Through the North Holland landscape to Alkmaar

You will drive around Castricum to the Alkmaardermeer also known as Akerslotermeer. This water is part of the route for ships sailing from the Zaanstreek to the Noordhollandsch Kanaal, it is a recreational area and it is important for the water management of North Holland. Cycling through some towns, past fields and meadows, you will relatively soon reach Alkmaar. This city has a historic center with nearly 400 national monuments. The city is known as 'the cheese city'. A traditional cheese market is still held weekly from early April to early September. The canals, cafes, stores and courtyards mean you won't get bored here. After a break in the center, don't forget to pick up the route again. You cycle along Het Maalwater through a beautiful nature reserve. Views over meadows and small waters give you a sense of tranquility. Also in the dunes you will experience the tranquility of nature. The Duin en Bosch estate is also considered its own residence. This dates back to the early 20th century when psychiatric hospital Duin en Bosch was set up. Not one building was erected, but dozens of smaller buildings were spread across the estate. This created a community of its own. After a fine route with a break in Alkmaar, it is great to relax again.