARANTEED DEPARTURE *
17 Sep 2023
2023
17 Sep23 Sep
Departure Open Open
10% OFF
7 Apr 2024
2024
7 Apr13 Apr
Departure Open Open
14 Apr 2024
2024
14 Apr20 Apr
Departure Open Open
21 Apr 2024
2024
21 Apr27 Apr
Departure Open Open
28 Apr 2024
2024
28 Apr4 May
Departure Open Open
9 Jun 2024
2024
9 Jun15 Jun
Departure Open Open
30 Jun 2024
2024
30 Jun6 Jul
Departure Open Open
4 Aug 2024
2024
4 Aug10 Aug
Departure Open Open
15 Sep 2024
2024
15 Sep21 Sep
Departure Open Open

Included

  • Experienced guides with exceptional local knowledge 
  • 7:1 guest-to-guide ratio 
  • Exemplary pre-trip customer care service available to answer questions 
  • Travel Wallet: a resource for everything you need to know about your trip in one secure space!
  • All accommodation for the duration of your trip 
  • Most meals (except where indicated, so you can experience local cuisine independently!) 
  • Unlimited snacks 
  • All activities described in the itinerary 
  • All necessary equipment (well-maintained and safe) for activities 
  • Specially curated tour ‘Wow’ moments throughout your trip 
  • All ground transportation and cable cars from trip start to end 

Not Included

  • International/Domestic Flights and transfers to start/end point 
  • Optional additional activities 
  • Travel insurance 
  • Alcoholic beverages  
  • Additional equipment available to rent as per your itinerary
  • Gratuities for your guides at the end of your fabulous trip 

Reviews from our Netherlands Biking Adventure

view all

Netherlands Biking Adventure - April 2023

Amazing Trip

"The bicycling routes were perfectly curated. Our rides included beaches, forests, farms, quaint villages, windmills,… read more

"The bicycling routes were perfectly curated. Our rides included beaches, forests, farms, quaint villages, windmills, canals, dikes, and several surprising sights along the way. We biked a good amount but we spent even more time enjoying meals, breaks, and sight-seeing.

The guides, hotels, meals, and special touches all exceeded expectations. The Dutch people are fantastic and their country is beautiful. Each day was different and very enjoyable. read less

5 Stars (82 reviews)

Kathy,

Netherlands Biking Adventure - April 2023

Surprising Trip in The Netherlands

"My trip with Active Adventures truly exceeded my expectations. I felt immersed in the biking… read more

"My trip with Active Adventures truly exceeded my expectations. I felt immersed in the biking culture of The Netherlands during my visit and pampered every day of the tour. From the hotel choices to the biking routes, you can see that the company cares about the comfort of its guests. I’d book with the company again without hesitation! read less

5 Stars (82 reviews)

Camie,

Netherlands Biking Adventure - April 2023

Fabulous trip through the Netherlands

"This trip exceeded my expectations. Each day was carefully planned out by our knowledgeable… read more

"This trip exceeded my expectations. Each day was carefully planned out by our knowledgeable guides. The accommodations were above average, at times exceptional, and we were surprised with fine dining with wine and cheese tastings, drinks included as part of the package price. Being in a small group of 8 riders and two guides, we bonded interpersonally over a span of 7 days. Guides told us many wonderful stories about their cycling adventures and went out of their way to accommodate our individual needs. I highly recommend this trip. read less

5 Stars (82 reviews)

Elizabeth,

Netherlands Biking Adventure - April 2023

Netherlands 2023

"The trip was professionally run. We had challenges on the trip with strong headwinds,… read more

"The trip was professionally run. We had challenges on the trip with strong headwinds, light to heavy rain and cold temperatures. the guides handled these well, he group giving appropriate breaks to handle these conditions when they occurred. The group was kept together and was managed to offer both desires for challenging segments as well as less challenging ones.

The ride itself was interesting and filled with new experiences. read less

4 Stars (82 reviews)

John,

Netherlands Biking Adventure - April 2023

Netherlands Biking Adventure

"Beyond expectations! A trip for a lifetime! The bicycling, cultural and epicurean experiences… read more

"Beyond expectations! A trip for a lifetime! The bicycling, cultural and epicurean experiences far exceeded the itinerary. The guides, Tom and Peter, were equally outstanding as they were our ambassadors to this life changing experience; their personable characters, genuine and authentic demeanors, knowledge based on all platforms, and gentle persona enhanced the overall encounters on this journey. The entire experience was a fulfillment. read less

5 Stars (82 reviews)

William,

Netherlands Biking Adventure - April 2023

Netherlands Bike Tour

"Fantastic way to experience the smaller cities, towns and landscape of the Netherlands. While the… read more

