Amsterdam: Cheese Tasting, Windmill & Countryside Bike Tour

If you’re hunting for a way to escape the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam without leaving the city behind, this bike tour offers a refreshing glimpse into the tranquil Dutch countryside. With reviews praising its scenic routes, knowledgeable guides, and authentic farm experiences, it’s clear this tour hits a sweet spot for many travelers.

What we love about this experience: First, the chance to meet farm animals like cows, sheep, and lambs up close. Second, the delicious cheese tasting made from fresh, local ingredients — a real highlight for food lovers. Third, the scenic cycling routes along historic dikes and peaceful canals that make every photo an Instagram winner.

One aspect to consider is that this tour doesn’t include a visit inside the windmill itself, which might disappoint those hoping for a close-up of the milling process. The exterior views and historical context are still worth the visit.

This trip is perfect for those who enjoy gentle outdoor activities, want to learn about Dutch rural life, or simply need a scenic break from city sightseeing. It’s especially suited for travelers who are comfortable on a bike and appreciate authentic, farm-to-table experiences.

Good To Know

• Authentic farm experience with close encounters with farm animals
• Delicious cheese tasting made fresh on-site, offering genuine regional flavors
• Scenic cycling routes past historic dikes, canals, and picturesque villages
• Expert guides providing insightful commentary and local stories
• Value for money with included ferry rides, cheese, and farm visits
• Accessible for most who are comfortable biking and prepared for the weather

You can check if your dates are available here:

Discovering the Dutch Countryside by Bike

This tour offers a balanced mix of city sightseeing and rural immersion, all within a comfortable 3-hour window. The experience begins at a convenient starting point just a five-minute walk from Amsterdam Centraal Station, making it easy to fit into your busy schedule. Once you hop onto your comfortable, easy-to-ride 3-speed bike, you’re set for a relaxed journey through some of North Holland’s most photogenic landscapes.

The first section takes you through the vibrant city streets, including the canals of Amsterdam and the area around Het Scheepvaartmuseum. These are perfect spots for quick photo stops and to appreciate the city’s charming waterways. As the tour moves away from the city center, the scenery quickly shifts to open meadows, winding canals, and quiet villages.

The Farm Experience: Cheese, Animals, and Authenticity

One of the standout moments, based on multiple reviews, is the visit to a traditional Dutch farm. Here, you’re welcomed to meet cows, sheep, and even baby lambs—an authentic peek into rural farm life. The farm’s cheese tasting is a highlight, with fresh cow and sheep cheese served right from the source. Several reviewers noted that the cheese was “really yummy,” and appreciated the chance to sample cheese made on-site.

Beyond the cheese, you’ll find farm-fresh milk, and some tours even include complimentary drinks like coffee or tea, perfect for re-energizing during the stop. The farm visit is described as relaxed and friendly, giving you a chance to connect with the animals and learn about local craftsmanship. One reviewer even remarked, “It was really good experience, the highlight is the bike ride and to be included in the bike culture of Amsterdam.”

Scenic Cycling: Dikes, Villages, and Canal Views

The cycling routes are designed to offer a fair share of tranquility and beauty. The tour takes you along the historic Nieuwendammerdijk, lined with charming houses and offering stunning views over the IJ River. Riding on this dike, you get a real sense of the Dutch landscape—flat, open, and dotted with small boats and farmhouses.

The picturesque village of Ransdorp is another key stop. The village’s iconic church tower and quiet streets evoke a sense of timeless Dutch charm. Visitors describe it as a peaceful retreat, perfect for snapping photos and soaking in the rural ambiance.

Throughout the ride, you’ll pass by lush green fields, serene canals, and classic polder landscapes that define the Dutch countryside. The tour also includes a scenic ferry ride across the IJ River, offering a different perspective on the city and its surroundings.

Visiting the Windmill and Other Highlights

While the tour features a visit to the De Gooyer Windmill, it’s important to note that the visit is a photo stop and exterior viewing only. The windmill is one of the most recognizable sights in Amsterdam, and multiple reviews praised the opportunity to take photos here. The guide shares some insights about traditional Dutch milling, but access inside the windmill isn’t included.

