Bike Tour: City to Sea - long - 5 days

Arrive in Groningen, check in then take off to see the city. Rest and relax on a terrace at the Vismarkt or climb up Martini Tower for fab views of the city.

Take in a bit of the city then roll out into peaceful green countryside. The busy university vibe gives way to wide-open space and marvellous mound villages like Middelstum and Kantens appear. This is the real Hogeland, all lush and green. The far-reaching views from Usquert reveal Noordpolderzijl dike with the Wadden Sea hiding just behind it. Pause for some refreshment at ‘t Zielhoes then cycle a section outside the dike to challenge yourself against the wind. Then take time to rest and relax back in Pieterburen. 

Wake up in peaceful Pieterburen to another splendid day of cycling. Ride the Broekstermaar to Verhildersum Estate, marvel at the mound village of Ulrum and check out Houwerzijlt tea factory. Cycle the Rietdiep to the former port at Zoutkamp then turn north and cycle at water’s edge to Lauwersmeer National Park. Spot some birds, hit the beach or try the catch of the day at Lauwersoog fish market. Then circle back to Pieterburen riding inside the dike or venture outside the dike and cycle along the Wad. All told, a great day!

Make your way to Kaakhorn, hidden among huge potato fields and vast expanses of grain. Stumble upon ‘unknown’ villages like Westernieland and Den Andel, secrets known only to artists. Roll to Onderdendam’s beautiful location on the Damsterdiep and follow the water’s edge to Winsum, recently voted the Netherlands’ most beautiful village. Wind through waterscapes on the Reitdiep / Hunzedal then catch a boat for lunch at the famous Cafe Hammingh or Garnwerd 'aan Zee'. Pedal the Pieterpad pilgrimage route back into Groningen city and take to a terrace on the Grote Markt or Forum rooftop.

..... Is it the last day already? Time flies! If you can, try a tour of Zuidlaardermeer / Paterswoldsemeer and dip into the neighbouring province of Drenthe.