Netherlands Bike & Barge Tour 🇳🇱 | The Ultimate South Holland Cycling Adventure

Freewheel Holidays

https://freewheelholidays.co.uk/cycle-holiday/bike-and-barge-southern-netherlands/

Explore the very best of the Netherlands on this unforgettable bike and barge adventure through South Holland and beyond. Starting in the modern city of Rotterdam, this 5-day cycling holiday combines world-class cycle infrastructure, historic Dutch towns, iconic windmills, riverside landscapes, and the unique experience of travelling aboard a floating hotel.

Operated by Freewheel Holidays
This self-guided cycle tour allows you to ride at your own pace while your barge transports your luggage and accommodation to the next destination each day.

Tour Highlights
Cycle through the famous Dutch water landscapes and river networks
Visit historic cities including Dordrecht, Gorinchem, Utrecht, and Schoonhoven
Experience the incredible cycling infrastructure the Netherlands is famous for
Stay aboard a comfortable bike and barge vessel with meals included
Discover windmills, canals, castles, markets, Dutch architecture, and riverside scenery

Itinerary

Day 1 (Sunday): Rotterdam to Dordrecht – Approx. 39 km
Cycle out of Rotterdam through classic Dutch scenery towards historic Dordrecht, one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands.

Day 2 (Monday): Dordrecht to Gorinchem – Approx. 46–53 km
Ride through river landscapes, traditional villages, and peaceful countryside towards the fortified city of Gorinchem.

Day 3 (Tuesday): Gorinchem to Utrecht – Approx. 47 km
Follow scenic cycling routes into Utrecht, a vibrant historic city known for its canals, towers, and atmosphere.

Day 4 (Wednesday): Utrecht to Schoonhoven – Approx. 41–52 km
Cycle through the Green Heart of Holland towards Schoonhoven, the famous Dutch “Silver City.”

Day 5 (Thursday): Schoonhoven to Rotterdam / Schiedam – Approx. 52–65 km
The final ride returns to Rotterdam through iconic Dutch landscapes filled with waterways, windmills, and endless cycle paths.

Perfect for cycle touring enthusiasts, casual riders, and anyone wanting to experience the Netherlands in the most immersive way possible, this bike and barge holiday blends adventure, comfort, and some of the best cycling routes in Europe.

Glass Museum- https://www.nationaalglasmuseum.nl/en/
Witches Weighing House – https://heksenwaag.nl/en/

Chapters

00:00 Intro
01:14 MS Normandie
02:50 Rotterdam
03:52 The 1953 Floods
04:41 Kinderdijk
05:34 Dordrecht
07:08 Villa Augustus
08:03 Biesbosch National Park
09:22 Gorinchem
11:05 National Glass Museum
12:39 – Chance Meeting
14:06 – De Haar Castle
15:07 – Oudewater / Kibbeling
17:00 – The Witches of Oudewater
18:30 -Schoonhoven
19:15 Reflections
21:45 Gouda
23:21 The Tunnel