Cycling beyond Utrecht Make your visit to Utrecht complete with a bike ride, discovering the city’s beautiful surroundings. A bright, sunny day in September or October is perfect for cycling to the lush meadows, tranquil rivers, and beautiful estates just outside the city centre. To start your cycling tour, visit the VVV-store on Domplein for a bicycle map. You can also rent bikes here. Your first stop can be the Pandhof garden of the Dom Church. This garden dates from 1390-1400, and is one of the most beautiful cloisters in the Netherlands. From here, you have a magnificent view of the Dom Tower and the church, so don’t forget to bring your camera. Blissful DomCafé is a peaceful place, overlooking the Pandhof garden. Opt for coffee and a cake, or a simple lunch. > DomCafé, Achter de Dom 1 After leaving the city centre, you will soon pedal into meadowland. You will reach the country estate Amelisweerd, with characteristic house that was once the residence of Louis Napoléon Bonaparte. It now houses Museum Oud Amelisweerd, where you can discover the largest collection of the well-known Dutch artist Armando, and a selection of unique Chinese and other historic wall coverings. 100% organic Sit back, relax, and enjoy the view at De Veldkeuken, just across the road from Museum Oud Amelisweerd. Endulge in delicious cakes, sandwiches, quiches, or soup. > De Veldkeuken, Koningslaan 11A veldkeuken.nl Continue towards Fort Rhijnauwen, the largest fortification of the ‘New Dutch Water Line’. This is a 135 kilometres long defense line that helped to defend the Netherlands from wars for more than a century. English guided tours of the fort are available till 1 October, but be sure to book ahead. The VVV-store can inform you about the tours. Alternatively, go for a short walk along the stream, that was once part of the river Rhine. On the banks of the stream, there are two cafés where you can regain your strength for the bike ride back to the city centre. Relaxing Enjoy a cold drink and a bite to eat in or outside the coach house café, which is part of hostel Stayokay. > Café Stayokay, Rhijnauwenselaan 14 Dutch pancakes Wonderful location for eating typically Dutch pancakes. There’s a pancake for everyone, whether you have a sweet or savoury tooth. > Theehuis Rhijnauwen, Rhijnauwenselaan 16 theehuisrhijnauwen.nl For more ideas to explore Utrecht by bike, see visit-utrecht.com