The Netherlands prides itself on being a sporting nation and if you want to get some exercise, you will surely find what you are looking for. Because of the beautiful scenery and hilly landscape, the Maastricht Region attracts many recreational cyclists, and hosts various Bicycling races, and is extremely popular for outdoor hiking. However, you can indulge in many different sports, in either an active or a recreational way, within a club, or individually. In the cities you will easily find an indoor gym. But you can also take a canoe out on the Maas, make a trip in an air balloon, go skiing or snowboarding in Europe's largest indoor skiing facilities, pick up a golf-club or find a local court to join in a jeu-de-boules competition. If you are interested in watching a professional game nearby, soccer it is!

The ANWB and the Maastricht Region's tourist office (both national tourism organisations) have informational websites and have stores in the larger cities with a great selection of roadmaps for hiking, cycling and guides for other sports activities or events.

Please review the website of your municipality, the local community guide or consult the (online) telephone book for information on sport clubs and locations.

Excerpts from: Expat Guide Holland

Top 5 cycle routes

• Amstel Gold Race route
• Cruising down the river
• Hairpin Bends and Tuscan views
• Nature near chemistry
• Parkstad nature & castels

By Martijn Kagenaar