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Cycling in the Netherlands
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By Brian Watkyns
A country well equipped for cycling
Recently Ann and I spent a few weeks cycling in the Netherlands with our two grandchildren aged 9 and 11. The land is level (one third being reclaimed land) with a mild climate and not much wind. The short distances between towns coupled with an amazing cycling infrastructure makes the Netherlands an ideal country to explore on a bicycle. The entire country is linked by cycle lanes with each numbered and clearly signposted. Free cellphone apps are available for download enabling you to plan your route in advance and does not require data or Wi-Fi as you follow your route. Cycling
encouraged in the Netherlands
We borrowed two cycles from a couple who were about to travel to South Africa to spend a few weeks in the Kruger Park, however cycles and eBikes can be easily hired. In fact residents are encouraged to cycle and companies pay a higher rate of compensation per kilometre for those who cycle to work as opposed to those who use their motor vehicles.
Remember to "keep right"
Our first challenge was to keep to the righthand side of the cycle lanes and roads. In many sections the cycle lane is shared by pedestrians and scooters (but not motorbikes). On some routes cars may also use a section of the cycle lane with signs and road markings reminding drivers that they are using the lane as a guest only. In general motorists are extremely polite to cyclists, which is no surprise because where an accident involves a cyclist, the motorist is automatically seen to be at fault. At signalised intersections pedestrians and cyclists often cross at different times. This can be confusing. Some signalised intersections have sensors in the cycle lane which automatically change the signal in favour of the approaching cyclists. Day trip from Leischendam to Den Haag Our base was in Leischendam from where we made one day journeys. The town is a 30-minute cycle from the centre of the capital, Den Haag (The Hague). The particular route we followed to the capital was parallel to a major road. On one side is the Haagse Bos Forest with public playparks and the Huis ten Bosch Palace built in 1645 which is the residence of King Willem-Alexander and family. The guards on duty at the gate of the residence would give us a cheery greeting as we passed. I guess we must have stood out as clumsy tourists on bicycles.
Beautiful varied scenery
Most cycle lanes are parallel to, but not necessarily close to or next to, major roads or train lines. Along the routes you could be in the countryside among grazing sheep or could be cycling though the middle of a town in a narrow street with quaint old shops. Along most routes you will find play parks with benches and the ever-present zip line. The country was in the grip of a heatwave but in the approximately 600kms we cycled, we came across only one very welcome water fountain.
Great ride around Vlietland Lake area
Possibly the most enjoyable cycle was around Vlietland Lake area consisting of three lakes with a total surface area of 130 ha surrounded by woods, creeks, meadows and parks. The formation of the lake began in 1969 when sand was excavated for use in civil engineering projects. Among the attractions are a number of small beaches, a water park, a boat club, sailing club, camping spots and a waterfront with a small harbour. We unsuccessfully tried to avoid the “naturist” recreation area before hot footing out of the area.
Huge estates in Voorburg
Cycling through Voorburg, considered to be the oldest city in the Netherlands, we were surprised at the large size of the properties/ estates near the town centre, taking into account that the Netherlands is the most densely populated country in Europe. While crime appears to be absolutely minimal, it is prudent to lock your bicycle to a bicycle rack - along with an added distinguishing feature so that you can find your cycle among hundreds of similar looking cycles. Cycling is the best!
Cycling one way and using public transport back is seldom an option as few trains, trams or buses permit cycles. We used a bus once. The journey showed us without a doubt that their bus drivers are trained by a Cape Town taxi driver. Train and trams are fast and efficient. A travel card can be used on all public transport modes. However the easiest, cheapest mode of transport is a bicycle with the added benefit of getting exercise and being eco-friendly.
