Discovering together
The regional produce route in De Beemster is a cycle ride of about 29 kilometres along farm shops and stalls. Along the way, you taste fresh regional products such as cheese, milk, vegetables and fruit straight from the land. Thanks to the fertile clay soil, there is something different to discover in every season.
The Beemster is one of those places where I automatically slow down. Straight roads, wide views and on the way there is always something to stop at. I let go of planning and just cycle. Stop at a stall, taste something, have a chat and move on. This is one of those days that becomes extra fun when you experience it together: enjoy the road and see where you stop.
Places I like to stop at along the way
On my way through De Beemster, there are places where I almost automatically stop. To taste something, look around or just because it is pleasant there. These are moments that interrupt the cycling and shape the day.
What makes this regional products route so nice for me is that it lends itself perfectly to doing together. You don't have to plan anything: just cycle, stop where it's pleasant and enjoy everything you encounter along the way.
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1. Fruit stalls full of Beemster flavours
Soon after boarding, I pass the first fruit stalls. Apples, pears and cherries are displayed along the road, fresh from the land. Perfect for a snack on the road or to enjoy later at home. Chances are you will leave with more than planned!
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2. Cheese tasting
2. Cheese tasting
A route through De Beemster is not complete without cheese. At Kaasboerderij Groot, it is almost impossible not to stop for a moment. Inside, I taste various cheeses and outside I stop for a moment by the large Dutch wooden shoes. Of course, at least one piece of cheese goes with me for drinks later.
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3. At Mothers in the Kosterij: perfect place for a break
3. At Mothers in the Kosterij: perfect place for a break
After all that cycling, it is time for a break. At Moeders in de Kosterij in Middenbeemster, you can enjoy homemade pastries and good coffee. The shop alone is a treat to walk through, with so many beautiful products from the region together. This is one of those places where you catch up together and look around quietly.
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4. Vegetable farmer Jos van der Lee
4. Vegetable farmer Jos van der Lee
After the break, I get back on my bike and cycle on to Groenteboer Jos van der Lee. This farm shop is a household name in De Beemster. Inside, you will find everything: fresh juices, local beer, vegetables and fruit from the region. A few Beemster beers in the bag? Good idea!
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5. Tapping milk and cheese from the vending machine
5. Tapping milk and cheese from the vending machine
Finally, I cycle towards the Nicolaashoeve. Here, the route gets a playful ending: tapping milk and getting cheese from the vending machine yourself. It's simple, but fun precisely because of that. So you end the day with something you don't find everywhere. Fun to do together and another great story to take home!
Practical tips for your fun day
- Go out with friends or family: tasting together is always more fun.
- Out and about with the kids? Take a look at the children's route!
- Bring a bicycle bag or basket, because you will stop more often than you think.
- Combine cheese scored along the way with a local beer for a top drink at home.
- Take your time: this route is not about kilometres, but about enjoys.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, right. The route is ideal for groups who want to cycle, stop and taste together. Everywhere there is room to stop and enjoy.
September and October are popular because of the harvest season, but every season has its charm and its own products.
No, that is not necessary. It is precisely the spontaneity that makes this route so much fun. Follow the route and stop where it is pleasant.
No, De Beemster is flat and therefore suitable for recreational cyclists of any level.
Yes, you can visit various farm shops and places like Bij Moeders in de Kosterij for coffee, pastries and local delicacies.