Solo Travellers
Freewheeling family fun in the Netherlands: a cycling and camping trip along the Maas river | Cycling holidays
As early as I can remember, I’ve always got a thrill out of poring over a map, tracing wavy river lines with my fingers, roads that connect and borders that divide – all the routes I could take. The freedom of heading out on my bike and not knowing where I’m going to pitch my tent that night. Now that my children are aged seven and nine, I wanted to introduce them to the liberation of this kind of adventure. They adore a day out on their bikes, but this was to be our first multiday bike trip as a family of four, so it was crucial to find a route easy and fun enough to captivate them.
The Maasroute follows the course of the Maas River as it meanders for 300 miles (484km) through the Netherlands, from the inland city of Maastricht to the Hook of Holland, then loops back to Rotterdam. It forms part of the much longer Meuse cycle route (EuroVelo 19) that stretches from the source of the Maas (or Meuse as it’s known in France) on the Langres plateau, travelling through the French and Belgian Ardennes before crossing into the Netherlands.
Our plan was to cycle the 100-mile stretch from Maastricht to Dordrecht over four days, traversing expansive floodplains dotted with castles, windmills and villages of thatched houses, crisscrossing the Maas on charming little ferries and pitching our tent at family-friendly campsites. This being the Netherlands, the terrain is predominantly pancake-flat with protected bike paths and low-traffic roads, making it an ideal first bike trip location for budding cyclists.
For route planning, we used a foldout Dutch cycling map for perspective and nostalgia, in combination with the essential and free LF-routes long-distance cycling app. As we were living in Leiden, we took the train to Maastricht and stayed in a hostel overnight. We carried all our camping gear on rented Dutch city bikes in small everyday panniers, with the overflow in a backpack so the children had nothing to haul. The Hook of Holland is on the Maasroute, so it’s possible to bring your own gear and bikes on an overnight voyage across the North Sea from Harwich.
We set off from Maastricht in the morning sunshine full of first-day energy and cycled five blocks to Sint Servaasbrug, which is an unmissable seven-arched limestone pedestrian and cycle bridge, built in the 1280s to replace a Roman river crossing. This detour, and a not-so-quick stop at the supermarket for picnic ingredients, made getting out of town hairy. However, we soon found ourselves leaving the city and following reassuringly wide cycle paths out into the idyllic water meadows of Limburg, with the Maas as our constant companion.
As the day wore on the heat escalated, so to keep the children on side, we stopped for mango ice lollies followed directly by gelato at Terras Maasoever at Urmond, a breezy bankside restaurant serving broodjes and biertjes (sandwiches and beers) on a terrace overlooking a small river ferry crossing to Belgium.
By the time we arrived at our first campsite at the Jachthaven de Maasterp, in the picturesque village of Ohé en Laak, we were wilting. Luckily, the marina’s Brasserie Knaag & Co didn’t disappoint, with lakeside views, swimming beaches and playgrounds, so we could cool off and toast the success of the girls’ first 30-mile ride.
The next morning we set off early, slathered in sun cream and with spirits high, to cross the Maasplassen, a vast network of human-made lakes that has become a popular destination for water sports. It felt as if we were cycling through a Van Gogh painting as an endless parade of sailing boats and sloops cruised by. After a coffee at the Grand Café Aemilius in Maasbracht – served with a side shot of amaretto and topped with whipped cream – we powered along the straight road to Roermond in the midday sun (I credit the amaretto). Our goal was the aqua park at the Landal de Lommerbergen holiday park where we enjoyed a carefree afternoon racing down slides and plunging into swimming pools.
With bedtimes out of the window, we rode the final stretch of that day’s route at 10pm, enjoying the cool evening air. With another 30-mile ride under our belts, we waited in happy silence with two lone night cyclists for the ferry to Kessel, with the backdrop of Kasteel de Keverberg, a hilltop castle that dates back to AD950, on the bank across the river. Giddy from the day’s adventures, we set up our tent among the trees at Natuurcamping en Camperplaats Boezeven in the last of the light.
