Elfkernentocht Haarlemmermeer

Cycle 42.8 km past 11 villages in Haarlemmermeer. From Zwaanshoek via the Ringvaart and Westeinderplassen to Nieuw-Vennep.

Eleven Villages Tour: straight through the polder past 11 villages

The Elfkernentocht is the ultimate cycling route to truly get to know Haarlemmermeer. In 42.8 kilometers, you cycle past no fewer than 11 of the 31 villages and hamlets of this special municipality. A route full of variety: open polder land, wide canals, winding dikes, and lively village centers follow one another.

Directions

You start in Zwaanshoek, one of the greenest and quietest villages in Haarlemmermeer. Right next to Hoofddorp, yet a world apart. You cycle away along the Ringvaart, the wide ring of water that encloses the drained Haarlemmermeer polder. The water glistens beside you as you head south.

Gradually, you drive through the open agricultural landscape of the polder. Straight roads, wide skies, and here and there a pumping station or grain silo remind you of the ingenious history of this area's creation. You pass small, quiet polder villages such as Burgerveen and Abbenes, where time seems to have stood still. In Burgerveen, the iconic grain silo stands out, a striking landmark in the flat landscape.

Heading south, you reach the most picturesque point of the route: Buitenkaag on the Kagerplassen. Here, you exchange the straight lines of the polders for a water-rich environment full of marinas, reed beds, and waterfowl. On a summer day, it is truly stunning here.

Via the Westeinderplassen, you cycle on to Rijsenhout and turn off towards Nieuw-Vennep, the largest village in the municipality, where you finish the route. Along the way, you also pass Landgoed De Olmenhorst, where you can pick your own apples and pears in the autumn. A delightful stopover!

Highlights along the way

1. Zwaanshoek – Green starting point on the Ringvaart, peace and nature right next to Hoofddorp.
2. De Olmenhorst Estate – Orchard with seasonal offerings; visit De Fruitloods for a drink or regional product.
3. Buitenkaag on the Kagerplassen – Picturesque village by the water, ideal for a break at Brasserie Matt's.
4. Westeinderplassen – Extensive lake area, popular with water sports enthusiasts and bird lovers.
5. Burgerveen – Small polder village with the distinctive grain silo and rose nursery Rozen & Radijs.

Background story

Haarlemmermeer consists of 31 settlements, but is only 170 years old. Until 1852, a large lake lay here, the Haarlemmermeer, which could rise to dangerously high levels during storms. The lake was drained using three large steam pumping stations — including the famous Cruquius pumping station. The result: a large, fertile polder, neatly laid out with straight roads and canals. The Elfkernentocht allows you to discover this unique, man-made landscape on two wheels.

Tips and practical information

1. Distance: 42.8 kilometers
2. Starting point: Zwaanshoek — accessible by bus from Hoofddorp (Hoofddorp train station)
3. Public transport: Travel by train to Hoofddorp station, then take the bus or cycle the short distance to Zwaanshoek. The final destination, Nieuw-Vennep, has its own NS station, ideal for a one-way trip!
4. Signage: Follow the directions via RouteYou
5. Accessibility: The route is largely flat and suitable for regular bicycles and e-bikes; not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers for the entire distance.
6. Season: Suitable for cycling all year round; especially enjoyable in the autumn due to the harvest at De Olmenhorst Estate.
7. Food & drink: Along the way, there are various catering establishments, including Brasserie Matt's (Buitenkaag), Lola's (Abbenes), Grand Café De Parel (Westeinderplassen), and Venneper Lodge (Nieuw-Vennep).