On the bike
The best way to explore the region is by bike. Ride through the meadows with cows and sheep, along the beautiful Markermeer, on narrow roads through picturesque villages, through vibrant cities, or past magical monuments and windmills. You’ll keep on being amazed. Wind in your hair, sun on your face, and just enjoy!
Tulips from... Westfriesland
On route.nl, you’ll find over 12,000 cycling and walking routes that you can download for free. "Machtig Mooi Westfriesland," a 53-kilometer route along the water and tulip fields, is one of our favorites!
The A is for Abbekerk.
Fancy a beautiful 44.9-kilometer journey through charming West Frisian villages? Start in the picturesque village of Abbekerk and cycle through Twisk, Westwoud, and Hoogkarspel to Medemblik. Finally, follow a fantastic route through Opperdoes.
What a top ride
The Westfriese Omringdijk cycling route is no less than 156 kilometers long and largely follows the original course of the Westfriese Omringdijk, the oldest dike in the Netherlands. If you pedal hard, you can complete it in a day. However, it’s also great fun to turn it into a multi-day trip, giving you plenty of time to visit attractions along the way. The route passes through places like Oudendijk, Ursem, and Aartswoud.
Over a week
A gem of a route! This "round IJsselmeer" takes you through the rich history of the former Zuiderzee. You cycle across large areas of reclaimed land and hydraulic engineering works. During the 440-kilometer route, you'll pass medieval trading cities, the former island of Schokland, and many charming fishing villages. The route is divided into 8 daily stages, each with a maximum of 70 kilometers.
Bike on the boat
Switch up your bike tour with a beautiful boat ride over the IJsselmeer and relax aboard. Nowhere is it easier to combine cycling and boating than in Enkhuizen. On all three ferry services departing from Enkhuizen, you can bring your bike along. Whether you're just passing through or want to spend an afternoon cycling in places like Gaasterland, the possibilities are endless. How about cycling along the IJsselmeer to Medemblik and taking the boat back? Or exploring Urk and the former island by bike?
More information
Rest stops
Ready for some coffee, tea, or a toastie?
Fresh from the farm
Cycling through West Friesland, you'll come across stalls along the road offering a variety of fresh local products. Not only is this sustainable, but you also support the local farmers, growers, and producers.
Check here for addresses
Check here for the best routes
Select a spot or junction in West Friesland and off you go, start pedaling!