Land van Leeghwater - Hart van Noord-Holland

Hart van Noord-Holland

Land van Leeghwater

Discover the Heart of North Holland on foot or by bike

The Heart of North Holland comprises the municipalities of Alkmaar, Bergen, Castricum, Dijk en Waard, Heiloo and Uitgeest. Together, they form a diverse region where the coast, polders, historic towns and charming villages come together.

From the beaches and dunes of Egmond, Bergen and Schoorl to the water-rich polders around Uitgeest, Dijk en Waard and De Rijp: every route reveals a different side of the region. Walk or cycle past vast meadows, winding dykes, historic village centres and charming towns such as Alkmaar. Along the way, nature and culture alternate effortlessly.

Fresh and salt water as a common theme

Water defines the character of the Heart of North Holland. This is where fresh and salt water meet: from braving the wind on the North Sea coast to walking alongside lakes, polders and historic waterways. In every season, the region offers new stories and surprising routes — ideal for exploring on foot or by bike.

Routes in the Alkmaar region

Kaart van ‘Alcmaer’ omgeving uit 1550 – 1570. Collectie Provinciale Atlas Noord-Holland, Noord-Hollands Archief

Stories from North Holland

Unusual names and nicknames: Alkmaar and the surrounding area

North Holland has many places with unusual names. The origins of some are easy to identify, whilst for others it is necessary to delve a little deeper into the past. Where do the names Heerhugowaard, Alkmaar, Bergen, Castricum, Heiloo and Uitgeest come from?

Alkmaar historische binnenstad

Alkmaar, a city steeped in history

Alkmaar has a rich history as a cheese-making town. The town centre is historic and charming, with beautiful canals and listed buildings.