The best traffic-free bike rides around Haarlem
4.5
(233)
8,360
riders
13
rides
No traffic road cycling routes around Haarlem benefit from the city's location amidst diverse natural landscapes. The region features flat polder landscapes, coastal dunes, and wooded areas like Nationaal Park Zuid-Kennemerland. Cyclists can explore routes along waterways such as the Spaarne river and through open countryside. The terrain generally offers minimal elevation gain, making it accessible for various fitness levels.
Best no traffic road cycling routes around Haarlem
- The most popular no traffic road cycling route is Fort at Vijfhuizen…
Last updated: August 3, 2026
4.8
(4)
77
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
32
riders
51.0km
02:11
60m
60m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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3.0
(2)
29
riders
13.6km
00:35
20m
20m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(2)
31
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
19
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Popular around Haarlem
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Tips from the Community
The Fort aan den Ham near Uitgeest is one of the smallest forts of the Stelling van Amsterdam and was built between 1896 and 1903, after the railway line between Uitgeest and Krommenie had created a new strategic access. The line ran on an elevated railway embankment between the forts Veldhuis and Krommeniedijk and could therefore not be blocked by flooding (inundations). The fort was intended to control this important transport route and to prevent the advance of an attacker in case of war. The facility was designed for a garrison of around 170 soldiers. Unlike the larger forts, it only had machine guns for close defense. Two retractable gun turrets were equipped with 6-cm cannons. Support fire could be provided by the neighboring forts. South of the fort, there was also an additional gun position. During the Second World War, the cannons and the steel parts of the turrets were removed by the German occupying forces, and the turret structures were partially blown up. After the end of its military use, the fort served as an ammunition depot until the 1980s. It then stood empty for a few years. In 1995, the Stichting Fort aan den Ham was founded to preserve the historic structure and make it accessible to the public. Today, the fort houses a military history museum, largely run by dedicated volunteers. Several rooms have been furnished as authentically as possible and give an impression of the soldiers' lives about a hundred years ago. Among other things, the infirmary, crew quarters with bunk beds, officers' rooms, and historical sanitary facilities can be seen. The exhibition is supplemented by thematic areas on the German occupation 1940–1945, the invasion of 1799, the Beverwijk line, Dutch military history in Indonesia, as well as historical radio and communication technology. A scouting museum is also housed in the fort. Fort aan den Ham thus combines military history, landscape, and water defense, and vividly demonstrates how the Stelling van Amsterdam was once intended to function. Throughout the year, a volunteer day takes place every Wednesday and almost every second Saturday of the month. Opening hours are from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission price is 5 EUR for adults.
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quiet cycle path along the bulbs
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Along the Limes. Romans can be found again and again
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As of January 1, 2025, there is no longer a restaurant. It is now only an events venue.
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Great route parallel to the Leidsevaart along the fields
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available around Haarlem?
There are over 10 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Haarlem, designed for a smooth and enjoyable ride. Most of these, about 9, are rated as easy, making them accessible for various fitness levels.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on these routes?
The routes offer a diverse range of landscapes. You can cycle through picturesque coastal dunes and along beaches near the North Sea, explore verdant national parks like the Nationaal Park Zuid-Kennemerland, or experience the flat, open polder landscapes with their characteristic windmills and waterways. Forested areas and charming villages are also common sights.
Are there any easy, shorter no-traffic routes for beginners or a quick ride?
Yes, several easy routes are perfect for beginners or those looking for a shorter ride. For instance, the Meerwijkplas – Cruquiusbrug Drawbridge loop from Haarlem is an easy 13.8 km route, and the Vijfhuizer Bridge – Fort at Vijfhuizen loop from Haarlem Spaarnwoude is another easy option at 15.2 km.
What are some longer, more challenging no-traffic road cycling routes?
For a more extensive ride, consider routes like the Big Spotters Hill – Kick Pruijs Bridge loop from Haarlem Spaarnwoude, which is a moderate 80.4 km. Another moderate option is the View of Spaarndam – View of Uitgeestermeer loop from Haarlem, covering 51.9 km.
What attractions or landmarks can I see along the no-traffic road cycling routes?
Many routes pass by interesting sights. You can encounter historic windmills, such as Windmill De Adriaan, or explore areas with castles and estates. Highlights include the Ruins of Brederode Castle, the Duin en Kruidberg Estate, and various forts like Fort Zuidwijkermeer. Natural attractions like Zuid-Kennemerland National Park and Vogelmeer (Bird Lake) are also accessible.
Are there any circular no-traffic road bike routes around Haarlem?
Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the Fort at Vijfhuizen – Cycling Bridge Over the N205 loop from Haarlem is a popular circular route.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Haarlem?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 out of 5 stars from nearly 200 reviews. Cyclists often praise the quiet, traffic-free paths, the varied landscapes ranging from dunes to polders, and the well-maintained surfaces that are ideal for road biking.
When is the best time of year to go road cycling in Haarlem?
Spring (March to May) is particularly beautiful, as you can witness the vibrant flower fields of the nearby Bulb Region. Summer offers pleasant weather for longer rides. However, the region's well-paved routes are generally enjoyable throughout the year, with autumn providing colorful foliage and winter offering crisp, quiet rides, weather permitting.
Are there opportunities to combine cycling with exploring charming villages?
Absolutely. Many routes connect Haarlem with picturesque neighboring villages such as Spaarndam, Heemstede, and Bloemendaal. These villages often offer unique local character and provide excellent spots for a break, a coffee, or to explore local sights.
Can I find routes that offer a bit of elevation challenge?
While the Netherlands is generally flat, the region around Haarlem does offer some minor elevation changes. Areas like the Kennemerduinen and the Kopje van Bloemendaal provide gentle climbs that can add a bit of a challenge for those looking for it, without being overly strenuous.
Are there any specific routes that pass through national parks or nature reserves?
Yes, the Nationaal Park Zuid-Kennemerland is just a short ride from Haarlem's city center and offers routes through its diverse landscape of beaches, sand dunes, forests, and small lakes. This park is a fantastic option for experiencing nature while cycling.
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