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The next day, a combination of heat and tired legs persuaded us that we would have to adjust our itinerary if we were going to make it to Dordrecht. Remembering the objective of fun with the children rather than mileage, we decided to catch a train from Venlo to Breda. (Fortunately, taking bikes on trains in the Netherlands is straightforward, with dedicated carriages that can take up to four bikes outside weekday rush hours for €7.50 each). Disembarking at Breda, we navigated our way to the Biesbosch national park, Europe’s largest freshwater tidal zone, where our pitch at the Kurenpolder campsite in Hank came with a sunset view of the lake.
The key to a successful family cycling adventure is to strike the right balance between the hard work of pedalling and relaxation. The next morning we visited the Biesbosch climbing park, where our girls enjoyed a couple of laps around the high ropes course. A win, but it meant delaying our start time. We thought the afternoon would hold an easy cycle ride across the national park, but only a few miles in, my partner Andrew had a total tyre and tube blowout, which required expert help to repair. We had to make Dordrecht that evening, so I pressed ahead with the girls, cycling along the tops of dykes and past an endless stream of vibrant blue and green creeks and willow flood forests. Eventually, Andrew caught up with us at the Biesbosch Museum terrace for a cold drink and the early evening ferry across the river to Dordrecht, the oldest and one of the most picturesque Dutch cities, with a blend of gothic, Renaissance and Dutch golden age architecture.
Standing on the deck in the breeze, balancing our bikes on that final river crossing, we were low on energy but full of joy and satisfaction. The girls loved the wide bike paths that cut across pristine meadows and the freedom of camping somewhere different each night, but mostly they were exhausted – from days in the sun, pedalling, climbing, swimming and late nights snuggled together as a family in our tent. I liked doing the trip as a family team, and that the girls were learning to take pleasure in doing the gritty, challenging things in life. It will serve them well.
If I were planning the trip again, I would allow at least a week and I might concede a detour to Efteling theme park near Tilburg. The Maasroute was uniformly high quality, beautiful and easy to use. The signposting was so impressive at every turn that it was hardly necessary to refer to the map, freeing you up to be completely present on the ride. The route is well served by campsites, hotels and public transport, so it’s straightforward to adapt your adventure along the way to suit your family’s cycling capacity. However, this does require constant planning and puzzle-solving. Set expectations for a fun, challenging adventure rather than a relaxed holiday. And build in lots of ice-cream stops.
The writer and family stayed at the Green Elephant hostel in Maastricht (family room €78). The sauna and morning coffee were included. Be prepared for numerous small ferry crossings on the Maasroute. None require booking, but a few require cash. Find detailed information on the Maasroute and app at nederlandfietsland.nl
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A version of this article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller UK. For the full list of results, visit remote.com.
Solo Travellers
‘No computers, just outdoor fun’: readers’ favourite family nature trips | Family holidays
Winning tip: meadow birdsong by the beach in Pembrokeshire
For 28 years we have been going to West Hook Farm in Marloes, Pembrokeshire, to camp. The farm has some lovely showers and toilets, and nothing else apart from beautiful fields full of meadow grass. The swifts and swallows dart along the top of the grass to eat bugs at dawn and dusk. All day long you can hear beautiful birdsong from birds such as skylarks. The fields run alongside the beautiful coastal path, which has a hedgerow full of wildflowers and birds. This is the most beautiful place on Earth (when it isn’t raining). The numerous beaches are full of soft white sands. Our children have grown up playing free in the fields on their yearly holiday – no computers, just outdoor fun.
Em
Hiking a Highlands mountain
For a true taste of the Scottish Highlands, head to Ballater and hike the 1,155-metre (3,789 ft) peak of Lochnagar in the Grampians. The trail winds through pine forests and open moorland, the air crisp and alive. Be ready for the weather to change like pages in a book: sunshine, sudden rain, a flurry of snow on the summit, then blue skies again. On the way down, slip into the river, its water sharp as ice. Pack layers, bring snacks and take your time. It’s a walk that stays with you long after you leave the mountain behind.
