Netherlands in Retrospect - Grampies on the Go - Again! Summer 2012 - CycleBlaze

September 14, 2012

Netherlands in Retrospect

Netherlands provided some of the most pleasant cycling, through flat agricultural areas on dedicated cycle paths. The buildings in many places were extremely interesting, and many towns had the desirable narrow streets, cafes, and historic sections.

On the other hand, too many flat open fields can be boring, and some parts of the country had strong winds that were a major hindrance.

Here is our assessment in more detail:

Pros

Cycle paths everywhere.
Bike route signage of three types (signs pointing to towns, point system, and lf routes) that between them will almost always get you there.
Most bike signage is consistent and reliable
Overall bicycle culture – interesting and inspirational
Many towns are extremely photogenic
All kinds of photogenic houses in the countryside
Almost everyone speaks English
Campgrounds plentiful in many areas
Smoker numbers semi-tolerable

Cons

Cycle paths often crowded
Motorbikes allowed on cycle paths
Cyclists not too polite
Motorists not too polite
Poor bakeries
Poor restaurants
Large areas of farms and towns – with no services/shops
Windy dunes area
Fear of bike theft

Today's ride: 50 km (31 miles)
Total: 6,211 km (3,857 miles)

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