Self-Guided North Holland and Friesland Bike and Boat Tour
Flat countryside stretching to the horizon, traditional windmills, peaceful canals known as grachten, and a strong cycling culture define the Netherlands. Yet the country offers much more to discover. Experience it in a unique way on an 8-day journey by bike and boat. Well-developed cycling paths and an extensive network of waterways ensure a relaxing and unforgettable holiday.
This tour explores the northern part of the Netherlands, located on a peninsula between the North Sea and the IJsselmeer. The region developed after the historical separation of the northern and southern Netherlands in 1840. Here you will discover folklore and traditions in the wide polder landscapes, along the North Sea coast, and in charming harbour towns. Much of this area was once covered by lakes and marshes, which were gradually drained with the help of windmills beginning in the 17th century. Today, it offers classic Dutch scenery including green polders, sandy dunes, North Sea beaches, the island of Texel, and picturesque villages along the IJsselmeer coast.
The province of Friesland is particularly known for its lakes, rivers, and canals, creating a paradise for cyclists. The peaceful atmosphere and vast natural surroundings make it an ideal setting for a bike and boat experience.
Self-Guided
easy
34 km / 21 mi
7
Casual+ Accommodation
Min. 1, Max. 12
Highlights

Scenic Cycling Routes
Ride along flat countryside, peaceful canals, and iconic windmills on well-marked Dutch cycle paths. Each day offers beautiful landscapes, charming villages, and comfortable distances for relaxed exploration.

Coastal Island Charm
Explore the stunning island of Texel, sandy dunes, and picturesque harbour towns of Friesland. Experience authentic Dutch culture, tranquil waters, and breathtaking coastal scenery throughout the tour.

Historic Harbour Cities
Explore charming Dutch towns like Hoorn, Harlingen, and Medemblik, known for their 17th-century architecture, lively harbours, and cozy cafés. Each stop reveals rich maritime history, picturesque streets, and authentic local culture along the IJsselmeer coast.
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.
| Day | Place | Casual+ Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Enkhuizen | D | |||
| DAY 2 | Hoorn | B L D | 21 km / 13 mi | cycling | |
| DAY 3 | Lemmer | B L D | 39 km / 24 mi | cycling | |
| DAY 4 | Harlingen | B L D | 37 km / 23 mi | cycling | |
| DAY 5 | Oudeschild | B L D | 44 km / 27 mi | cycling | |
| DAY 6 | Den Oever | B L D | 38 km / 24 mi | cycling | |
| DAY 7 | Medemblik | B L D | 57 km / 35 mi | cycling | |
| DAY 8 | Departure | B | cycling |
Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Enkhuizen
Your journey begins as you arrive in Enkhuizen. In the afternoon, you can settle into your cabin on board. If you feel like exploring, take a relaxing stroll through this lovely harbour town, known for its peaceful streets and historic charm.
The calm waterfront and traditional Dutch surroundings make it the perfect start to your adventure.

Day 2: Hoorn
Start your morning by soaking in the atmosphere of Enkhuizen, a town resting beside the IJsselmeer. Its rich maritime past is still visible in the canals, old churches, and traditional architecture. A visit to the famous Zuiderzee Museum is highly recommended.
Later, enjoy your first cycling ride to Hoorn, where you’ll be welcomed by a stunning old town filled with impressive 17th-century buildings and a picturesque waterfront.The route is gentle and scenic, offering a perfect blend of culture and countryside.

Day 3: Lemmer
After breakfast, you will sail across the IJsselmeer to Lemmer in Friesland. This small town is admired for its traditional houses and cosy historic centre. From here, begin a scenic cycling loop through peaceful countryside villages and lakeside landscapes. If you choose the longer route, you’ll also pass through beautiful nature reserves.
Don’t miss the chance to see the world-famous Woudagemaal steam pumping station, still working today. The day feels like a postcard, filled with nature, heritage, and quiet beauty.