Eva
Walking the Cotswold Way – inspired by Laurie Lee
After a family reading of Laurie Lee’s As I Walked Out One Midsummer Morning, my husband and I decided our two teens were ready to try a walking holiday in the Cotswolds. We set out with backpacks and a tent on the Cotswold Way, starting just outside lively Chipping Campden and ending in Bath. Mobiles were limited to an hour a day in the evening and we did 10 miles a day – covering the walk in 10 days. We felt we were a part of a community of walkers as fellow hikers greeted us in passing, sharing drinks and tips with us along the way. We also learned about the Japanese idea of shinrin-yoku – feeling free in nature under the canopy of trees, sky and stars – from a family from Tokyo. We returned fitter, more together and happier than when we set out.
Ann
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Forests and folklore in the Carpathians
Following a brilliant solo back-to-nature trip to the Carpathian mountains in Romania two years ago, I talked my two teenage boys into a family repeat earlier this summer – dangling the carrot of a trip to Count Dracula’s castle. In fact I only needed some minor encouragement from the vampire; the area itself was my ally. The forests, flanked by brooding mountains, were exciting to hike through anyway (with the help of a local guide), with the presence of brown bears, wolves and lynx adding to the thrills as we marched along. We came across medieval towns and villages that are rich in traditional folklore. One highlight was sampling local cheese and singing songs with villagers in the Bârza valley. The boys were rewarded with a ride on a horse-drawn cart to the next village, near Dracula’s alleged abode – Bran Castle. Don’t miss the stiff climb up to Postăvarul peak (1,799 metres) for great views over the area.
Joe
Where Austria’s hills are alive
Salzkammergut is the Austrian lake district. Lush meadows, forests and blue-green lakes make for endless days of swimming, biking and lying in the sun. No wonder that The Sound of Music was filmed here. Wolfgangsee has well-marked bike trails and opportunities to swim, alongside cafes serving delicious kaiserschmarrn (fluffy pancakes) and schnitzel. The nearby Fuschlsee has an incredible water park right by the lake: swimming pools, slides and plenty of quiet water in which to swim. It’s excellent entertainment for the entire family. We stayed in the newly renovated Feichtingerbauer, which offers complimentary access to the Fuschlseebad.
Neha
Paddleboarding in County Derry
By the end of the summer in 2021 we were at the end of our tether due to lockdowns and the lack of socialising opportunities. The kids had never been so quiet. My good friend Bob insisted we join his family at Swanns Bridge in County Derry for a paddleboard trip. Swanns Bridge is only a few minutes’ drive from the Atlantic beaches of Benone, but it makes use of the River Roe, rather than the ocean. After 20 minutes of trying to stay upright, something happened. For the first time in over a year we were distracted by something positive and by the beauty of the Roe. The only sound was water (mostly me falling in) and laughter. We’ve gone back since to be distracted for different reasons. It still works.
Kieran
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Trigbagging in the Peak District
Try trigbagging with the kids. Be it a weekend in the Peak District or Monday to Friday in the Lake District, it doesn’t have to cost a lot. You can pitch a tent in a campsite or get cheap accommodation in a youth hostel. My kids love scrambling up the hills, paddling in the streams that flow down them, spotting the ground-nesting birds, and tucking into the snacks that come with hiking. It teaches them so much about nature and personal safety, as well as about how quickly the weather can change in such places.
Rebecca
Searching for buried treasure on Ynys Môn (Anglesey)
Our best back-to-nature day out? A spontaneous treasure hunt through the dunes of Newborough beach on Ynys Môn (Anglesey). There’s no admission fee needed – just a hand-drawn pirate map, a flask of lemonade and plenty of imagination. The kids darted between marram grass and shoreline, hunting for shells and “buried treasure” (a biscuit tin full of sweets we’d hidden earlier). With views of Llanddwyn Island and a picnic under the pines, it was low-stress, big-memory magic. Just bring snacks, suncream and a good sense of adventure!
