Highlights of the Hanseatic region Bike & Barge Tour

This tour leads you through a region that’s one of the most beloved among Dutch cyclists. Come and explore it yourself, by bike and barge. Every day while cycling, you’ll get to know more of its numerous historical cities, beautiful river landscapes and diverse natural areas. Every evening, you’ll return to your floating hotel barge, docked in a picturesque harbor along the route.

You’ll cycle at your own pace, while your well trained tour leader is only a phone call away for your questions, problems or emergencies. The area you’ll be traversing was shaped over millennia by numerous rivers and streams. It thrived during the Middle Ages, when the rivers Rhine and IJssel were among the most important trade routes in Europe. Many of the cities along their banks were members of the Hanseatic League. This confederation protected the economic interests of its members in large parts of the Netherlands, Germany and Northern Europe. The affluence of those years is visible everywhere in abundant civil and religious architecture. Your tour starts in the delightful city of Amsterdam. From there, you’ll sail and cycle to many larger and smaller Hanseatic towns like Arnhem, Deventer, Zutphen, Kampen, Harderwijk and Elburg. The natural beauty of the Rhine valley and its enchanting tributary, the IJssel, will duly impress you. Another attraction along the way are the so-called Bordering Lakes. These are situated between the “old” mainland with many beautiful harbor towns, and the “new” reclaimed land of the province of Flevoland, that was once the bottom of the sea. The flat terrain in the 125 km long IJssel valley makes this a perfect tour for those who love to cycle leisurely along many winding trails in a diverse area.

Tour Character: Level 1 Independent cycling

Easy tours, very flat terrain. During this trip there is an expert and experienced tour leader on board. He or she will discuss the next day’s cycling routes on a daily basis and provide you with tips and information about the route. You will cycle the tours independently and at your own pace using a detailed cycling map, GPS directions via the free Ride With GPS app and printed route descriptions (available on board). The tour leader will also cycle the routes, so they will be riding nearby and can be reached by phone in case of emergencies, problems or questions

Accommodation:

The cozy river cruiser offers a home away from home for about 67 passengers. The ship has been partly renovated and restyled in the winter of 2018/19. All of the 33 cabins are well-equipped and perfect for a good night’s’ sleep. In the large salon on the upper deck, with large panoramic windows around, you will find the restaurant, bar and lounge area. This is a great spot for some serious relaxing, drinking and eating after a day on the pedals! Unless there is sun, then you should go to the partially covered sun deck, where chairs and sun loungers invite for a stay.

• The lower deck features 21 twin cabins. There are 12 regular twin cabins (9m² / 97sq.ft.) at the back and middle of the lower deck, each with two single low beds (200x80cm / 78×31 inches).
• At the front of the lower deck are nine newly-renovated “superior” cabins (9.5–11.5 m² / 102–124sq.ft.). Two superior cabins feature a double bed (200x160cm / 78×62 inches), while the other seven feature two separate beds set together as a hotel-style bed (200×160 cm / 78×62 inches). If requested in advance, these hotel-style beds can be arranged as two separate single beds (200x80cm / 78×31 inches).
• All lower deck cabins have a small window that can be opened.
• The upper deck offers 12 twin cabins (9m² / 97sq.ft.): 10 cabins with two single low beds (200x80cm / 78×31 inches), and two with a double bed (200x140cm / 78×55 inches). One upper deck cabin has the possibility for a third bunk bed (above one of the beds). All upper deck cabins have a window that can be opened.
• All 33 cabins aboard have an individual climate control system, mini-safe, small wardrobe, hair dryer, 230V sockets and a private bathroom with shower, toilet and basin.

Included in the Bike and Barge Tour:

• 8 days/7 nights
• 7x Breakfast
• Packed lunches
• 7 x 3-course dinner
• Coffee and tea on board till 4pm
• Welcome drink
• Use of bed linen and towels
• Daily cleaning of the cabin
• Daily briefings
• Climate controlled cabins
• Semi Guided cycling tours (independent cycling, tour leader is available for questions and/or emergencies)
• Some short walking tours
• Fees for ferries
• Maps and notes for cycling tours (1 set per cabin)
• GPS tracks
• Use of a waterproof pannier bag
• Wi-Fi is available in the restaurant - data use is not included

Not included in the tour:

• Drinks
• Coffee and tea on board after 4pm
• Bicycle rental or E-bike rental
• Helmet rental (10 EUR)
• Personal insurances
• Gratuities (at your discretion)
• Entrance fees and excursions
• Fees for ferries
• Transfers to/from the docking place
• Parking fees

Notes:

• All distances shown are “approximate distances” of recommended bike tours.
• Cabin upgrades available (superior lower deck or twin/ double upper deck cabins) on request only
• Canal cruise Amsterdam: Ticket for a 1-hour canal cruise through Amsterdam – special price for guests: € 18 (at the ticket desk approx.: € 22). Please book your ticket in advance and you can collect it on board of your ship on the first day of the tour.
• On some days you can choose between a longer and a shorter cycling route. Please note that on the shorter routes you may not be able to visit all the highlights mentioned.
• If you prefer not to cycle on a particular day, you’re welcome to stay on board and relax while the ship cruises to the next landing place.
• The tour itinerary and route are subject to possible changes due to nautical, technical or meteorological reasons, or other unforeseen events.
• On the arrival day, you can leave your luggage on board the ship from 11.00 am.
• A detailed cycling map, route tips and a GPS app are available for guests. You cycle individually and at your own pace. The tour guide is always available via cell phone in case of questions, breakdowns or emergencies. 

Arrival/parking/departure:

• Parking in Amsterdam (valet parking): prices and pre-booking on request.
• Departures Saturday only

If you would like to rent a bike (90 EUR ) or e-bike (225 EUR) helmet (10 EUR), please contact our office when booking: [email protected]

(2025 PRICES) If you would like to rent a bike (91 EUR ) or e-bike (245 EUR) helmet (10 EUR), please contact our office when booking: [email protected]

Slow Tours offers a number of other Bike & Barge Tours in Europe

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