Holland Family Cycling Tour: Beaches, Dunes, and Cities

A world of fun awaits you in Haarlem, where your family cycling adventure begins. Check into your hostel, located on the city's outskirts right next to the lovely Schoterbos Park. The park boasts community gardens and a beehive exhibition, perfect for the kids!

Once settled into your accommodations, take a stroll to explore the historic center of Haarlem, where you'll find several fascinating museums perfect for all ages.

A beautiful ride awaits the whole family today as you set out on your bikes to enjoy a scenic loop from Haarlem. Pedalling towards the coast this morning, you’ll spot the dunes before the sea and the tall sea grass swaying in the wind. Hop off your bikes on the sandy shores to hunt for seashells or build a fortress in the sand. The loop will take you through several pretty towns today, including Overveen, Zandvoort, and Bloemendaal.

Continue the loop to return to Haarlem and enjoy the evening at your leisure.

Today’s enchanting ride to Noordwijk will be a highlight of the tour. A mix of enchanting woods and soft dunes pave the way to Zandvoort, where you can hop off your bikes to explore the stunning seaside resort.

Back on the bike, continue to trace the coastline to Noordwijk, where you’ll find your next hostel perched at the edge of pretty woodlands and dunes.

What kid doesn’t love space? Today, the whole family can embark on an exciting excursion to the fabulous Noordwijk Space Expo. A world of astronauts, satellites, and rocket ships awaits your discovery at this interactive expo where fun and learning go hand in hand.

Alternatively, head out on a scenic ride through the countryside that surrounds Noordwijk. If you happen to be travelling in April or May, you’ll be able to take in the mesmerizing tulip fields in full bloom—a remarkable sight!

In the afternoon, stroll down to the beach for a swim or post up on the sand for a family picnic. Whatever you get up to in Noordwijk, you’re sure to enjoy this charming seaside town.

Enjoy some final moments in Noordwijk this morning, then pack up after breakfast for the marvellous ride to the highly anticipated capital, Amsterdam. With the whole family in tow, you’ll navigate the Amsterdamse Bos woods as the pretty banks of the River Amstel guide you to the city.

For those cycling with young children, there’s an option to ride to Nieuw Vennep train station, where you can catch the train to Amsterdam Central Station and then enjoy a short ride to your accommodation.

You’ll find your next Stay Okay hostel just as delightful as those visited thus far, tucked away in a quiet eastern neighbourhood of the city, just a 15-minute ride to the hustle and bustle of downtown. Once settled at the hostel, head out to explore the intricate maze of canals and lush green parks. It won’t take long to discover that Amsterdam was made for exploring by bike.

Today’s itinerary gives you an entire day dedicated to exploring beautiful Amsterdam, which you got a taste of yesterday. Still, with so much to explore, you’ll fill another day easily.

Delve into the heart of the city today, exploring its vibrant neighbourhoods and waterfront jewels. Perhaps check out one of the city’s famous museums, like Rijksmuseum, where you’ll uncover Rembrandt’s famous painting, “The Night Watch.” Or ride to Oosterdok, where you’ll revel in the views of a magnificent 17th-century sailing ship replica.

The options here are endless, and you’ll discover infinite reasons to fall in love with this spectacular city.

Your final day of cycling has arrived, so be sure to savour every moment of today’s journey. This morning, you’ll leave the buzz of the city behind as you cruise into the peaceful countryside to the gorgeous village of Spaarndam. Admire the unique village houses that sit atop an ancient dam spanning the River Spaarne and take in Europe’s oldest functioning shipping lock, built in 1280.

Continue the route to Haarlem, where you’ll enjoy another night at the Stay Okay Hostel. Enjoy the last evening of the tour, reminiscing on the magical memories made in the last week.

This morning, your tour comes to an end. Enjoy a final breakfast in Haarlem, then pack up to head home.