Highlights of the Hanseatic region Bike & Barge Tour

The Hansa Highlights Tour will take you through the central region of the Netherlands, a region shaped over millennia by the numerous rivers and streams that crisscross the area. You will cycle through the Rhine valley and its very beautiful tributary the IJssel River, cross the so-called border lakes region of the Netherlands and will visit fascinating cities and villages such as Amsterdam, Arnhem, Deventer, Kampen, Harderwijk and Elburg, to name a few. Given the flat terrain along the 125km IJssel valley, the tour is perfect for anyone who wants to leisurely cycle along the many winding trails in this diverse area. The natural beauty of the region is sure to impress as will the Hanseatic towns of the region that flourished during the Middle Ages when the IJssel was one of the most important trade routes in Europe. Another attraction is the so-called border lakes, between the “old” land with many beautiful harbour towns and the “new” land of the Flevoland, which was once the bottom of the sea, before the land was reclaimed in the 1950s and 1960s. In this area, you will leisurely cycle through a number of picturesque fishing harbours where life seemingly moves at a much slower pace. For many Dutch, this probably not so well-known area is one of their favourite cycling areas.

Accommodation:

The barge has ten twin cabins (10 m² – 108 sq.ft.) with two separate beds. In two of the cabins, a bunk bed as the third bed is possible (on request). Each cabin has a recently renovated bathroom with a shower, toilet and basin. Windows can be opened and the cabins have ventilation and central heating. A hairdryer is available on request.

On the upper deck you will find the large and cozy lounge with the bar and dining area. Wi-Fi is available. The barge also has two large sundecks with storage room for the bicycles and sitting areas with tables and chairs, where you can have a drink. On nice evenings, or while cruising, you can enjoy the scenery from here. Furthermore, equipped with a double-roof of solar panels, the barge runs for a great part on green energy! This is not only environment-friendly, but also comfortable for guests: since the ship hardly needs to use a generator to produce electricity, the nights are still and quiet on board.

Included in the Bike and Barge Tour:

• 8 days/7 nights
• Breakfast
• Packed lunches
• 7 x 3-course dinner
• Coffee and tea on board
• Welcome drink
• Use of bed linen and towels
• 1 x cleaning of the cabin during the tour
• Daily briefings
• Fully guided cycling tours
• 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

Not included in the tour:

• Drinks
• Bicycle rental or E-bike rental
• Helmet rental
• Personal insurances
• Gratuities (at your discretion)
• Entrance fees and excursions
• Transfers to/from the docking place
• Parking fees

Notes:

• All distances shown are “approximate distances” of recommended bike tours.
• The daily cycling tours will be accompanied by a knowledgeable and multi-lingual tour leader.
• During the days when 2 bicycle options are possible, the tour leader will make a choice for the longer or the shorter option together with the group.
• Not all mentioned highlights will be visited during the short bike option.
• You can also choose to ride individually with the help of a map and route notes (available onboard). GPS tracks will be sent to you 4 weeks before the start date of the tour.
• In case you prefer a day of rest, you can skip the bike tour and relax on board while cruising to the next town
• Canal cruise Amsterdam: Ticket for a 1-hour canal cruise through Amsterdam– special price for guests: 14 EUR (at the ticket desk approx.: 18 EUR). Please book your ticket in advance and you can collect it onboard your ship on the first day of the tour

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 (85 EUR ) or e-bike (185 EUR) helmet (10 EUR), please contact our office when booking: [email protected]

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

Read More