Cycling in the Netherlands

There is no happier cyclist than a Dutch cyclist. This is not only because The Netherlands is mainly flat, but also because the Dutch enjoy the most extensive cycle network in the world. This small country has over 25,000 miles of high-quality traffic-free cycle routes (!), and on many occasions cyclists have priority over motorised traffic. This is a cyclist's paradise; whether you are a novice cyclist, want to give children a safe and fun cycling experience, or want to do serious mileage in a unique cycling-minded environment. You can travel beyond Dutch cliches like clogs, windmills and the Amsterdam red light district; get on that bike and explore the scenic sand dune reserves along the Dutch beaches, the splendid inland waterway routes, unspoilt countryside, great medieval towns like Haarlem or Utrecht and of course the famous Dutch tulip fields! With distances between places being small, there is something out there for everyone! It took Cycling Dutchman Eric van der Horst over 15 years to explore the full extent of the Dutch cycle route network. In this guidebook he presents his very best routes and a unique inside look into a true cycling nation, packed with invaluable practical information for the international visitor!