One of the most beautiful nature reserves in the Netherlands begins right behind the beach in Zandvoort. In Zuid-Kennemerland National Park, you can cycle from the surf to high dunes, quiet forests, dune lakes, and sweeping vistas within half an hour. And the best part is: you don't need to plan anything, because from our locations, you can hop straight into the park on your bike.
We have been renting bicycles to day-trippers and holidaymakers in Zandvoort and Bloemendaal aan Zee for years, so we know the best routes and which bike suits which trip. Below, you can read what makes the park so special, which route to take (short or longer), which bike is most comfortable, and what to look out for along the way.
Table of contents:
- What makes South Kennemerland so special?
- Which bike do you choose for the dunes?
- Short route: Zandvoort to Bloemendaal aan Zee
- Longer route: through the dunes to Overveen and Haarlem
- What you see along the way
- Practical on the go
- Frequently Asked Questions
What makes South Kennemerland so special?
South Kennemerland National Park stretches between Zandvoort, Bloemendaal, Haarlem, and IJmuiden. It is a surprisingly varied area: high dunes, dune lakes, deciduous forests, and open grasslands, all right by the sea. It is precisely this variety that makes it so popular with cyclists, because in a single ride you see the beach, the dunes, and the forest.
The park is literally around the corner from Zandvoort and Bloemendaal aan Zee. You don't need a car and can easily go from the hustle and bustle of the beach to the tranquility of nature. There is a suitable route for families, couples, and sporty cyclists alike.
Moreover, it is quiet and green, with a fine network of paved and semi-paved cycle paths. Whether you want to tour around for an hour or make a whole day of it, the area offers something beautiful for every level.
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Which bike do you choose for the dunes?
The dunes demand just a little more from you than a flat loop through the village. The paths undulate and feature a few climbs, and some sections are unpaved. With the right bike beneath you, that is precisely the fun of the ride.
For most people, an electric bike is ideal: you pedal effortlessly over the dune tops and have energy left to enjoy the view. If you really want to take it tough, even over unpaved paths, a fatbike with its thick tires is highly recommended.
Are you going with the family? Two young children sit comfortably in an electric cargo bike, and older children ride along themselves on a 20 or 24-inch children's bike. If you want to stop in the dunes for a bite to eat along the way, bring a picnic bike. Unsure what suits you best? Check out our full range of bike rentals in Zandvoort.
Short route: Zandvoort to Bloemendaal aan Zee
Do you want to take it easy, or are you traveling with young children? Then the coastal route towards Bloemendaal aan Zee is a great choice. From our location, you cycle north along the boulevard and the edge of the dunes, with the sea on your left. The cycle path is clearly signposted and there is little car traffic.
In Bloemendaal aan Zee, stop for an ice cream or some fries, and then cycle back the same way, or turn it into a short loop via the inner dune edge. Allow one and a half to two hours, including a stop. A pleasant trip to soak up the atmosphere of the coast and the first dunes without requiring much effort.
If you start from our location in Bloemendaal aan Zee, you can ride this loop in the exact reverse direction, or immediately take a short loop through the adjacent dunes.
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Longer route: through the dunes to Overveen and Haarlem
If you have a bit more time and energy, drive deeper into the park from Zandvoort towards Parnassia and the woods near Overveen. Along the way, you alternate between open dunes and shady forest paths, and the elevation changes make for pleasantly varied scenery. A popular option is a loop through the dunes to Overveen and back along the coast.
If you want to make it a day trip, cycle on to Haarlem. From Zandvoort, it takes about 25 minutes, after which you can take a stroll through the center and enjoy a drink on a terrace at the Grote Markt. Then, take a different route back to the coast. For these longer trips, an e-bike or fatbike is a great choice, so you can still enjoy that final dip in the sea at the end of the day.
What you see along the way
South Kennemerland is not only beautiful, but also surprisingly wild. Wisents (European bison) live in the Kraansvlak, and you will encounter Scottish Highland cattle and Konik horses grazing the landscape in a natural way. With a bit of luck, you might spot them from your bike, naturally at a safe distance from the paths.
In addition, you cycle past clear dune lakes, colorful dune plants, and viewpoints with views over the dune tops all the way to the sea. In spring and summer, the dunes are in full bloom, while in autumn the forests turn beautiful colors. Each season has its own charm.
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Practical on the go
A few things that make your trip much more pleasant:
- The national park is freely accessible; you do not need to buy a ticket to cycle there. However, do stay on the signposted cycle paths, as large parts of the dunes are a protected nature reserve.
- Bring plenty of water, especially on warm days. There is little shade in the dunes, and it can get warmer than you expect.
- Pack a raincoat in your bag, even under a blue morning sky. The coastal weather can change quickly.
- Keep a safe distance from the bison, Highland cattle, and horses in the grazing areas. They remain wild animals.
- Preferably start in the morning. The trails are quieter then, and you have the whole day.
- A helmet is not an unnecessary luxury for children who cycle on their own; you can rent one from us separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a bike ride through South Kennemerland from Zandvoort take?
That is up to you. A leisurely coastal loop towards Bloemendaal aan Zee and back takes one and a half to two hours, while a trip towards Overveen or Haarlem can easily fill half a day to a full day.
Do I have to pay an entrance fee for the national park?
No, Zuid-Kennemerland National Park is freely accessible. However, always follow the signposted cycle paths, as part of the dunes is a protected nature reserve.
Which bike is best to rent for the dunes?
For the climbs in the dunes, an electric bike is the most comfortable. If you also want to ride on rougher, unpaved paths, a fat bike is a great choice. For families, there are cargo bikes and children's bikes.
Is the route suitable for children?
Certainly. With young children, choose the short coastal route to Bloemendaal aan Zee; older children who cycle regularly can handle the longer dune route just fine, provided you build in enough breaks.
Can I see the bison while cycling?
Bison live in the Kraansvlak, and with a bit of luck you might spot them or other grazers such as Scottish Highlanders from the paths. Always keep a safe distance; they are wild animals.
How far in advance do I need to reserve a bike?
In July and August, reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends. Outside of the high season, there is usually sufficient stock.
Personal advice
Not sure which route and bike suit your day? Drop by our location in Zandvoort or Bloemendaal aan Zee, or give us a call. We'll look at the weather and your plans together, recommend the best route, and make sure everything is ready. Take a look at the selection on our bike rental page or contact us.