Rotterdam Cycling Holiday

Rotterdam and its surroundings are a paradise for cycling enthusiasts. Whether you’re admiring the city’s stunning architecture, enjoying a refreshing ride along the Rotte or Nieuwe Maas rivers, or exploring the renowned Rotterdam port, there’s a biking experience to suit every interest.

Explore Rotterdam, a city renowned for its striking modern architecture and bustling harbours. The contemporary city centre sharply contrasts with the historic charm of Delfshaven. Following a bike-friendly route, you'll pass by many of Rotterdam's must-see sights, including the iconic Euromast, Erasmus Bridge, and the vibrant Markthal. It's the perfect way to experience the highlights of Rotterdam in just one day.

The tour begins at Rotterdam Central Station, offering convenient access with parking and bike rental options (check our website for a list of bike rental providers). However, you can start the tour wherever suits you best, as bike rentals are available throughout the city. At only 16 km, the route allows plenty of time to take in the sights at your leisure. For a more in-depth visit to a museum or attraction, we recommend dedicating another day to fully explore.

This scenic route guides you from the historic charm of Delft to the serene polders and wetlands of the Midden-Delfland region, a peaceful rural landscape framed by the skylines of Delft, Rotterdam, and The Hague. The highlight of the journey is the picturesque historic centre of Delft, where visitors can experience the Royal Delft Museum and see first-hand the exquisite 17th century Delft Blue craft.

Pedal along the edge of the Westland region's iconic greenhouses to the charming village of Schipluiden. From there, follow the path along the former steam tram dyke to the quaint village of Maasland. Continue through the small town of Maassluis, leading to the tranquil Vlietlanden nature reserve. The route brings you back to Delft along the canal Delftse Schie, re-entering the city through the Oostpoort, the last surviving city gate, into its enchanting historic centre.

This route takes you along the scenic River Lek, a defining feature of the flat polder landscape. Dotted with historic windmills built to pump excess water from the polders, which lie 1.5 meters below sea level, the area showcases the ingenuity of Dutch water management. The highlight of the journey is the iconic 19 windmills of Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that draws visitors from around the globe.

Starting at Kinderdijk, take the ferry across the river and follow the southern bank of the Lek to the ferry at Bergstoep. After crossing back to the northern bank, you'll arrive in the charming fortress town of Schoonhoven, renowned for its silverware. From here, a ferry returns you to the southern side of the river. The route continues through the picturesque fortress town of Nieuwpoort and the stork-filled Het Liesvelt village in Groot Ammers, before leading you back through the Alblasserwaard grasslands to the magnificent windmills at Kinderdijk.

After one final, satisfying buffet breakfast at the hotel, it’s time to bid farewell to your cycling adventure. As your holiday comes to an end, you’ll head home with wonderful memories of the scenic routes, historical towns, and unforgettable experiences you've had along the way.