"Fantastic way to experience the smaller cities, towns and landscape of the Netherlands. While the scenery is lovely, the outstanding part of the trip is the experienced, dedicated, knowledgeable and hard-working guides. Peter and Thomas are a great pair and clearly love their country and their long time occupations as guides. My first but not my last trip with Active Adventures! read less

5 Stars (82 reviews)

Bradford,

Netherlands Biking Adventure - April 2023

Netherlands Biking Trip

"The combination of daily biking trips, great meals, and enjoyable conversation made for an exceptional… read more

"The combination of daily biking trips, great meals, and enjoyable conversation made for an exceptional vacation. The trip was thoughtfully organized and executed perfectly. The two guides were knowledgeable and fun travel companions. Kudos to Active Adventures. read less

5 Stars (82 reviews)

Roger,

Netherlands Biking Adventure - April 2023

Biking thru Netherlands

"Excellent bike trip and experience!

I was very impressed by Active Adventures. The guides, bicycles, support,… read more

"Excellent bike trip and experience!

I was very impressed by Active Adventures. The guides, bicycles, support, bike paths, scenery, history and cultural backgrounds, accommodations and food were all first class. We were guided by Tom Litjens and Peter van Glabbeek. Both of these men were excellent guides; very friendly, personable, knowledgeable and fun. It was a pleasure to meet them. We had 8 riders in our group and it was a good size to get to know everyone.

Bikes: Cannondale, all great quality, shifted very well, no mechanical issues, with pannier with side bag storage, as well as front handlebar storage. Bikes were lined up ready to ride every morning; storage of the bikes in the evening was secured by Tom and Peter.

Daily directions (extremely concise and detailed) and briefings were provided for self guided experience, although we chose to remain as a single group for the most part. Points of interest, historical and cultural attractions were replete along the daily routes. I especially enjoyed the Stork Restoration Center.

Snacks/water were available on periodic stops along the routes daily.

Meals as provided were all excellent and provided opportunities to try many types of food. My wife is a vegetarian and there was always consideration to accommodate her needs. (I think only one meal was on our own.) We would constantly mix up seating for the opportunity to meet/speak with the guides and members of the group.

Lodging/service was excellent throughout with the various hotels and a chateau lodge.

The bike path infrastructure in the Netherlands is the best that I have experienced (I have ridden in France, Italy, Germany, Spain, Austria, Norway, and extensively in the US). The paths took us along tulip fields, wooded/forested areas, canals, towns, windmills, wind turbines, villages, dams (dikes), open fields, etc.

Support: although we had excellent weather, we did face some strong winds. Some of the riders were transferred by van for short periods to provide a rest. It was comforting to know that support was available,able in the event of severe rain/wind or mechanical issue- No one had a mechanical issue.
read less

5 Stars (82 reviews)

John,

Netherlands Biking Adventure - April 2023

Attention to details

"Our April 15-22, 2023 biking adventure was almost perfect: the perfect temperature to bike (no… read more

"Our April 15-22, 2023 biking adventure was almost perfect: the perfect temperature to bike (no sweating), mostly sunny, perfect tulip time, great traveling group (just 4 couples and two amazing guides), history, landscape, wildlife, exquisite food, and a challenging enough ride to enjoy a celebratory beer and great night's sleep! read less

5 Stars (82 reviews)

Nan,

Netherlands Biking Adventure - April 2022

Netherlands Biking Adventure

"The itinerary and guides were wonderful! Well planned bike rides along beautiful trails-we saw tulips,… read more

"The itinerary and guides were wonderful! Well planned bike rides along beautiful trails-we saw tulips, farms, rode along dikes next to a huge lake, saw small towns and got a close-up look at homes and villages. Peter and Ben were gracious, funny, smart and went out of their way to make an unforgettable experience. read less

5 Stars (82 reviews)

Mary,

Netherlands Biking Adventure - April 2022

Netherlands Biking Adventure

"The guides were fantastic. The scenery and things we did, all of it was great.… read more

"The guides were fantastic. The scenery and things we did, all of it was great. Our group got along without any friction. The food was outstanding. My first time in Europe, it was a blast! read less

5 Stars (82 reviews)

Ammon,

Netherlands Biking Adventure - April 2019

Netherlands Biking Adventure

" read more

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5 Stars (82 reviews)

Janice,

Netherlands Biking Adventure - April 2019

Netherlands Biking Adventure

"AMAZING! read more

"AMAZING! read less

5 Stars (82 reviews)

Janice,

Netherlands Biking Adventure - April 2019

Netherlands Biking Adventure

" read more

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5 Stars (82 reviews)

Ellen,

Netherlands Biking Adventure - August 2018

Netherlands Biking Adventure

"Joeri Willemese & Rob were great guides, humorous and most personable - we loved them. read more

"Joeri Willemese & Rob were great guides, humorous and most personable - we loved them. read less

