Highlights
- Explore the natural beauty of Weerribben-Wieden National Park
- Pedal through amazing wetland landscapes
- Sample traditional Dutch candy in riverside Zwolle
- Paddle along waterways on a self-guided canoe tour
- Stay overnight in small charming hotels and guesthouses
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Explore the City of Zwolle | Zwolle |
| Day 2 | Ride Through the Countryside to Sint Jansklooster | Sint Jansklooster |
| Day 3 | Cycle to Kalenberg & Canoe in the Wetlands | Kalenberg |
| Day 4 | Pedal to Giethoorn & Tour the Village | Giethoorn |
| Day 5 | Depart Amsterdam - End of Trip |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Explore the City of Zwolle
Welcome to the Netherlands! From Amsterdam, you will take a train to Zwolle, a charming city located on the banks of the IJssel River. After checking into your hotel and having lunch, explore the city center and its star-shaped canal system surrounded by green parks.
Museum de Fundatie, with its remarkable egg-shaped roof, is a must for art lovers. Stop into Zwolse Balletjeshuis, a traditional candy shop, and stock up on some sweets for your cycling trip tomorrow. Have a relaxing dinner in one of Zwolle's many excellent restaurants before getting some rest at your hotel.
Day 2: Ride Through the Countryside to Sint Jansklooster
Today you will start your cycling adventure. E-bikes will be delivered to your hotel, and from there you will start cycling. Quiet bicycle lanes will lead you through forested areas along the Black Water River. Just after passing the peaceful Bergklooster Cemetery, you will cross the Vecht River by cable ferry. The Haersterveer is the last active cable ferry in the Netherlands, operated by volunteers between May and October.
On the other side of the shore, continue north along the Vecht to the small towns of Hasselt and Zwartsluis. Soon after pedaling away from Zwartsluis, you will enter Weerribben-Wieden National Park and catch your first glimpse of the beautiful wetland area that you will explore for the next few days.
Visit the Water Tower for an amazing view over the park. Your B&B, located in an old farmhouse in Sint Jansklooster, is not far from here. (If you'd prefer to stay in a luxury hotel, you can continue to the village of Vollenhoven, just a short ride further.) Before dinner, stop into the Visitor Center to learn more about the national park's flora and fauna. You'll have the option to do a nice short hike before turning in for the evening.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 3: Cycle to Kalenberg & Canoe in the Wetlands
After a hearty breakfast, you will continue cycling to the heart of the park. The center of the small village of Kalenberg can only be reached by boat, on foot, or by bike! From here, you can explore the wetland area on a guided boat tour. Or you can rent a canoe and paddle around some of the amazing canoe routes around Kalenberg.
In the evening, after a full day of fresh air and exercise, you'll have dinner at your hotel in the village.
Day 4: Pedal to Giethoorn & Tour the Village
Today’s cycling route will take you along scenic bike lanes and show you the best the park has to offer. Passing through the small villages of Muggenbeet and Dwarsgracht, you'll finally reach the world-famous town of Giethoorn. After the tourist crowds have moved out of Giethoorn in the later afternoon, explore the village on foot or rent a boat or canoe. Then enjoy dinner in one of the town's wonderful restaurants.
Day 5: Depart Amsterdam - End of Trip
This morning, it’s time to bid farewell to the Netherlands. Head to the Amsterdam airport or train station to make your way to your next destination. Safe travels!
More Netherlands Itineraries
Looking for more inspiration for your trip to the Netherlands? Check out these other Netherlands itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.
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