Zuiderzee Cycle Route (LF)

Ride a full loop around the former Zuiderzee — today’s IJsselmeer and Markermeer — on this classic LF route. It strings together historic harbors like Hoorn, Enkhuizen, Harderwijk, Kampen, Urk, and the Frisian gems Stavoren and Hindeloopen, with long dikes, open polders, and bird-filled wetlands in between.

The riding is easy and scenic: almost completely flat, mostly on smooth asphalt cycleways and quiet roads, with just a few short gravel stretches. Wind is the main climb. It’s a loop, so start anywhere and ride it in either direction. Figure roughly 400 km for the whole circle — perfect for a 5–7 day tour, or break it into relaxed day stages using the many towns and train links.

Highlights: endless lakeside views, classic wooden houses and working harbors, beaches on sunny days, and the Zuiderzee Museum in Enkhuizen if you want a culture stop. Coffee spots and fish stands are never far away.

Tips: check access on major dikes and any seasonal ferries if you plan shortcuts. Bring layers; weather off the water can flip fast. Touring bikes, city bikes, and e-bikes all work great here.

If you want peak Dutch cycling — big skies, tidy paths, and storybook towns — this one delivers.