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 adorably Dutch!
Twiske was packed, it seemed like half of Amsterdam had our idea in mind but that’s no surprise because nature, sunlight, and fresh air are so good for the soul. Given the unusual circumstances of pandemic life, we opted to keep our distance from the crowds and avoided the busy swimming areas. We cycled to the northernmost point to find a secluded spot. Eventually, the sound of screaming and splashing children faded, away, and it was just us, our snacks, and a small herd of cows. We listened to the birds chirp while watching mini sailboats float past. Isolating in my apartment for the last few months has been incredibly bizarre, and like many others, I've struggled with the shocking changes to life as we knew it. Keeping my mental health balanced is a priority during this complicated time, and nature has always been my best source of inspiration.
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.
A long, sunny bike ride through nature and a fresh air picnic with friends was exactly what I needed to get my spirit back on track! What a wonderful day.
““I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order.”
”
HOW TO GET TO TWISKE FROM AMSTERDAM
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!
