4.7
(309)
2,381
riders
50
rides
Touring cycling routes around Alkemade are characterized by a flat, water-rich landscape, typical of the Netherlands. The region features numerous polders, canals, and lakes, offering expansive views across agricultural lands and waterways. Elevation changes are minimal, making it suitable for relaxed cycling. The area is also known for its traditional windmills and proximity to coastal areas.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
4.5
(11)
166
riders
26.4km
01:33
40m
40m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(10)
78
riders
18.3km
01:03
20m
20m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.5
(11)
58
riders
47.4km
02:47
80m
80m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.2
(9)
73
riders
15.8km
00:55
20m
20m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(9)
80
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Boat trip through the canals in Leiden is highly recommended.
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Nice place to sit by the water and friendly service at Prik en Proost.
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The other of the two remaining gates in the city wall of Leiden
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The Zijlpoort (literally "Zijl Gate") is, along with the Morspoort, the only one of the eight former city gates to have survived. The gate was built in 1667 in the neoclassical style according to a design by the Leiden architect Willem van der Helm and adorned with sculptures by Rombout Verhulst. The clock was cast by Hemony in 1668. Since the gate had to be connected to both the former city wall and the bridge in front of it, the building is shaped like a parallelogram. The Oude Rijn flows from the nearby River Zijl through the Zijlpoort into the city of Leiden. The Oude Zijlpoort, the predecessor of this gate, was located 300 meters further west on Haarlemmerstraat (between Koestraat and Havenplein), where the old city wall originally ran. Over time, the Zijlpoort, and especially the hall above the passage, served various purposes: in the early 18th century, rhetoricians met here; from 1736 onward, a school for poor children was established there; and in the 19th century, municipal goods were stored there. In the last quarter of the 20th century, the Zijlpoort underwent two major renovations. During the most recent renovation in the 1990s, supporting structures were added to both sides of the gate. Since 1999, one of these structures has housed a restaurant. The cemetery of the same name has been located next to the Zijlpoort since 1828. The gate has been a national monument since 1968. (Source: Wikipedia)
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At this spot, dotted with several benches, boats come and go constantly. Always a pleasant sight.
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The Dutch really have a wide and well-maintained cycling network.
2
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Great restaurant for a drink or a snack
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0
There's no better way to get around than by bike!
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Alkemade offers a diverse selection of over 50 touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various preferences, with 40 classified as easy and 11 as moderate, ensuring options for most cyclists.
The touring cycling routes in Alkemade are characterized by a flat, water-rich landscape, typical of the Netherlands. You'll encounter numerous polders, canals, and lakes, offering expansive views across agricultural lands and waterways. Elevation changes are minimal, making it ideal for relaxed cycling.
Yes, Alkemade is very suitable for family cycling. With 40 easy routes and minimal elevation changes, many paths are perfect for all ages. A great option is the Windmill at Wijde Aa – Lijkermolen loop from Kaag en Braassem, which is a shorter, easy trail through polder landscapes.
Many of the touring cycling routes in Alkemade are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the popular View of the water – Zwanburgerpolder loop from Roelofarendsveen is a circular route offering scenic water views.
Alkemade's routes showcase traditional Dutch landscapes. You'll cycle past numerous polders, canals, and lakes, often with expansive views. The region is also known for its historic windmills, such as those seen on the Windmill at Wijde Aa – Lijkermolen loop from Rijpwetering. Some routes also extend towards coastal areas, offering dune and beach views like the Hollands Duin — Coepelduynen Cycle Path.
Yes, the Alkemade region offers access to several historical sites and castles. You can cycle to explore places like the Castle of Leiden, Keukenhof Castle, or the picturesque Oud Poelgeest Castle, which are all within cycling distance.
The touring cycling routes in Alkemade are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 280 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the flat, scenic routes, the abundance of water views, and the charming polder landscapes dotted with windmills.
While specific parking areas for each route are not detailed, given the region's popularity for cycling, you can generally find parking in the towns and villages that serve as starting points for the routes, such as Roelofarendsveen, Oude Wetering, or Kaag en Braassem.
Yes, Alkemade is well-connected by public transport, particularly buses, which can take you to the various towns and villages that serve as starting points for the cycling routes. This allows for flexible planning, even if you don't start directly from Alkemade itself.
The spring and summer months (April to September) are generally the best time for touring cycling in Alkemade. During this period, the weather is mild, the landscapes are lush, and you can fully enjoy the open views and blooming fields. The flat terrain makes it accessible even in cooler shoulder seasons.
Yes, while many routes are easy, there are longer options for those seeking a more extensive ride. The View of the water – Noordwijk Beach loop from Oude Wetering is a moderate 29.4 miles (47.3 km) path that extends towards the coastal area, offering a longer and varied experience.
Absolutely. Alkemade is an excellent destination for beginner touring cyclists. The region's flat terrain and minimal elevation changes mean that most of the 40 easy routes are very accessible and enjoyable for those new to cycling or looking for a relaxed ride.
Yes, the towns and villages throughout the Alkemade region, such as Roelofarendsveen, Oude Wetering, and Kaag en Braassem, offer various cafes, restaurants, and pubs where you can stop for refreshments or a meal. Many routes pass directly through or near these charming locations.
While specific dog-friendly routes aren't highlighted, the flat and open nature of Alkemade's polder landscapes generally makes it suitable for cycling with dogs, provided they are accustomed to a bike trailer or can run safely alongside. Always ensure your dog is leashed where required and respect local regulations.
Alkemade offers a quintessential Dutch touring cycling experience. Its unique blend of expansive polder landscapes, intricate networks of canals and lakes, traditional windmills, and proximity to coastal dunes provides a serene and picturesque backdrop for relaxed rides. The flat terrain ensures an enjoyable experience for cyclists of all levels.


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