Just days ago, cycling fans across the globe watched as Rotterdam hosted the thrilling start of the 2024 Tour de France Femmes, showcasing the city’s vibrant streets and iconic landmarks. For families who are passionate about cycling, Rotterdam offers an incredible opportunity to ride the very same streets that the world’s top female cyclists raced on. Imagine pedaling as a family along the Erasmusbrug, through the bustling Wilhelminaplein, and past the modern architectural wonders of the city center—these are the same routes that recently witnessed the excitement and energy of the Tour.
Whether you’re cycling along the route that the pros just conquered or exploring the city’s unique blend of modernity, maritime heritage, and green spaces, Rotterdam provides a cycling experience like no other. This city isn’t just bike-friendly; it’s where cycling is celebrated as part of the urban lifestyle, making it the perfect destination for families who want to explore together on two wheels.
Ride the Tour de France Femmes route
One of the most exciting aspects of cycling in Rotterdam as a family is the chance to ride sections of the 2024 Tour de France Femmes route. The opening stages of the race took place on some of the city’s most iconic roads, offering both scenic beauty and a taste of professional cycling. Here’s how you can follow in the tire tracks of the pros:
Erasmusbrug: Start your journey on the Erasmusbrug, the “Swan” bridge that not only serves as a stunning symbol of Rotterdam but also provided a dramatic backdrop for the Tour’s opening stage. With dedicated bike lanes, you can enjoy the same sweeping views of the skyline and the Nieuwe Maas River that the pros experienced.
Wilhelminaplein and Kop van Zuid: Continue your ride through Wilhelminaplein, a key area during the race, and explore the modern architecture of Kop van Zuid. This area blends Rotterdam’s rich maritime history with cutting-edge design, and cycling here offers a unique perspective on the city’s transformation.
Coolsingel: Ride along Coolsingel, one of Rotterdam’s main streets and a focal point during the Tour. This bustling avenue, lined with shops and historic buildings, was alive with the excitement of the race. As you cycle here, you’ll feel the energy that just days ago was shared by the world’s best cyclists.
Discover the hidden gems of the port of Rotterdam by bike
As the largest port in Europe, the Port of Rotterdam is a fascinating area to explore, especially for families interested in maritime history and industry. The port’s extensive cycling routes allow you to venture through the industrial heart of the city, where you can witness massive ships, sprawling docks, and bustling container terminals. But it’s not just about industry; the port area also has hidden natural reserves like the Eiland van Brienenoord, an island where families can escape the urban hustle and enjoy birdwatching, picnicking, and even spotting seals.
Cycle through modern architecture and public art
Rotterdam is a living museum of modern architecture, and exploring it by bike allows families to appreciate its unique blend of old and new. Start your journey at the Markthal, a horseshoe-shaped building that houses a vibrant market beneath its vast, colorful ceiling mural. From there, cycle to the Cube Houses, an iconic and quirky set of tilted, yellow cubes that will intrigue kids and adults alike. Along the way, you’ll encounter various pieces of public art, such as the sculpture “Santa Claus” by Paul McCarthy, affectionately known by locals as “Kabouter Buttplug.” These artistic encounters provide a playful and educational aspect to your cycling adventure.
Family-friendly cycling paths in Kralingse Bos
For families looking for a more tranquil cycling experience, the Kralingse Bos (Kralingen Forest) offers a perfect retreat. This large park, located just a short ride from the city center, features picturesque cycling paths that wind through lush woods, around the Kralingse Plas lake, and past windmills that are quintessentially Dutch. The park is a great spot for a family picnic, and there are plenty of playgrounds and open spaces for kids to run around. During the summer, you can also rent pedal boats or take a swim in the lake, making it a versatile destination for active families.
Explore the green rooftops and urban gardens
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One of Rotterdam’s unique sustainability initiatives is its commitment to creating green rooftops and urban gardens. The DakAkker, located on the roof of the Schieblock building, is Europe’s first rooftop farm and an intriguing stop for families. Here, you can learn about urban agriculture, see beehives up close, and even participate in workshops. Another great stop is the Luchtsingel bridge, a pedestrian and cycle bridge funded by citizens, which connects various urban green spaces and offers stunning views of the city.
Cycle and dine: Family-friendly cafés with a view
After a day of cycling, Rotterdam offers plenty of family-friendly cafés where you can relax and enjoy a meal with a view. The Fenix Food Factory, located in a repurposed warehouse in the Katendrecht area, is a popular choice. It offers a variety of local and artisanal foods, and its riverside location provides a perfect spot to watch the sunset over the Maas River. For a more laid-back atmosphere, the Vroesenpaviljoen in the Vroesenpark is ideal, with its child-friendly menu and spacious outdoor seating.
Explore the maasvlakte and futureland
For families with a taste for adventure, the Maasvlakte, an extension of the Port of Rotterdam into the North Sea, offers a unique cycling experience. The area is accessible via well-marked bike paths and features stunning views of the sea, wind turbines, and vast sandy beaches. A visit to Futureland, the visitor center at Maasvlakte, provides an educational experience about the port’s expansion and the cutting-edge technology behind it. Kids will love the interactive exhibits and the chance to see giant cranes and ships up close.
Ready to ride?
Rotterdam’s unique blend of modernity, sustainability, and maritime heritage makes it a standout destination for cycling families. Whether you’re crossing its iconic bridges, exploring hidden natural reserves in the port, or cycling through its innovative urban spaces, Rotterdam offers a cycling experience like no other.
The post Exploring Rotterdam as a Cycling Family: Ride the Streets of the 2024 Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift appeared first on We Love Cycling magazine.