Other stops include a quick photo opportunity at Noorderpark and a visit to Durgerdam, a quaint fishing village with harbor views. These stops are designed to give you a glimpse of local life and a chance to stretch your legs.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Practical Details: What to Expect and Considerations

This tour runs approximately three hours, making it a manageable time commitment for most travelers. It’s priced at around $45 per person, which many reviews consider excellent value given the included ferry, cheese tasting, farm visit, and scenic rides.

The group size tends to be small and friendly, with knowledgeable guides like Skip, Santiago, or Ari leading the way. Guests consistently praise their professionalism, friendliness, and storytelling skills. One reviewer noted, “Skip was a great guide, the tour through the country was scenic and quiet compared to the city center.”

The cycling itself is mostly flat, suitable for most fitness levels, but you should be comfortable on a bike. The tour doesn’t specify as unsuitable for non-bike riders, but if you’re nervous about biking in traffic or uneven terrain, consider whether you’re comfortable riding on city streets and country roads.

Weather-wise, it’s best to bring comfortable shoes, camera, and water, and dress appropriately for rain or shine. Some reviews mention that even in windy or rainy conditions, the overall experience remained positive, largely due to the scenic beauty and friendly guides.

The Food and Drink Experience

The cheese tasting is a major draw, but the tour also offers local snacks, regional food, and refreshments during the farm visit. Several reviews highlight how much they enjoyed the cheese and the farm-fresh milk, with one saying, “The cheese was really nice, and it was great to see where it comes from.”

The inclusion of stroopwafels adds a sweet Dutch touch, perfect for a quick treat after cycling through the countryside. The drinks and snacks help make the trip feel well-rounded and give you a real taste of local flavors.

The Ferry Ride and Scenic Views

The 10-minute ferry ride is a simple yet enjoyable part of the journey, providing a fresh perspective of the city and its waterways. Guests have commented that this little boat trip enhances the experience, offering a peaceful moment to relax and take in the views.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a blend of outdoor activity, food, and local culture. It suits those who are comfortable on a bike and want to explore beyond the busy city streets. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy scenic rides and farm visits will find plenty to love here.

However, if you’re not a confident cyclist or prefer indoor sightseeing, this might not be the best fit. Also, those expecting extensive inside visits to windmills or farms might find it slightly limited, as it’s more about exterior views and tasting.

The Sum Up

This Amsterdam countryside bike tour offers a wonderful snapshot of rural life combined with scenic beauty and delicious local treats. The knowledgeable guides, relaxed pace, and authentic farm experiences make it a standout for those looking for a more genuine connection to Dutch culture.

The price reflects great value, with the inclusion of ferry rides, cheese tastings, and picturesque stops that make the experience memorable without feeling rushed. It’s a fantastic way for travelers to see a different side of Amsterdam, away from the crowded streets and into the serene countryside.

Perfect for outdoor lovers, foodies, and those wanting a peaceful escape, this tour provides a well-rounded, authentic Dutch experience that you’ll remember long after the pedals stop turning.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is family-friendly, children should be comfortable riding a bike and able to handle the pace. The farm visit and scenic routes make it engaging for kids, but check with the provider for age restrictions.

Do I need to bring my own bike?
No, the tour provides a comfortable, 3-speed bike with handbrakes included in the price. The bikes are suited for most riders and are generally well-maintained.

What should I wear?
Dress weather-appropriate and wear comfortable shoes suitable for cycling. It’s recommended to bring a camera and water, especially if it’s sunny or rainy.

Is the windmill interior visit included?
No, the windmill is only viewed from the outside as part of the sightseeing stops. You can take photos and learn about Dutch milling, but inside access isn’t part of this tour.

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry lasts approximately 10 minutes, providing a scenic transition between different parts of the countryside and the city.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This detailed review aims to help you decide if this Dutch countryside bike tour is the right outdoor experience for your trip to Amsterdam. Whether you’re a foodie, nature lover, or simply seeking a laid-back day outside the city, it offers a compelling mix of scenery, culture, and delicious bites.

You can check if your dates are available here: