Haarlem, Halfweg, Spaarndam

During this cycle route, you can get your fill of steam between Hoofddorp and Halfweg. Discover how the Dutch benefited from steam at the historic Halfweg and Cruquius steam pumping stations. Learn about the reclamation of the Haarlemmermeer, through steam, at the Cruquius museum. The rest of the route takes you through the green polders to the picturesque village of Spaarndam and along the waters of the Mooie Nel to Haarlemmerliede, Penningsveer and the outskirts of Haarlem.

To blow off steam, you also cycle past fine recreational areas: Schoteroog, Spaarnwoude and right through the Haarlemmermeer Woods. If you need some relaxation during your cycling trip, these are ideal stopping points to take a break at one of the beaches or in the park. If you want to know much more about the origins of the Haarlemmermeer, visit the Historical Museum Haarlemmermeer in the middle of the Haarlemmermeer Woods.

To stay in the theme of pumping stations and reclamation, be sure to visit Molen de Hommel. This old Dutch mill used to drain the Kleine Polder below Haarlemmerliede. A little further than the windmill and a little further from the route is also the Molenplaspark. Another nice spot where you can relax for a while during your bike ride. So this cycling tour turned out to be an educational, yet relaxing day out!