Cycling through the Schoorlse Duinen is a great way to see the woods, dunes and surrounding villages all in one go. The tarmac cycle paths make the area accessible to both standard and electric bikes, but changes in elevation and the wind remain noticeable. Decide in advance whether you want to do a short loop or plan a longer route from Bergen aan Zee with Schoorl as a stop-off point.
Start in Bergen aan Zee or Schoorl
If you are staying at Appartementen Parkzicht, you can cycle from Bergen aan Zee towards Schoorl. That way, you won’t need to use the car, and the journey there becomes part of the route. If you’d prefer to cycle mainly in the Schoorlse Duinen, you can also start closer to Schoorl. In that case, please check the current parking options and how busy it is around the Buitencentrum in advance.
A start at the Outdoor Centre Schoorlse Duinen This is handy if you want to have a look at a map or some information first. The centre is close to a cycle junction and serves as a clear landmark. Do check the opening hours if you wish to go inside. The cycle paths themselves are subject to the same access rules as the nature reserve.
Choose a route along tarmac cycle paths
The Schoorlse Duinen feature concrete and other paved cycle paths. These are better suited to standard bicycles than loose sandy paths. Plan your route using junction points or an up-to-date map, and allow plenty of leeway in case you take a wrong turn. A loop route with the same start and finish points offers greater certainty than a long, straight route where you’ll need to arrange transport back.
Bear in mind that there will be uphill and downhill sections
The Schoorlse Duinen are among the highest dune areas in the Netherlands. You’ll notice this when cycling too. Short inclines can follow one after another, and descents require good control of your brakes. Change down in good time and keep your distance from other cyclists. An e-bike makes climbing easier, but that’s no reason to ride faster through blind bends.
Plan a break in Schoorl
The village of Schoorl is a good place to stop for a coffee or lunch. Around the Klimduin, you’ll find various options and can take a break from the cycle route without having to cycle far. Make sure you lock your bike securely and take any valuables with you. If, as well as cycling, you’d like to see more of the village, take a look at Things to do in Schoorl.
Combine woodland and open dunes
In wooded sections, you’ll be riding in more sheltered conditions, whilst open dunes offer better views but are more exposed to the wind. It is precisely this variety that makes the route interesting. Check the weather forecast and, if the wind is strong, opt for a shorter loop. After rain, leaves, sand and twigs may be lying on the path. Adjust your speed and don’t assume that the surface will be the same around every bend.
Please respect nature and other visitors
Stay on designated cycle paths and follow temporary diversions. The Schoorlse Duinen are heavily used by walkers, cyclists and families. Ring your bell in good time, overtake carefully and slow down at busy junctions. Please take your rubbish home with you. If a path is closed for nature conservation or safety reasons, please choose an alternative route rather than riding through a fence.
Make sure you take enough with you for the journey
Fill your water bottle, charge your mobile phone and bike battery, and take a repair kit with you. It’s a good idea to take an extra layer of clothing, as the temperature and wind conditions can vary between the woods and the open dunes. Download your route before setting off. If you’re hiring a bike, check the battery range and the terms and conditions for breakdown assistance, so you know what to do if you run into trouble along the way.
Alternate cycling with walking
You can see a lot from your bike, but some nature trails can only be explored on foot. It’s best to set aside a separate day for this. In walking in the Schoorlse Duinen You can read about starting points, terrain and route choices. This way, you can use the cycling day to cover distance and the walking day to explore places where cycling is not permitted or practical.
Make Bergen aan Zee your base
A holiday by the sea offers you a choice of routes to Schoorl, Bergen and Egmond. Explore the options via Accommodation in Bergen aan Zee. If you haven’t brought a bike with you, Parkzicht offers a bike hire service delivered to your accommodation for a fee. You can find more general preparation advice in Cycling in Bergen aan Zee.
Use nodes as a guide
The cycle junction network helps you plan a route in advance and follow it as you go. Write the numbers down on paper or take a screenshot, so you aren’t reliant on mobile coverage. Check the total distance and add a short return option. That way, if you miss a turn, you won’t have to recalculate the whole route.
Waypoints provide direction, but say little about how busy the route is, the wind or the difference in altitude. You should therefore also consult an up-to-date map of the nature reserve. Once there, follow any temporary diversions rather than sticking to your planned route, as roadworks or nature conservation work may close off part of the path.
Choose a suitable time to set off
An early ride is often quieter and more comfortable on hot days. In spring and autumn, dry paths and plenty of daylight are more important than temperature alone. Check the weather forecast just before setting off and adjust your route if strong winds or thunderstorms are forecast. A shorter loop still offers a proper introduction to the area.
Check your bike afterwards
Sand and moisture can slow you down and put strain on the chain and tyres. After your ride, check for any damage, a flat tyre or unusual noises. Report any problems with a hire bike immediately in accordance with the agreed terms and conditions. This will ensure your next ride starts safely and prevent a minor fault from becoming a bigger problem whilst you’re out and about.
