Elf Cities Route cycling

The famous Elfstedentocht is not only for ice skaters! You can also discover the eleven historic cities of Friesland by bike. The Elf Cities cycling route takes you past atmospheric city centres, characteristic villages and the varied Frisian landscape. With a total distance of approximately 258 kilometres, it is a wonderful challenge for cycling enthusiasts. Prefer a shorter tour? You can also cycle the route in different stages.

What can you expect from the Elf Cities cycling route?

Cycle past all eleven Frisian cities

The route traditionally starts in Leeuwarden and then takes you past Sneek, IJlst, Sloten, Stavoren, Hindeloopen, Workum, Bolsward, Harlingen, Franeker and Dokkum. Each city has its own character, with historic buildings, pleasant outdoor cafés and special sights. Take your time along the way to get off your bike and discover the cities.

Enjoy the Frisian landscape

Between the cities you cycle through expansive meadows, along lakes, canals and characteristic Frisian villages. The route shows you different sides of Friesland: from the water-rich southwest to the wide-open landscapes along the Wadden Sea coast.

Cycle the Elfstedentocht in stages

You do not, of course, have to complete the entire route in one go. The Elf Cities cycling route is divided into four stages, ranging from approximately 51 to 80 kilometres. This way, you can spread the tour over several days and fully enjoy the surroundings along the way.

On Friesland.nl you will find the four stages, route descriptions and useful tips for along the way.

Collect the eleven stamps

Would you like to make your cycling tour extra special? With the official Elf Cities stamp card, you can collect a stamp in all eleven cities. Have you completed the entire route and filled your card? Then you can receive a certificate as a memento of your own Elfstedentocht.

You can find more information about the stamp card on Waterland van Friesland.

Practical information

• Distance: approximately 258 kilometres

• Starting point: traditionally in Leeuwarden, but you can start at any point you wish

• Route: past all eleven Frisian cities, to be followed via the cycling junction network and special Elf Cities signs

• Duration: depending on your pace, for example spread over three to five days

• Suitable for: recreational and sporty cyclists, with a suitable stage layout

• Tip: check the route in advance and any ferry departure times along the way.

You can view and download the full route via Friesland.nl – Elf Cities cycling route.

Cycling the Elf Cities Route from Hotel Hardegarijp

Van der Valk Hotel Hardegarijp-Leeuwarden is an excellent base for exploring the Elf Cities Route and the rest of Friesland. From our hotel you can easily reach Leeuwarden and Dokkum, two of the eleven Frisian cities.

Would you like to get on a bike yourself? At our hotel you can rent city bikes and electric bikes. We also have a covered bicycle shed where you can charge your electric bike. This way, you can set off well prepared.

After an active day you can enjoy a dinner in our restaurant and a comfortable overnight stay.