Cycling holidays in Holland

The Netherlands is one of the most bike-friendly countries in Europe and there is a lot of etiquette you need to know to ensure you're cycling safely in Holland. Always stay on the right side of the bike lane and if you're going to pass another cyclist, you need to alert them with your bell and then pass on the left. You need to be up to date on bike signalling and if you're cycling in a group, only two people are allowed to bike side by side.

When cycling in cities, remember that trams always have priority and you're not allowed to ride on the pavement. It's also illegal to cycle without a working bell, under the influence of alcohol, or while holding a mobile phone or other communication devices.

If you don't follow the rules, you could receive an expensive fine. 

If you're ready to book one of our cycling trips in Holland, you just need to follow these simple steps:

1. Click the 'Book now' tab of the holiday page to check the availability of your travel dates and confirm the details.
2. Your provisional booking will be held for five days so you can arrange your travel and buy insurance, etc. To confirm your booking, we just need a deposit. Call us with your debit/credit card details or use our secure online card payment page.
3. You'll receive your invoice in the post within seven days of confirming your booking. Approximately 10 weeks before your departure date, you'll need to provide your final payment to receive your holiday documentation.

If you have any queries about making a booking or you'd like to make amendments to it before your departure, just contact our sales team. Give us a call, email us or use our live chat feature.

Since you're going to be on two wheels for most of your trip, we recommend all customers bring lightweight, comfortable cycling clothes and rain gear in the event of some showers. Our bike tours run from April to September and the climate in the Netherlands is generally warmer than in the UK. In the warmer months, it's advisable to bring some sun protection with you. Layers are key as it gets colder.

Other essentials include snacks and a water bottle to keep your body fuelled throughout the cycling tour. A first-aid kit is always useful in the case of a tumble on trickier terrain.

We'll supply you with Headwater bikes to use throughout your cycling trip but there are a few things you can bring along to fit them. These include pedals, cycling computers, saddles, water bottle cages, handlebar bags, child seats, and helmets.

We'll happily fit them for you as long as your items are rep-approved, compatible with our bikes, and don't damage them.

Surprisingly, cycle helmets are not a legal requirement when biking in the Netherlands as a general awareness and respect is given to cyclists. There is no denying that wearing a helmet is safer, though, so we recommend it to all customers.

Headwater is unable to provide helmets as we cannot guarantee their history, but we advise that every client brings their own for the duration of their bike tour.  

Depending on the cycling tour package you choose, it could take you anywhere between three and seven nights to travel around Holland. Shorter trips give you a taste of the beauty of the Netherlands and are ideal for long weekend breaks.

However, to truly experience the fascinating terrain and culture that Holland has to offer, we recommend booking one of our longer cycling holidays.