Elfstedentocht Cycling Route

Follow the iconic 11 cities ice skating track on your bike. Follow along the Elfstedentocht cycling route to see some of the best sights!

• Cycle to some of the best villages and sights in Friesland along the 255 km route of the Elven Cities (“Elfstedentocht”)! The Elven Cities of Friesland are the featured sights of the local and famous Elfstedentocht ice skating route. While the ice skating event hasn’t taken place for years (curse you, climate change!), you can still cycle around it.
• The entire Elfstedentocht cycling route might be a whopping 255km, but you can easily shorten it and make it your own. The route begins in the capital of Friesland, Leeuwarden. It takes you to everything from the small but charming village of Sloten to the pretty rivers and natural sights of Friesland, all in one big loop. Leeuwarden is the easiest starting point to reach!
• This cycling route is known for its local heritage. Elfstedentocht is a rare super long ice skating event, named after its track on the river that goes to all 11 cities in the Friesland province. You’ll be following along the same river. Even though you can’t skate it, you’ll still get to experience the authentic culture of Friesland! Find the cycling route map here.