Castle cycling through the dunes near Heemskerk

From castle to castle through the North Holland Dune Reserve! You'll also pass a few charming towns, such as Wijk aan Zee. Immediately after your start, you'll cycle past Marquette Castle, on the edge of Heemskerk. Later today, you'll pass nearby Assumburg Castle: when it was vacant after 1867, the paneling and utensils were moved to Marquette. Via Beverwijk, you'll cycle to Assumburg Castle. The castle likely dates from the thirteenth century, with the current building constructed in 1546. Although the castle appears solid, its walls are thin: it wasn't a fortress, but served as a residential area for the nobility. While you're there, be sure to check out the French-classical-style ornamental garden, which is open to the public.