The LF Zuiderzeeroute circles the former Zuiderzee through a landscape shaped by water and the Netherlands’ efforts to manage it. Nederland Fietsland presents the ride as a journey through fishing villages, historic trading towns, reclaimed land and major waterworks, with Amsterdam as the starting point for its suggested stages.
A journey around the former sea
Nederland Fietsland’s suggested clockwise itinerary begins in Amsterdam and heads through Hoorn and Medemblik before crossing towards Friesland. It then continues through Workum and Lemmer, turns inland towards Kraggenburg and Elburg, and returns via Spakenburg to Amsterdam. Riders can join the circuit wherever it suits them.
The route brings together places once connected by the Zuiderzee. Its highlights include fishing villages and old trading towns, alongside reclaimed land and the former island of Schokland. The Afsluitdijk is central to the story: the barrier helped transform the former sea into the freshwater IJsselmeer.
From North Holland to Friesland
The Medemblik–Workum section offers a particularly clear view of the area’s changing relationship with water. Between Medemblik and Den Oever the route passes through the Wieringermeerpolder, reclaimed before the Afsluitdijk was completed. Near Den Oever is Dijkgatbos, where the dike was breached during the Second World War.
Across the Afsluitdijk, Makkum recalls its former trading role in its old warehouses, merchants’ houses and weighing house. The route then continues towards Workum. Allow time to explore these towns as well as the open water landscapes between them.
Old harbours and reclaimed land
From Lemmer, the suggested route heads inland, with stretches on or beside a dike. Lemmer was once a major fishing port; today its waterfront reflects its role in water sports. Kuinre and Blokzijl were also ports on the former sea before the Noordoostpolder was reclaimed.
Kuinre’s old harbour now lies in the Kuinderbos. It is a short diversion from the route, with a sign indicating the way. Further on, the route passes Vollenhove’s harbour and the Vollenhoverkanaal, which separates Overijssel from Flevoland.
Planning the ride
The route is signposted in both directions. Nederland Fietsland suggests eight stages, but the circular itinerary also lends itself to choosing a shorter section. Carry an up-to-date map and check ferry timetables before departure; ferries form part of the route.
The Afsluitdijk needs special attention. Nederland Fietsland reports that work affects the crossing and that the bicycle bus is on its winter break from 1 November 2026 until 1 March 2027, when the dike cannot be crossed. Check the current route updates before making plans, particularly for the crossing and any temporary diversions.