5 Stars (82 reviews)

Jon,

Netherlands Biking Adventure - August 2018

Netherlands Biking Adventure

"It was great! read more

"It was great! read less

5 Stars (82 reviews)

Cynthia,

Netherlands Biking Adventure - April 2018

Netherlands Biking Adventure

" read more

" read less

5 Stars (82 reviews)

Patty,

Netherlands Biking Adventure - April 2018

Netherlands Biking Adventure

" read more

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5 Stars (82 reviews)

Carol,

Netherlands Biking Adventure - May 2017

Netherlands Biking Adventure

" read more

" read less

5 Stars (82 reviews)

Patti,

Netherlands Biking Adventure - May 2017

Netherlands Biking Adventure

" read more

" read less

5 Stars (82 reviews)

Donna,

Interactive Trip Map: Click on the map icons to read details for each day

Austin PIF 2

Take 10% off the trip price when you book a trip and pay in full.

By paying in full we are able to pass on savings to our guests, but please note that by opting for this payment plan, your booking becomes non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable. 

We highly recommend that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. We recommend Redpoint Insurance – you can find details here.

T+Cs Apply.

BOOKING CONDITIONS

Your Netherlands Guides

Useful Info

Where does the trip start?

On the first morning of the trip we'll pick you up at the Sir Albert Hotel at 8:30am. You are welcome to book your pre-trip stay at this hotel directly or any other hotel in Amsterdam, though you must make your own way to this pick-up point at the pre-designated time.

Where does the trip end?

Your trip ends with a drop-off at either the Amsterdam Airport in time for flights below, Amsterdam train station or a hotel of your choice in Central Amsterdam around 12:30pm.

What flights would you recommend?

Arrival: We recommend arriving in Amsterdam at least the day before your trip starts. Many guests like to arrive a day or two early to accommodate potential flight delays and/or explore the host city prior to your trip start.

Departure: Flying out on the last day of the trip, we recommend departing from Amsterdam after 2pm. Earlier flight times will require a separate transfer booked at your own expense.

How do rooming arrangements work?

Trip prices are based on shared arrangements (typically two guests per room), unless otherwise stated. For solo travelers, we’ll pair you with another person of the same gender to share rooms and if there’s no one suitable to share with, there’s no forced single supplement. However, if you specifically request your own rooms, you can opt to pay the single supplement. Solo travelers who book within 90 days of departure, where there are no other solo travelers willing to share, will be required to pay the single supplement. 

For Family Vacation bookings, families consisting of four guests traveling with children aged 17 and under will be automatically assigned one shared room. However, the following alternative rooming allocations are available:

  • Families consisting of four guests with all children aged 13 and above are welcome to opt for additional rooms as per advertised double occupancy adult rates.
  • Families consisting of four guests with at least one child aged 12 and under are automatically assigned a shared room. However, families can opt to pay the adult rates for all guests in their family to have an additional room.
  • The same principles apply for families consisting of more than four guests.

Rooming preferences are subject to availability and must be communicated in writing at time of booking. Automatic assignments as per this policy will be applied in the absence of any specification provided by guests. Any request for additional rooms during trips will be at guests’ own expense and subject to rates made available by the accommodation provider at the time. All minors (guests aged 17 and under) must be accompanied by at least one adult.

Is tipping expected in Europe?

Tipping is not expected in Europe however you might want to tip a little extra if you feel someone gave really fantastic service, but it's not really necessary. Many of our people also choose to tip their Active Adventures Europe trip leaders and local guides and we recommend USD$20 per day, per guest, per Trip Leader/guide.

Why Travel With Us

11

Experience adventure the way you want

You’ll be inspired and exhilarated, enjoying mind-blowing scenery on foot, in a sea kayak, or by bike - all at your own pace. Get ready for the trip of a lifetime.

benefits awards

Crafting award-winning trips for decades - the Kiwi way

We're proud of our Kiwi roots and you’ll love our professional, warm and relaxed style of hosting. Plus, we’re always here to help with planning, travel, bookings... even hiking boot recommendations!

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Every detail covered, to maximise your time

As soon as your trip starts, we've got everything covered – top notch meals, comfortable transport, superb accommodation, amazing guides and INCREDIBLE service.

benefit group travel

Group travel for those who aren’t ‘group travellers’

With our small groups of typically no more than 14 (up to 18 max), you'll get to know our team, your fellow travellers, and have the flexibility and freedom to do as much (or as little!) as you like. It’s all about going at your own pace.

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Explore hidden gems through our expert local guides

All our carefully selected guides are highly experienced and have deep personal connections to nature and culture. You’ll enjoy a special experience, authentic local knowledge and an adventure like no other.

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4.85 out of 5 from 6492 reviews. That’s pretty solid.

We could hang around all day telling you how wonderful our trips are... but the best people to hear it from are our guests themselves.

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Netherlands Biking Adventure