This is your day trip! You decide where you want to go, what you want to see, and at what pace. I'm the person who translates your interests into content, route and logistics. And I cycle with you, recounting the fascinating history of this part of Europe. Pointing out the traces of the past. Of floods and wars, and how people did overcome ... or not.
If you leave the destination to me, I'll pick you up at Amsterdam Central Station, and show you my favourite region just east of Amsterdam : beautiful historical countryside only 15 train minutes away. There, rental bicycles are waiting for us. And off we go ! I can assure you, the scenery is surprisingly diverse. Of course, there's that classic Holland with green pastures, cows, rivers and canals, and windmills. But within cycling range : huge lakes and wetlands with an affluent wildlife, forests and heath covered plains, parklike woods with stately country mansions. And even (modest) hills. Also a great variation in historical buildings. Old farmhouses and a couple of charming little towns, some fortified. As this was a disputed region during most of the last 1000 years, plenty of war souvenirs. From medieval castle to fortified towns, from old forts to World War II bunkers. You'll also see part of the 135 km long Defence Line of Amsterdam (on the UNESCO World Heritage List). The minimum duration for a guided cycling trip is half a day. Enough for a general introduction to the country and its history, with a visit to a castle or a fort. To discover the region in its full variation, you should count a full day, with visits to several historical sites (you can choose between various subjects and locations). The maximal group size is 8 people, but you'll generally be cycling in a much smaller company. This tour is a very personalized experience that is usually just for you, your family, your party. Two day arrangements are also an attractive option. With for example the first day a city walk in Amsterdam and a short bicycle ride in the countryside. With this combination we can also take the weather into account : cycling morning or afternoon. The second day for a longer bicycle tour, to explore the region fully and in a relaxed way. For more information on a guided walk in historical Amsterdam, or the Rembrandt walk, see supplier profile and other package there. The outline of tour costs mentioned below is for a half or full day bicycle trip in the suggested region. For trips in other parts of the country and tailor-made combinations : please get in touch, and it will be my pleasure to send you a specified proposition. A few practical points on bike rental : An ID and a refundable caution of 50 Euro per bike is demanded by the rental shop. Also note that a bicycle trip is at your own risk, that you remain responsible for your bike, and that bike helmets are NOT supplied. (Bike helmets are not commonly used in Holland, except by racers and children). The rental bikes are classic Dutch 3 speed city bikes, ideal for this flat terrain. Bicycles are suitable for persons with a body length of 155 cm (5 ft) and up. In this option you rent the bike, but of course I help you with reservation, pick up and checking the bike ! Now, that's for a good reason : it gives you full freedom of movement. You can cycle (partly) on your own as well. By no means necessary to be guided or accompanied by me all the time. Or I can lead you to a town or castle, and you visit it on your own. Any place where you want to spend some more time (like a summer swim in a lake), and don't need me any more. Member discount: Notes:
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