Schagen, Den Helder and Anna Paulowna

Den Helder is the home base of the Royal Navy. Most activities of our defenders in the water take place in or near the city. For example, the naval airport is a stone's throw away and a marine barracks is located on Texel. Most naval ships are anchored in the port of Den Helder. There is also a maintenance yard and many workshops and training courses, including the Royal Naval Institute (KIM). As you make your way to picturesque villages and smaller towns such as Anna Paulowna and Schagen, you cycle through a sea of colors. Strips of green meadows and bulb fields provide a picturesque picture. The colorful spring and summer seasons are heralded by the blooming of crocuses at the end of March. The beautiful colors of different types of tulips, daffodils and hyacinths then quickly continue, while in late summer gladioli, dahlias, carnations and asters provide a second beautiful sea of diverse colors. During the first half of the cycle tour you will see Fort Kijkduin. The fort was built in 1811 by order of Napoleon Bonaparte. Initially the fort was named after a colonel in Napoleon's army, Francois Louis Morland, but after the establishment of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in 1815 the fort was given its current name. When originally built, the fort consisted of a brick reduit of 64 meters long with two bastions on the south side. The whole was surrounded by a dry moat. In 1822, a brick lighthouse was placed on the fort, and the twenty-two meter high tower was also provided with embrasures. That tower was replaced by Lange Jaap in 1877. In 1897 an armored observation post was placed on the roof. The fort is a national monument. The second half of the route you will pass WV Anna Paulowna. Here you can take a break, enjoying a refreshing drink on a terrace, while the activity around you creates a pleasant atmosphere. There is always something to see or do; the beautiful pleasure boats and larger yachts are a feast for the eyes and almost every water sports enthusiast is up for a chat. This route, which is over 66 kilometers long, starts at Profile Westenenk in Schagen. Before you start your long bike ride, we advise you to have your bike thoroughly inspected by the bicycle specialist. This way you can be sure that you can complete your route safely and without unpleasant surprises. If you have a bicycle discount pass, you will receive a 10 euro discount on repairs or maintenance.