Soccer, the great popular sport
Soccer is the country's most popular sport, with the Oranje national team regularly shining on the international stage (Euro winners in 1988 and World Cup finalists in 1974, 1978 and 2010). They even made history in the 1970s with their "total soccer" and the genius Johan Cruyff, one of the greatest players of all time. Although he failed to reach the World Cup final twice in a row (against West Germany in 1974 and Argentina in 1978), his successor Marco van Basten, aided by the likes of Ruud Gullit, John Bosman and Frank Rijkaard, won the country's only major title at Euro 1988. Dutch soccer also shines thanks to its clubs, notably Ajax Amsterdam, 4-time Champions League winner and 36-time Dutch champion.
Ice skating, the other national sport
The other national sport is ice skating, and the national team shines on the world stage. The Netherlands has some twenty ice rinks for long-distance skating races, where official competitions are held. The Thialf Ice Arena in Heerenveen is the largest indoor ice rink in the Netherlands. The races often take place in a crazy atmosphere, with 12,500 fans dressed in orange. If you're lucky enough to get there during a harsh winter, make the most of it, as winters are getting milder and milder, and frosts are becoming rare..
The country of the bicycle
Cycling, of course! Holland is the "Mecca of cyclists". The country boasts over 20,000 km of cycle paths and more than 3,000 specialist stores. Legend has it that there are even more bicycles than inhabitants in the Netherlands. The terrain lends itself remarkably well to cycling, and the country is equipped with an excellent network of cycle paths. But beware, the flat country can hold many surprises in store for cyclists, as a south-westerly wind can slow these road warriors down, and more power is needed to move fietsen (traditional Dutch bicycles) forward. The bicycles used are the famous Dutch bikes, very beautiful and noble with their generally black frame and fairly high handlebars. On these machines, braking is often by back-pedaling (you soon get the hang of it). As these bikes are quite heavy, you can easily let go of the handlebars and hold a bag or... an umbrella. In Amsterdam, there are almost one and a half bicycles (1.2 to be exact) per inhabitant! This impressive figure says a lot about the city. Every year, Amsterdam vies with Copenhagen for the title of world bicycle capital. As you can see, bicycles are the essential means of transport for visiting the city. Other Dutch cities claim the title of cycling capital, notably Groningen and Eindhoven. Provincial VVV tourist offices are always happy to provide information on organized tours and rides in the area.
Trails to be walked or ridden
Hiking. Beautifully signposted trails take hikers through protected areas with unspoilt landscapes. Many of these areas are only accessible on foot. Ask for the "Wandelkaartje" at the tourist office, which serves as a pass for all walks.
Rollerblading. Bicycles are no longer the only environmentally-friendly way to get around. In Amsterdam, rollerblades have taken over the pavement, and it's not uncommon to see a city dweller getting to work on wheels.
Horseback riding. Horseback riding in the beautiful Dutch countryside is well worth the effort. For a holiday devoted to horses, choose the North Sea islands or the large stud farms in the east of the country.
Beaches and water sports
The coast is ideal for swimming, sailing, windsurfing and surfing.
Sea bathing. Bathing is easy in Holland, at least if you're not too cold! In summer, more than fifty beaches along the North Sea coast are supervised and safe. From The Hague to Den Helder, there are almost 100 km of fine sandy beaches stretching almost non-stop. You'll be spoilt for choice between the various seaside resorts dotting this long coastline, which is lined with high dunes for most of its length: Zandvoort, Bergen aan Zee, Egmond aan Zee, Bloemendaal, Schoorl... all promising sunbathing on fine sand. As far as we're concerned, we preferred the beaches of beautiful Texel, the Wadden Island in the far north of Holland (but the water is even colder there!). That said, in addition to a bathing suit, a little wool is never too much when you go to the beach. These beaches are totally exposed to the prevailing westerly winds, and you quickly lose several degrees. It's also advisable to watch out for currents, and it's best not to let children swim alone.
Sailing. Sailing in the Netherlands is an obvious choice: water and wind reign supreme. Catamaran, windsurf, dinghy, sailboat - the choice is wide. Windsurfers and surfers should be aware that the sea and winds on the coast require seasoned sportsmen and women (on the Ijsselmeer, it's calmer and the waves are lower). The country has over 300 marinas where you can moor your boat. Alternatively, you can hire any type of boat from sailing schools or yacht charter companies.
Canoeing and kayaking. The countless rivers and canals are ideal for this sport. Maps of the region with suitable itineraries are available from tourist offices. For those who don't own a canoe or kayak, or have decided not to take one with them, there is no shortage of rental equipment.
A good fishing spot
Sport fishing enthusiasts are free to indulge their passion in the North Sea. No fishing license is required. You do, however, need a VISpas to fish in certain waters along the coast. Please note that you should never organize a fishing trip along canals, ponds or polders: only members of a Dutch fishing club are authorized to do so... Please note that "special fishing" boat trips are organized in most of the country's ports.
