Holland & Belgium Tour - Any recommendations?

neilVBufB030

Hi everyone,

I'm setting off on a little weeks tour of Holland and Belgium in the Spring so just planning things at the moment. I'm getting the ferry to Rotterdam and thinking of heading the Bruges on day 1 then through Belgium and up through Holland, taking in Amsterdam for a night out and then back home on the Ferry from Rotterdam. Probably 7 days cycling. There's 4 of us on the trip.

Just thought I'd ask of any great recommendations anybody may have. Places to stay, cycling paths to follow, beautiful scenery to take in, cafes to stop at. Could be anything.

Much appreciated

Neil

hassanizhar

That sounds like an exciting cycling tour through Holland and Belgium! Here are some recommendations for your trip:

Bruges, Belgium: It's a beautiful city with well-preserved medieval architecture. Explore the historic center, take a canal boat tour, and visit the famous Markt square and Belfry tower. There are numerous charming cafes and restaurants to enjoy Belgian cuisine.

Ghent, Belgium: This vibrant city offers a mix of history and modernity. Visit the medieval Gravensteen Castle, St. Bavo's Cathedral, and the picturesque Graslei and Korenlei waterfront. Ghent is also known for its culinary scene and cozy cafes.

Antwerp, Belgium: Known for its fashion, art, and diamonds, Antwerp has a lively atmosphere. Explore the historic city center, visit the Cathedral of Our Lady, and walk along the trendy neighborhood of Het Zuid. Don't miss the chance to try Belgian waffles and chocolates.

Kinderdijk, Netherlands: Famous for its iconic windmills, Kinderdijk is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can cycle along the windmills, learn about their history, and enjoy the scenic landscape.

Keukenhof Gardens, Netherlands: If you're visiting in spring (March to May), the Keukenhof Gardens near Lisse is a must-see. It's one of the world's largest flower gardens, showcasing millions of colorful tulips and other blooms.

Amsterdam, Netherlands: Spend a night in Amsterdam and explore its vibrant culture. Take a bike ride along the canals, visit world-class museums like the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city's cafes and restaurants.

The Hague, Netherlands: Visit the political capital of the Netherlands, known for its international institutions and beautiful coastline. Explore the Binnenhof (Dutch Parliament), visit the Mauritshuis Museum (home to Vermeer's "Girl with a Pearl Earring"), and take a stroll along the Scheveningen beach.

When it comes to cycling paths, both Holland and Belgium have extensive networks of well-maintained cycling routes. You can find detailed cycling maps and routes on the official tourism websites of the respective countries.

For accommodations, consider staying in cozy bed and breakfasts, small hotels, or even campgrounds along your route. Online travel platforms like Booking.com and Airbnb can help you find suitable options.

Remember to plan your daily cycling distances according to your fitness levels and desired pace, and allow some flexibility for unexpected discoveries along the way. Have a fantastic cycling tour, enjoy the beautiful scenery, and make lasting memories!

durhamwasp

If you like cycling and want to take in some the 'race roads' and the nice towns nearby, i'd recommend including Oudenaarde and Valkenburg