bikepacking NL

We are proud members of Bikepacking Holland, a network of unique and bike friendly hostels in the Netherlands.

Together with our friends of Hostel ROOM Rotterdam we introduced a sporty & safe way of travelling: backpacking by bike!

Check here to the map with all hostels of this unique network!

The Strowis’s insider bikepacking tips: make your bike trip memorable!

A. North: Waterline & Polder

0. Ride along the river Vecht. No words needed!

1. Molen van de Polder Westbroek This is a unique historic sight known as "The Giant and the Dwarf." You will see the province's largest and smallest windmills standing brotherly side-by-side. It is a key location in the Waterline history and arguably the best photo op in the polder.
• Tip: Stop here to admire the engineering; it’s a perfect visual summary of Dutch water management.

2. Maarsseveense Plassen A beautiful recreational lake area that is the ultimate spot for a cooling swim stop during a hot summer ride. The water is clean and the surroundings are green.
• Tip: De Pannekoekenbakker is located right on the water here. It’s the best place for some essential carb-loading (pancakes!) with a view.

3. Noorderpark & Fort de Gagel This green buffer zone connects the city to the polder. The highlight is the beautifully restored Waterline fortress which serves as the ideal start or finish point for the Noorderpark route.
• Tip: The fort features a huge terrace with plenty of space for bikes, making it a stress-free stop.

4. Westbroekse Zodden (Wetlands) As you head deeper into the polder, you hit the "Polder DNA" of Utrecht: water, reeds, and birds. This area offers wide, open views over the water and is incredibly peaceful.
• Tip: Molen de Trouwe Waghter is the iconic landmark here. Use the picnic benches nearby to soak in the view.

5. Fort aan de Klop (Utrecht North Basecamp) A unique location hidden in the greenery. It is an old fortress with a brasserie and hostel located inside the fortress walls. It feels like a village within the city.
• Tip: This is the ultimate basecamp for cyclists on the north side. They have a bike pump and repair station available on-site. (Seasonal: Open Spring/Summer).

6. Rural Polder Roads (Vierhouten) The roads here are flat, quiet, and surrounded by farms. It is the perfect place to get into a rhythm and enjoy the Dutch landscape.

• Tip: Streekwinkel de Achterdijk is essential for the self-supported bikepacker. Stop here to buy local produce (cheese, juice, fruit) directly from the farmer.

B. City Utrecht: Urban & Industrial

1. Werkspoorkwartier (Creative Hub) If you have to visit just one cultural area, this is it. It is raw, creative, and spacious. This former industrial zone has been transformed into a cultural playground.
• Tip: De Nijverheid. This spot is ideal for bikepackers who love an industrial, artistic vibe. It feels unpolished and authentic.

2. Oudegracht (The Quiet Side) Utrecht is famous for its canals, but the southern part of the Oudegracht is where the locals go. It is quieter, more scenic, and perfect for a relaxed roll-through away from the shopping crowds.
• Tip: Blackbird Coffee & Vintage. A haven for the coffee connoisseur. They display beautiful vintage road bikes on the walls, creating an atmosphere that is exactly what a bikepacker needs.

3. The Singel (Canal Ring) The green belt surrounding the old city center. In summer, this is the city's living room, where everyone gathers on the grass by the water.
• Tip: Roost aan de Singel. The perfect outdoor spot right on the canal. It has lots of space for bikes and a relaxed atmosphere that feels like a trail stop abroad. (Seasonal: Open Spring/Summer).

4. Medieval City Center The heart of Utrecht with its wharves and cellars. While cycling here requires attention, the history is palpable in every cobblestone.
• Tip: Café de Rat. For the bikepacker craving a real beer after the ride. It is the oldest specialty beer pub in Utrecht—no fuss, just knowledge.
• Tip: Horizon Bicycles. Sometimes you don't need a view, you need gear. If you are in the city and need expertise on touring setups, this is the place to go. They are specialists in touring bikes and bikepacking gear. They know their way around a Rohloff hub and a Brooks zadel.

5. Zuilen District (Industrial Edge) The transition zone where the city meets the river Vecht. It retains a working-class, industrial character that is rapidly becoming hip.
• Tip: Hof van Cartesius & Warmoes. Located in a rebuild industrial area near Station Zuilen. They serve plant-based food. Very bike-friendly.

C. East & South: Forests, Hills & History

1. Forest of Amelisweerd & The Kromme Rijn This is the most beautiful entrance to the city. You ride along a winding towpath next to the river, surrounded by massive, centuries-old beech trees on a historic estate. It feels miles away from the city bustle.
• Tip: De Veldkeuken is located right on the estate in a historic coach house. Their sourdough bread is legendary and the perfect fuel to keep you going.

2. Pyramid of Austerlitz A bizarre and unique landmark hidden in the woods: a grass-covered pyramid built by Napoleon’s soldiers in 1804 to combat boredom. It is one of the highest points in the Utrechtse Heuvelrug and a piece of history you can't miss.
• Tip: Het Beauforthuis is your basecamp here. It’s an old church converted into a theater-café that loves cyclists. The terrace is a true gathering spot for adventurers.

3. MTB Track of Amerongen & The Amerongse Berg This is the cycling heart of the Netherlands. Whether you are on a gravel bike, MTB, or road bike, this is where you find the elevation. The "Harry Slinger" descent is famous among mountain bikers, and the climb up the 'Berg' is a classic challenge for roadies.
• Tip: De Proloog is located at the foot of the climb. This isn't just a café; it's a cycling living room where everyone—from muddy MTBers to lycra-clad roadies—feels at home.

4. Fort de Batterijen (Nieuwegein) A rugged piece of the New Dutch Waterline defense system. It’s an impressive fortification surrounded by water and bunkers, often much quieter and more "undiscovered" than the forts closer to the city center.
• Tip: The outdoor grounds are massive and perfect for a relaxed break away from the crowds.