Amsterdam: Cheese Tasting, Windmill & Countryside Bike Tour
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Food
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Group-Friendly
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Local guide
History
The Dutch countryside north of Amsterdam has been shaped by centuries of land reclamation and water management. Polders were created by draining lakes, forming fertile farmland protected by dikes and windmills.
Traditional farming villages like Durgerdam and Ransdorp developed around these polders, preserving historic churches, wooden houses, and a peaceful rural lifestyle unchanged for generations.
Highlights
- Taste fresh organic cow and sheep cheese made on a family farm
- Meet cows, sheep, and baby lambs up close
- Cycle along the historic Nieuwendammerdijk with IJ River views
- Visit De Gooyer Windmill and explore picturesque Durgerdam
- Enjoy a scenic ferry ride and stroopwafel snack
Full Description
Escape Amsterdam’s bustle on a relaxed 3-hour bike tour through the serene Waterland region. Cycle at an easy pace along quiet canals, past grazing meadows, and through charming villages, with frequent stops for photos and stories from your guide.
Visit a traditional farm where you’ll meet friendly animals and taste freshly made sheep and cow cheese paired with farm-fresh milk. The hands-on experience brings Dutch rural life to life in an authentic, intimate setting.
Ride along the elevated Nieuwendammerdijk dike, admiring historic wooden houses and panoramic views over the IJ. Pass the iconic De Gooyer Windmill, explore the quaint village of Durgerdam, and end with a short ferry ride back toward the city. This tour perfectly blends nature, culture, and local flavors.
Why Choose This Experience?
This small-group bike tour offers an authentic slice of Dutch countryside life, far from tourist crowds. The flat terrain and comfortable bikes make it accessible for all fitness levels, while the farm visit and cheese tasting provide a genuine local experience.
Led by a passionate English-speaking guide, you’ll gain insights into polder landscapes, windmill history, and traditional farming. It’s the ideal way to recharge in nature and return to Amsterdam refreshed.
What’s Included
- Comfortable 3-speed bike with handbrakes
- Expert English-speaking local guide
- Cheese tasting (fresh cow and sheep cheese)
- Farm visit with animal interaction
- Cold drinks, coffee, tea, and farm-fresh milk
- Traditional Dutch stroopwafel
- Scenic ferry ride (10 minutes)
- Photo stops at windmill and historic dike
- Helmet (optional, available on request)
- Rain poncho if needed
Itinerary
- Starting location: Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 101
- Bike toward Amsterdam Centraal and canals (photo stop)
- Pass Het Scheepvaartmuseum and De Gooyer Windmill (photo stop)
- Cycle along IJ River to Durgerdam (guided visit)
- Traditional village and Waterland polders (scenic ride)
- Dikhoeve Kaas V.O.F.: Farm tour, animal meet-and-greet, cheese tasting
- Nieuwendammerdijk (photo stop, scenic views)
- Noorderpark (pass by)
- Ferry ride (10 minutes)
- Arrive back at: Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 101
Pricing
From $44 per person
Meeting Point
Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 101, just a 5-minute walk from Central Station. Look for bright orange signage and guide in orange.
How to get there
- Walk 5 minutes from Amsterdam Central Station via Damrak
- Take tram 2, 11, 12, 13, or 17 to Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal stop
- Metro lines 51, 53, or 54 to Nieuwmarkt, then 3-minute walk
- Bike parking available nearby on Singel
Good to Know
What to bring
- Comfortable shoes
- Camera
- Water bottle
- Sunscreen or rain jacket (weather dependent)
Know before you go
- Tour operates rain or shine; ponchos provided if needed
- Suitable for ages 12+; younger children on request
- Flat terrain; no cycling experience required
- Arrive 15 minutes before departure
Reviews
- Loved our time with the guide; he shared great stories and the cheese tasting at the farm was a highlight of our trip.
- Fun escape from the city with varied scenery; the long ride felt easy on flat paths and the windmill views were stunning.
- Perfect mix of biking, history, and local flavors; a must-do to experience real Dutch countryside beyond Amsterdam.
Maps
Video
FAQ's
Is the bike tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the route is flat and follows dedicated bike paths at a relaxed pace. The 3-speed bikes have handbrakes and are easy to use, even for those new to cycling. The guide adjusts speed to the group and includes frequent breaks. No prior experience is needed, and the terrain is gentle throughout Waterland. Families with teens often join comfortably. The total distance is manageable within 3 hours. You’ll feel confident and supported from start to finish. This tour is designed for enjoyment, not endurance. Cycling is a natural part of Dutch life, and you’ll fit right in.
What happens if it rains during the tour?
The tour runs rain or shine, as light rain is common in Holland. Waterproof ponchos are provided free of charge. Bike seats are wiped down, and the guide ensures everyone stays comfortable. Most guests find the fresh air refreshing even in drizzle. Covered farm areas offer shelter during the cheese tasting. The ferry has indoor seating if needed. Only extreme weather cancels the tour, with full refunds. Rain often clears quickly, revealing beautiful skies. Many say a misty ride adds charm to the countryside.
Are vegetarian options available at the farm?
Absolutely; the cheese tasting features fresh cow and sheep milk cheeses, all naturally vegetarian-friendly. No meat is served during the snack portion. Plant-based milk alternatives are not available, but water, tea, and coffee are offered. The stroopwafel contains dairy but can be skipped. Guests with dietary needs are encouraged to inform the guide at the start. The farm focuses on dairy, not processed foods. You’ll still enjoy the full experience and animal interaction. Local snacks highlight regional traditions. Your comfort and inclusion are a priority.
Can I bring my own bike instead of using the tour’s?
Generally, no; the tour provides standardized 3-speed bikes for safety and group consistency. These are well-maintained and adjusted to your height on-site. Using personal bikes can complicate logistics, especially on the ferry. However, if you have special needs—like an e-bike due to mobility—contact the operator in advance. They may accommodate case-by-case. Helmets are optional and provided if desired. The included bikes ensure a smooth, hassle-free ride. Focus on the views, not equipment worries.
Is there a minimum group size or can I book solo?
Solo travelers are welcome; there’s no minimum group size. Tours run with as few as 2 participants and up to 15 for a personal feel. You’ll join others sharing the same interest in local culture and cycling. The guide fosters a friendly atmosphere from the start. Solo bookings often lead to new connections. If a tour has very low sign-ups, you may be offered an alternate date or full refund. Flexibility ensures quality every time. Book with confidence, whether alone or with friends.
