When Formula 1 lands in Zandvoort, the seaside town becomes a buzzing festival of all things motorsport – racing, high-energy and, of course, bright orange. Fans pour in from around the world to watch the drama unfold at the Circuit Zandvoort – but how do you make the most of your time outside of the racing action?
With many supporters only in town for a long weekend, it can often feel like there’s little time to properly explore. That’s exactly why running and cycling are such good options: they let you cover ground quickly, soak up the scenery, and experience more of Zandvoort than you’d see just travelling between the train station and the grandstands.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide. Whether you’re a casual jogger, a weekend rider, or a seasoned endurance athlete, there are routes here to suit every ability and every pocket of spare time.
Cycling routes in Zandvoort
Zandvoort Dunes Loop
- Distance: 15 km
- Difficulty: Easy
- Terrain: Flat paved cycle paths through dunes
- Directions: Loop south into Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen, returning along the coast
- Why do it? A gentle spin to clear your head and enjoy the famous Dutch cycle paths
Zandvoort – Leiden historic route
- Town: Zandvoort/Leiden
- Distance: ~45 km
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Terrain: Cycle paths and quiet country roads
- Directions: South through Noordwijkerhout into Leiden’s historic centre, then return via dune paths
- Getting there from Zandvoort (if starting at Leiden): Train via Haarlem (~50 min)
- Why do it? A mix of seaside, countryside, and history by riding straight into the heart of Leiden
Ronde van Zandvoort
- Distance: 25.3 km
- Difficulty: Easy-moderate
- Terrain: Coastal paths, dune trails, and quiet roads
- Directions: Start in central Zandvoort (junction 79), following numbered junctions: 18 → 66 → 99 → 19 → 21 → 36 → 83 → 77 → 79
- Why do it? Cycle along the coast through varied dune landscapes and past impressive villas. Keep an eye out for wildlife in the National Park Zuid-Kennemerland, including Konik horses, foxes, and deer – a nice bonus during your ride
De Stinkende Emmer Fietsroute
- Town: Zandvoort
- Distance: 23.3 km
- Difficulty: Easy-moderate
- Terrain: Coastal paths, quiet village roads, and scenic dunes
- Directions: Begin at Fish Restaurant Thalassa on Boulevard Barnaart 18, following the route through Zandvoort, Overveen, and Haarlem
- Why do it? Cycle in the footsteps of Zandvoort’s historic fishmongers. This route takes you through picturesque villages, past scenic dunes, and into Haarlem, offering a blend of the coastal beauty and cultural heritage of the town
Outdoor Workout Spots in Zandvoort
If running and cycling aren’t your bag and you’d rather squeeze in a circuit or some bodyweight training during your time in Zandvoort, there are plenty of open-air options:
- Zandvoort Beach: Flat sand makes for perfect bodyweight drills, sprints, or quick HIIT sessions
- Dune Clearings: Zuid-Kennemerland and Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen offer tranquil patches of grass or sand for yoga and mindfulness, stretching, or circuits
- Haarlem Fitness Parks: Just a short train ride away, Haarlem has outdoor calisthenics areas with pull-up bars and dip stations to help you build up a sweat
Running routes outside of Zandvoort
Wisentenroute (Bison Trail)
- Town: Overveen (Zuid-Kennemerland National Park)
- Distance: ~9.4 km
- Difficulty: Moderate-challenging – uneven paths, longer stretches in woodland
- Terrain: Forest and sandy trails
- Getting there from Zandvoort: Either by bus or by train to Zuid-Kennemerland National Park
- By train + walk: Train from Zandvoort to Overveen (~7 min, €1–5), then walk (~15–20 min) via Tetterodeweg, Militairenweg, and Zeeweg to the Visitor Centre.
- Directions: Trail starts in Zuid-Kennemerland National Park. Marked route takes you through woodland areas where European bison roam
- Why do it? Unique wildlife sightings – keep your camera handy but maintain safe distance!
Amsterdamse Bos Long Run
- Town: Amsterdam
- Distance: 10–21 km (different loop options)
- Difficulty: Easy-moderate
- Terrain: Paved park paths, woodland trails
- Getting there from Zandvoort: Take the train from Zandvoort aan Zee to Amsterdam Zuid. From Amsterdam Zuid, it’s a 15-minute tram/bus ride
- Directions: Multiple marked running loops through forest and lakeside paths
- Why do it? A change of scene from the coast and visit Amsterdam in a relaxed way. It’s shaded, green, and great for those completing longer training
For fans looking to explore Amsterdam on foot, several parks offer scenic, quieter alternatives to the busy city streets. Vondelpark, Flevopark, and Westerpark all feature a mix of paved paths, woodland trails, and open lawns, with multiple loop options ranging from short 2–3 km circuits to longer 10+ km runs, making them perfect for jogging away from the hustle and bustle.
Cycling routes outside of Zandvoort
Amsterdam Cycling Loops
- Town: Amsterdam
- Distance: 20–60 km (various options)
- Difficulty: Easy-challenging depending on distance
- Terrain: Canal paths, polder landscapes, parkland
- Directions: Routes radiate from central Amsterdam through flat countryside
- Getting there from Zandvoort: Train to Amsterdam Centraal (~30 min) or a cycling option (~35 km)
- Why do it? It’s the epitome of classic Dutch cycling, with canals, windmills, and endless flat roads
Ride along the Amstel River
- Town: Amsterdam / Ouderkerk aan de Amstel
- Distance: 27 km
- Difficulty: Easy
- Terrain: Paved riverside paths, flat cycling lanes
- Directions: Start near Amsterdam Central, follow the Amstel River south along the right bank toward Ouderkerk aan de Amstel, then cross the river to return to the city
- Getting there from Zandvoort: Train to Amsterdam Centraal (~30 min), then cycle from the station to the Amstel River (~5 min)
- Why do it? Enjoy a classic Dutch experience: windmills, barges, water, and riverside cafés. Admire stately homes and the spot where Rembrandt drew inspiration for his paintings. Stop for a refreshment at Ouderkerk before returning to the city along scenic riverside paths
