Amsterdam Day Trip: Cycling to Het Twiske Nature Reserve
Summer and autumn are perfect seasons to hop on your bike and explore outside of the city. One of my favorite bicycle adventures is to head north to enjoy a relaxing day in nature at Het Twiske.
The bike ride to Het Twiske takes you through the Dutch countryside and marshy wetlands. You’ll pass by windmills, and through pastoral scenes of cows, sheep, and wildflowers along the way. This large nature preserve is home to wide-open spaces for camping, wildlife watching, loads of bike paths, and more.
Don't forget to pack your favorite snacks and drinks! This area is perfect for a picnic. However, there isn't much out here except for a few small concession stands and… a pancake restaurant. How typically Dutch!
““I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order.”
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Het Twiske nature preserve includes 650 hectares of green space, and one-third of this area is water! The lake and canal system is perfect for canoeing, boating, paddleboarding, or even a freshwater swim. There are plenty of natural water swimming options throughout the Netherlands. I’m more of a beach and pool type of gal but those of you who enjoy natural swimming should check out this map to discover areas with clean, safe water for swimming.
Given the circumstances of life in lockdown, we cycled to the northernmost point to find a super secluded spot. It was just us, our snacks, and a small herd of cows out there listening to the birdies chirp while watching little sailboats float past. It's been incredibly bizarre to be trapped alone in Amsterdam these past few months. Like many others, I've struggled with the shocking, abrupt changes to life as we knew it. Keeping my mental health balanced is a priority during this complicated, isolated time. So, a sunny bike ride and a fresh air distanced picnic with friends was exactly what I needed to get my spirit back on track! Apparently, we weren't the only ones ready for a city escape ... once we got there, it seemed as though half of Amsterdam had the same idea in mind! Nature, sunlight, and bird songs are so good for the soul.
HOW TO GET THERE
Cycling to Twiske is an easy trip and ideal for any fitness level. Begin with a quick ferry ride from Central Station to Buikslotersweg. Then, simply head north and follow the signs towards Twiske. The 12-kilometer / 8-mile ride should take you about 45 minutes at a leisurely pace. Watch out! This route is also very popular for racing cyclists who will fly past often aggressively, with little warning. If you have a car, there are parking spaces available too.
Curious for more? Check out traditional Dutch villages in the area like Broek en Waterland, Monnickendam, Volendam, and Marken. Discover more Amsterdam Day Trips here.
What are your favorite spots for a day trip from Amsterdam? I'm always up for new bike adventures. Let me know in the comments below!