Day 4: Harlingen
Today’s ride takes you through breathtaking Frisian scenery. Cycle past quiet lakes, forest paths, and bird-rich natural areas before reaching Stavoren, a town full of legends and coastal beauty.
From there, you’ll board the ship and sail onward to Harlingen. This lively Frisian port town is famous for its grand old warehouses, charming canals, and welcoming cafés along the harbour. As evening arrives, the town’s warm atmosphere makes it a wonderful place to unwind.

Day 5: Oudeschild
A refreshing cycling tour awaits you today, offering wide open views and the natural beauty of Friesland’s countryside. Enjoy the peaceful landscapes and the slow rhythm of rural life along the way. After returning to Harlingen, the afternoon brings a change of scenery as your ship heads toward the North Sea island of Texel, a peaceful island escape. The sea journey adds a magical touch to the day’s adventure.

Day 6: Den Oever
Spend your day discovering Texel, the largest Dutch island in the North Sea. With several route options, you can choose a shorter or longer ride depending on your mood. Cycle through dunes, coastal paths, and charming island villages while enjoying the fresh sea air.
Later in the afternoon, you’ll sail to Den Oever, a small fishing town on the mainland. Texel’s natural beauty and calm vibes make this day truly unforgettable.

Day 7: Medemblik
Today offers two cycling choices. The longer route leads you through sandy dunes, seaside beaches, and historic former harbour villages, while the shorter option takes you across the scenic Hollands Kroon region and the old island of Wieringen.
Both paths bring you to Medemblik, the oldest town in West Friesland, where cosy cafés and a beautiful historic centre await. The day ends with a sense of accomplishment and the charm of a classic Dutch town.
Day 8: Departure
Early in the morning, you will sail back to Enkhuizen. After breakfast, it is time to check out by 9:00 am. Take a final moment to enjoy the calm harbour views before saying goodbye. Your memorable cycling and sailing adventure comes to an end, and we wish you a smooth and safe journey home. You will leave with beautiful memories of nature, culture, and the Dutch waterways.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Accommodation
Each accommodation has been thoughtfully selected to ensure an exceptional and memorable experience for guests. Should the listed hotel be unavailable, we will ensure an alternative of similar quality.

MS RIGOLETTO
MS Rigoletto is a 105-metre river cruise ship accommodating up to 113 guests, offering a comfortable and well-organized setting for your journey. All cabins are outside-facing and equipped with en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, TV/radio, safe (deposit required), hairdryer, and onboard telephone. Large panoramic windows provide natural light, with an opening upper section for fresh air. Onboard spaces are designed for relaxation between cycling days. The ship features a welcoming restaurant serving full-board meals, including breakfast, packed or onboard lunches, and three-course dinners. A comfortable salon with bar and large windows allows you to enjoy views of the passing landscapes, while a partially covered sun deck with seating and an outdoor bar provides additional space to unwind. Additional services include daily housekeeping, change of linens and towels as needed, and onboard assistance throughout the journey. The ship also offers a small library and onboard store, adding to the convenience of your stay. Overall, MS Rigoletto combines essential comfort, practical amenities, and scenic cruising to complement your cycling experience.

Panorama Lounge
The main lounge and bar feature large panoramic windows, allowing you to enjoy the scenery of the IJsselmeer, canals, and harbour towns even while sailing. It’s a relaxed space to unwind after a day of cycling, read from the small onboard library, or gather with fellow travellers while the landscape slowly passes by.

Superior Cabins
The partially covered sun deck provides seating areas, an outdoor bar, and dedicated space for storing the bicycles used during the tour. It’s an easygoing place to enjoy fresh air while sailing between destinations, with open views across the Dutch waterways and countryside.
Dates and Prices
Book with Confidence: For scheduled group departures, your 20% deposit is fully refundable until 60 days before departure. Solo travellers booking 120+ days in advance can avoid a mandatory Single Supplement. See terms & conditions.
Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?
Open your date as a join-in tour or customize further as a private one.
Essential Info
Inclusions
LODGING
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
Luggage Transfer
Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
Exclusions
Airport pickup
We recommend to book direclty from airport.
Airport drop
We recommend to book direclty from your last hotel.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
A great ride begins with a great bike. Our tours typically include the models listed below, though in some cases—due to height or availability constraints—we may provide an equivalent alternative.

