Upon arrival into Utrecht, enjoy the city centre or explore the woodlands that surround the River Kromme Rijn.
Today’s route sees you cross vast polders and ride past typically Dutch windmills, old farm houses and lush meadows. As you head south, you will reach the glass town of Leerdam, a meeting place for glassblowers from many countries who demonstrate their craft. After Leerdam you will continue following the river Linge towards Gorinchem where you finish your day.
Today you will ride toward the UNESCO world heritage site of Kinderdijk. The 19 windmills, which have been standing since 1740, are a beautiful sight and you can explore the history of this quiet place.
Your destination today is Gouda, famous for its cheese. The city’s other speciality is syrup waffles so reward yourself with one of these after a day on the bike. If possible, plan your trip so that you can go to the traditional Thursday morning cheese market.
You will head past the river Vlist to the town of Oudewater. A few centuries ago, people suspected of being a witch were weighed here. You can visit the famous 16th Century Weighhouse and find out more about this old-fashioned tradition.
Oudewater is also known for storks, so keep your eyes open along the way for these beautiful birds. Your ride will end in Woerden, made popular by the town’s celebrated cheese market on a Saturday.
Today’s landscape is typically Holland. You will pass by rivers, polders, lakes and woods. The last part will take you along the water, through Breukelen, to your hotel. At the end of your day you have time to explore Utrecht. In the heart of the inner city lies the old canal and its quaysides, thronging with waterside cafes that are unique to Utrecht.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before departing for your homeward travel.
It’s not called the lowlands for nothing as half the country is less than a metre above sea level. You can be assured of almost entirely flat riding from place to place and the experience of crossing the Dutch polders; land reclaimed from the sea that provides the Netherlands with such fertile land.