Bike & Barge Holland Tours
The Essentials
Cycle through four countries on your way from Amsterdam to Metz, France
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Boat: The Iris with a max capacity of 24
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Pre-Tour Friday night accomodation provided as an option if desired
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Bikes: 21 speed bikes provided (step through or diamond) with waterproof panniers
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Guides provide all needed tools for repairs and adjustments as needed
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Terrain: Mostly flat with long stretches along rivers
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Difficulty level: Moderate
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Tour includes both rural and city biking
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Long group will cover 30-40Km per day and short group 20-30Km
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What to bring: Helmets, shoes and layered clothing (weather can change during the day)
The Itinerary
Day 1 - Friday (Included as optional)
Arrival and Bed & Breakfast Night in Amsterdam
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM on The Iris docked in the Oosterdok. Suitcase drop-off only is available earlier, allowing time for our crew to prepare the barge. Your first night includes a charming Bed & Breakfast stay in Amsterdam. Dinner is at your leisure to explore the city's vibrant scene.
Day 2 - Saturday
Voyage Begins
The barge sets sail promptly by 1:00 PM at the latest. Please ensure you are on board by 12pm. We will enjoy a scenic initial cruise followed by a brief test ride to calibrate your bike. Tonight the first group dinner will be served on board.
Days 3 - 12
Tour Highlights:
- Starting in the Netherlands, you cycle through rural river landscapes from Amsterdam to Arnhem.
- Cross into Germany to navigate the industrial heritage of the Ruhr area. Continue through Düsseldorf and Cologne to see the Gothic cathedral.
- Ride further south along the Rhine and Moselle river valleys. You pass the city of Bonn and reach Koblenz at the river confluence.
- Cycle past the wine slopes and historic villages of the Moselle region. Visit Trier, Germany's oldest town, to see Roman ruins and the cathedral.
- Cross through Luxembourg and enter France. The trip concludes in Metz, the medieval capital of Lorraine, after visiting the cathedral. Most cycling follows dedicated bike routes along the rivers.
Day 13 - Wednesday
Arrival into Metz, France
Cycle into Metz and Farewell dinner.
Day 14 - Thursday
Day Off in Metz
The day is up to you! Enjoy dinner on your own while exploring Metz.
Day 15 - Friday
Final Morning & Departure
After a light breakfast, guests must depart the Iris by 9am.
What's Included
- Bed & Breakfast the Friday night before the tour starts
- Twin/double cabin on a premium barge with private facilities
- Full board meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, and 11 three-course dinners
- Professional tour guide leading all daily cycling excursions
- High-quality rental bike with waterproof pannier and equipment
- Ferry crossings, harbor fees, and local tourist taxes
- Historical city tours and entrance fees to museums and landmarks
- Daily Cabin Cleanings on the Iris
- Gratuity for crew and guides
Notable Exclusions
- Arrival and departure travel to Amsterdam
- Mandatory personal travel and cancellation insurance
- Optional E-bike upgrade ($350 / tour)
- Bar consumption and personal drinks on board
- No van transport to the airport after the tour on the Amsterdam-Metz route. Return travel not included.