Velo De Ville L200 or similar
Included in your trip price

Velo De Ville or similar
Available at a surcharge
Enkhuizen
Enkhuizen
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)
**Arrival **
Travelers joining this cycling and sailing tour usually fly into Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS), the largest international airport in the Netherlands. From the airport, Enkhuizen can be reached conveniently by Dutch Railways (NS) trains, with smooth connections via Amsterdam Central Station. Visitors may also travel by regional bus services such as Connexxion or R-Net buses, depending on the timetable and route. For a more direct option, taxis, private transfers, or shuttle services are available, and some guests may prefer renting a car for flexible travel. These transport choices make arrival in Enkhuizen easy and comfortable.
**Departure **
At the end of the tour, guests depart from Enkhuizen and return to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) for their flight home. The journey back can again be done using NS train services, which provide reliable and frequent connections. Travelers may also choose regional buses such as Connexxion or R-Net, or use taxis and private transfer services for door-to-door convenience. Rental cars are another option for those who want flexibility. Overall, the departure process is smooth, with multiple transportation methods available to reach the airport comfortably.
This cycling and sailing tour in the Netherlands is best enjoyed in late spring and summer, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor riding.
The best months are May, June, July, and September, with daytime temperatures generally ranging from about 14–23°C (57–73°F), offering long daylight hours, fresh breezes, and excellent cycling conditions.
April and August are also good choices, though April can be slightly unpredictable with occasional showers, and August may bring more crowds and some rainfall.
March and October are considered mixed months, as temperatures are cooler, around 8–15°C (46–59°F), and the weather can change quickly with wind and rain.
The winter months, especially November, December, January, and February, are off-season for this tour, with temperatures often between 2–10°C (36–50°F), shorter days, strong coastal winds, and wetter conditions, making cycling less comfortable.
Overall, the ideal travel period is from May to September, particularly June and July for the most enjoyable experience.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Mixed
April
Mixed
May
Best
June
Best
July
Best
August
Good
September
Best
October
Mixed
November
Offseason
December
Offseason
Best
Good
Mixed
Offseason
Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.
Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear
- Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
- Padded cycling shorts.
- Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
- Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
- Synthetic cycling socks.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
- Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
- Rain jacket or windbreaker.
- Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).
Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.
Clothing
- Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
- Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
- Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
- Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
- Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.
Other Necessities
- Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Plug socket adaptor.
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.
Pro Tips
- Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
- Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
- Pack light to leave room for shopping.
Luggage
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website.
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend purchasing adequate travel insurance to protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
Is proof of medical insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
A self-guided bike tour allows you to explore independently using our detailed app-based navigation and pre-arranged logistics. We provide route notes via app, luggage transfers, hotel bookings, and emergency phone support. There is no local guide riding with you, so you manage your own navigation and basic bike upkeep.
For self-guided tours, the fitting process is designed to be simple and flexible while ensuring you start with a bike that suits your measurements.
Before Your Tour
When you book, we ask for your height. This allows our local partners to select the correct frame size and prepare the bike in advance so it’s close to your ideal fit when you arrive.
At the Start of the Tour
The setup experience varies by destination:
-
In some locations, you may receive an in-person handover with basic adjustments made by the local partner.
-
In others, especially in more remote regions, you may receive a bike that is pre-set based on the measurements you provided.
All self-guided bikes include basic tools, so you can make simple adjustments such as raising or lowering the saddle yourself.
During the Tour
You can adjust the bike as you ride using the provided tools. If anything feels off and you need assistance, our local partners are reachable and will support you as promptly as the location allows.
What to Expect
The self-guided bike fit is practical and rider-adjustable. It ensures:
- You start with the correct frame size
- You can fine-tune your comfort easily
- You have the flexibility to adjust as needed along the route
It’s not an in-depth professional fitting, but it’s perfectly suited for multi-day touring comfort.
