The Friesland by bike between Leeuwarden and Harlingen
Friesland, located in the north of the Netherlands, is one of its oldest regions. In this part of Holland you will find the indications in 2 languages: Frisian and Dutch.
Completely flat cycle route inland through the beautiful Frisian countryside.
Points of interest of the stay:
- Leeuwarden
- The lake of Ijssel
- Bolsward, Harlingen and Dokkum
- Traditional canals and mills
Day 1- Arrival in Leeuwarden
Historic city and capital of Friesland with its famous canals, red brick and green pastures, you will see a typically Dutch landscape. Discover the bridges, the city center, the Fries Museum and the Princessehof Ceramics Museum during your stay in Leeuwarden.
Overnight in Leeuwarden.
Day 2 - Leeuwarden to Sneek 45 km
Pick up the bikes and set off for your first day on the legendary Dutch cycle paths. Sneek, a historic town, was once surrounded by water canals and fortifications. Admire the center of the city, the Martini Church, the small bridges that span the canals and the maritime activity.
Overnight in Sneek.
Day 3 - Sneek to Balk 50 km
This stage guides you to the town of Balk, located near the Ijsselmer (Ijssel lake). The route passes through Sloten, the smallest town along the 11 towns route. Your cycling day ends in Balk, which offers a beautiful view of the Frisian landscape and the charming surrounding villages.
Overnight in Balk.
Day 4 - Balk to Bolsward 51 or 58 km
The small town of Bolsward is known in the Netherlands for its picturesque streets. You can't miss Stavoren, nowadays very well known among water sports enthusiasts, and Workum. In the old days, all these towns around the lake (Ijsselmeer) had a great trade around fishing. There are still traces of this splendid period with beautiful period houses.
Overnight in Bolsward.
Day 5 - Bolsward to Harlingen/Franeker 30 to 45 km
The cycling trip in the Netherlands continues towards Makkum, a village famous for its pottery. The route continues towards Franeker, in Frisian Frjentsjer (very difficult to pronounce and the Dutch are very amused by our attempts), a village that is home to one of the oldest universities in the Netherlands, the University of Friesland. You can also see the oldest planetarium in Europe still in operation.
Overnight in Franeker or Harlingen.
Day 6 - Harlingen/Franeker to Dokkum 48 to 75 km
Dokkum has preserved its architectural heritage with its restored fortifications and ramparts. Add to this some canals and the traditional Dutch mills. You will then understand that this is a region to fall in love with.
Overnight in Dokkum.
Day 7 - Dokkum to Leeuwarden 35 km
Last stage through the green landscapes where the Frisian cows graze peacefully while watching ... the bikes. You pass through the towns of Rinsumageest and Burdaard.
Overnight in Leeuwarden.
Day 8 - Leeuwarden
End of the tour after breakfast and departure or possibility of an additional night in Leeuwarden.
