From then to now

12,9 km
Cruquius Museum: the iconic hotspot of Haarlemmermeer
The polder landscape of Haarlemmermeer has a special history. It has changed from water to polder land. And later from arable farming to urban areas.
View of the Cruquius steam pumping station

During this bike tour you make a journey from the past to the present. You cycle past various historical icons, such as steam pumping station De Cruquius and the Fort near Vijfhuizen. Discover the story of the battle against the water and enjoy the beautiful surroundings! 
 

Starting point

The route starts at the Gemaal de Cruquius on the Cruquiusdijk. 
 

1 De Cruquius pumping station

The historical De Cruquius pumping station is a steam pumping station from 1849. It is one of the three pumping stations with which Haarlemmermeer was drained between 1849 and 1852. This unique location has since been converted into a cultural hotspot with an innovative museum. The Cruquius Museum tells the story of the reclamation of the Haarlemmermeer and the centuries-long struggle against the water. 

Pumping station De Cruquius in spring time

2 Teahouse Cruquius

After discovering the fascinating history of Gemaal de Cruquius you can go to restaurant Teahouse Cruquius enjoy a delicious lunch. The restaurant is located right next to the pumping station, in a unique location with an unobstructed view over the water. In addition, the beautiful garden is the perfect place to take a break during this cycling tour. 

View of the Cruquius tea house with a filled terrace outside

3 Art fort near Vijfhuizen

Via the Ringvaart you cycle through the polder landscape to Vijfhuizen. When you arrive here you will find it beautiful Kunstfort Vijfhuizen. As the name suggests, this is one of the forts that are part of the Defense Line of Amsterdam. In this special place, visual art and military heritage come together. Here you can view exhibitions, participate in workshops, but also enjoy a snack and a drink.
 

Exterior art fort Vijfhuizen with water in front

4 Expo Haarlemmermeer

Further on in Vijfhuizen you will find the Expo Haarlemmermeer event location. This striking glass building was erected during the Floriade 2002. The exhibition space has an area of ​​no less than 26.000 square meters and even has an auditorium. This unique glass accommodation is the perfect location for various fairs and events, such as Bright Day, Citromobile, the Libelle Summer Week and various flea markets. 

Expo Haarlemmermeer seen from the air with Vijfhuizen next to it

5 Big Spotters Hill

From Vijfhuizen you cycle to the Haarlemmermeerse Bos until you arrive at Big Spotters Hill. This hill was built in 2002 for the Floriade and is 42 meters high - a huge climb with your mountain bike! The mound is made of the earth that was released during the excavation of ditches and ponds on the Floriade site. The shape is inspired by the Egyptian Pyramid of Cheops. Big Spotters Hill is a special vantage point in the Haarlemmermeerse Bos. So get off your bike and enjoy the wide view! 
 

Stairway up with artwork on Big Spotters Hill

End point

The route ends where you started, in Cruquius. Are you inspired to do this extensive fortress cycling route? Then quickly view the entire route via the link below! 

More about the starting point

Starting point route
Cruquiusdijk
2142 LH Cruquius
The Netherlands