We provide an app-based navigation system that includes all your daily routes, points of interest, and important trip notes. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we’ll share your login details before your trip.
Yes. Once the routes are downloaded, the app works completely offline, so you don’t need mobile data while riding. You can even use it in airplane mode, which helps conserve your phone’s battery.
To extend battery life further, we recommend reducing screen brightness and carrying a small power bank for longer days on the trail.
A mobile holder is not provided. Since you’ll be using your phone for navigation, we strongly recommend bringing your own sturdy, handlebar-mounted mobile holder to ensure a safe and comfortable riding experience.
We do not provide GPX files separately. All routes are available within our navigation app, which is the most reliable and up-to-date source for your trip. Once you receive the login details for the navigation app — generally shared about one month before your departure — you can explore the routes and, if needed, also download the GPX files directly from the app for use with your personal Garmin or GPS device. We recommend getting familiar with the app and its features before your tour starts to ensure a smooth experience on the road.
For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tools to help them fix such minor issues. The exact contents of the kit depend on the type of bike, terrain and other factors, and will be communicated to you closer to your date of departure. However, usually such a kit includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. In some cases, the kit may only include a pump or a repair foam.
Self-guided riders are expected to be independent in handling these minor problems. While there are some bike shops along the route, they are limited. If you are unsure about how to repair a puncture, we recommend considering a guided or van-supported trip instead.
For major mechanical failures, such as a cable break, the guests can contact the emergency support number provided. The support team will help coordinate a solution, which could include dispatching a local mechanic, suggesting a nearby bicycle shop for repairs, or sending a vehicle to pick up the rider. Please note that all support services will be provided on a chargeable basis, and assistance may take time, so we advise being prepared for potential delays.
Yes, each rider will be provided with at least one pannier to carry personal items during the tour. Please note, road bikes do not support panniers.
Yes, we provide helmets. However, we recommend that guests try to bring their own helmets, as these are items of a personal nature.
Your luggage will be picked up at the reception of your hotel every morning by 9.00am.
It will be delivered to the next hotel before 5pm. Most of the time it is delivered in the early afternoon itself.
We recommend that you carry no more than 2 bags together weighing up to 15kgs for this trip. You can have one large bag, which contains all your clothing and gear needed for the trip, and one small bag that contains essential items you will frequently need such as passport etc. Please note that once a bag gets loaded in the luggage transfer vehicle, you may not have access to it till later in the evening when you reach the hotel for the night.
We provide local support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our local team will assist in coordinating medical care, guiding you to the nearest healthcare facility, and ensuring you receive the necessary support. The national emergency system is reliable and effective, and in the event of a serious accident, contacting them is highly recommended. However, due to our distance from certain areas, response times may be longer. We strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance, and we will do everything we can to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency.
Airport transfers are not included unless specifically mentioned in your trip inclusions.
For airport pickup, we recommend booking directly from the airport upon arrival — most airports have reliable taxi, shuttle, or app-based options.
For airport drop, please book a transfer through your last hotel — they can easily arrange it for you.
We focus on delivering exceptional experiences during your tour. For logistical simplicity and flexibility, we do not handle pre- or post-tour hotel bookings. However, we’re happy to share a list of recommended hotels near the starting and ending points of your trip so you can plan your stay independently.
We are happy to pass on your room preference for a twin or double setup, and our hotel partners do their best to accommodate these requests. However, room configurations are always subject to availability at each property.
On some of our trips—especially those that travel through remote regions or small boutique inns—room types may be limited. In such cases, despite our best efforts, you may need to stay in a double room instead of a twin, or twin instead of a double, depending on what is available.
Given the nature of our journeys and the unique places we visit, we kindly ask for your understanding and support if such adjustments are required.
We will always inform you in advance wherever possible and work closely with our partners to ensure the most comfortable arrangement for your stay.
The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.
Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.
Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)
Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.
You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.
The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.
Reviews from our friends
You may also like




