The best traffic-free bike rides around Leiden

There are over 50 dedicated traffic-free touring cycling routes around Leiden, offering a wide variety of distances and experiences. Most of these routes are classified as easy or moderate, making them accessible for many cyclists.

The no-traffic routes around Leiden showcase diverse Dutch landscapes. You'll primarily cycle through flat polder areas with intricate waterways and historic windmills, such as those found in the Kagerplassen region. Many routes also lead to the North Sea coast, offering rides through varied dune areas and along the coastline. In spring, you can also experience the vibrant flower fields of the Bollenstreek.

Yes, many of the traffic-free routes around Leiden are ideal for beginners and families. The region is largely flat, with well-developed cycling infrastructure and dedicated bike paths, ensuring a safe and accessible experience. Routes like the Vlietland Terrace – Vlietland Drawbridge loop from Leiden Lammenschans are classified as easy and offer gentle rides.

The spring months (April-May) are particularly spectacular due to the blooming flower fields, offering a vibrant backdrop to your ride. However, the flat polder landscapes and coastal routes are enjoyable from spring through early autumn, with pleasant weather for cycling. The extensive network of paths makes it a good destination for much of the year.

Many routes pass by significant landmarks and natural features. You can cycle past historic windmills, explore the charming canals of Leiden, or visit attractions like the Castle of Leiden or Keukenhof Castle. Coastal routes offer views of the North Sea and dunes, including the Hollands Duin — Coepelduynen Cycle Path. The city itself boasts the Hortus Botanicus and the historic Burcht van Leiden.

Yes, many of the traffic-free touring cycling routes around Leiden are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. An example is the Towpath along the Oude Rijn – Drawbridge over the Does loop from Leiden Lammenschans, which offers a pleasant loop through the countryside.

Leiden is well-connected by public transport, particularly train. Many routes, such as the Katwijk Lighthouse – Beautiful houses by the water loop, conveniently start from Leiden Centraal station, making them easily accessible for those arriving by train. Other routes may start from stations like Leiden Lammenschans.

The komoot community highly rates the cycling experience in Leiden, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's flat, well-maintained, and extensive network of traffic-free bike paths, the picturesque polder landscapes, and the charming historic towns and coastal views. The ease of access and the blend of nature and culture are frequently highlighted.

Absolutely. Several no-traffic routes lead directly to the North Sea coast and its beaches. For instance, the Katwijk Lighthouse – Beautiful houses by the water loop from Leiden Centraal takes you towards the coast, offering a traffic-free way to reach seaside resorts like Katwijk and Noordwijk and enjoy the dune areas.

Yes, cycling past historic windmills is a quintessential Dutch experience readily available on the no-traffic routes around Leiden. Many tours traverse the polder landscapes where these iconic structures are abundant. For example, the View of the De Valk windmill – De Valk Windmill (Leiden) loop from Leiden Centraal specifically highlights one of Leiden's famous windmills.

The majority of the traffic-free touring routes around Leiden are classified as easy (26 routes) or moderate (24 routes). This is due to the largely flat terrain and well-maintained paths, making them suitable for a wide range of fitness levels. There are only a few routes considered difficult, often due to longer distances rather than significant elevation changes.