Robert Serebriakoff
Car-free and carefree on the Isle of Arran
We had a lovely summer holiday staying on a farm on the Isle of Arran. It’s the perfect car-free holiday for families, with a very easy train ride from Glasgow to the harbour [at the mainland ferry port of Ardrossan]. We stayed on the organic farm, picking our own fruit and veg then cooking it on our camping stove on the beach. The accommodation is right on the beach and on our first morning we stepped out and saw an enormous pod of dolphins. Our days were spent walking up and down the beach playing in rock pools. Absolute heaven! The owner of the farm, who used to work in a Michelin-starred restaurant, cooks fresh lobster and seafood most nights. You can watch him and his daughter going out on their kayak to make their daily catch.
Gemma
Rockpooling in East Sussex
One of our favourite trips out in nature is to the beach at Seven Sisters, East Sussex. The walk to get there is lovely – it’s flat and a good size for our boys to ride their bikes along. It’s beautiful, with the cliffs and rivers winding along, and there’s even a little empty building to look inside, which is very exciting for small children. When at the beach, there is so much to do, including wading across the part where the river joins the sea with a pretty decent current; rock pooling in crystal-clear waters; and, on a good day, there’s the sludgy sand to get filthy in! Bonus fun is had by watching walkers wade across the river to get to the cliffs, teetering on the painful rocks, as they don’t want to get their walking shoes wet; or by finding crabs in the rock pools; and seeing little islands made as the tide goes in and out. It’s extra fun if you win the competition to find the most interesting stone or find some treasured sea glass. Chalk is fun too, but common enough not to count as an entry into the competition.
Lauren
Solo Travellers
Now, Thailand Unites with Vietnam, Malaysia & Indonesia’s Unbelievable New Benefits for Solo Female Travelers in 2025—You Won’t Believe What They’re Offering
Friday, July 18, 2025
Southeast Asia continues to be one of the most sought-after regions for tourists worldwide, with solo female travelers increasingly flocking to its vibrant cities, stunning beaches, and culturally rich destinations. In 2025, governments across Southeast Asia have introduced several initiatives, schemes, and benefits to make solo travel safer, more accessible, and more enjoyable for women. These efforts demonstrate the region’s commitment to welcoming women travelers and ensuring their experiences are positive, empowering, and enriching.
Thailand: Leading the Charge with Safety and Inclusivity
Tourism Development Stimulus Program (2025)
Thailand’s tourism sector is experiencing a significant transformation as the government introduces the “Tourism Development Stimulus Program” to elevate the country’s appeal to high-value visitors. This program, launched in 2025, not only focuses on enriching the travel experience but also emphasizes safety and accessibility. For solo female travelers, Thailand’s reputation as one of the safest countries in Southeast Asia is enhanced by this initiative. Women traveling alone can now enjoy preferential prices on various services, from hotel accommodations to guided tours, making it easier to explore the diverse landscapes and attractions Thailand has to offer.
Enhanced Safety Measures for Solo Female Travelers
Thailand’s government continues to strengthen its commitment to creating a secure environment for tourists, especially solo female travelers. Efforts have been made to ensure that female tourists feel comfortable and confident exploring the country’s renowned cities, beaches, and temples. In 2025, the Thai government announced a series of safety protocols aimed at further reducing incidents of harassment and improving the overall tourist experience. These measures include the installation of more surveillance cameras in high-traffic tourist areas, increased police patrols, and a dedicated helpline for female travelers facing any issues.
Additionally, the introduction of gender sensitivity training for tourism-related personnel, including hotel staff and tour guides, is helping to foster a more inclusive and respectful environment for women.
Vietnam: Promoting Accessibility and Cultural Exchange
Tourism Development Stimulus Program (2025)
Vietnam’s tourism sector has seen rapid growth in recent years, and the government is continuing to build on this momentum with the launch of the “Tourism Development Stimulus Program.” In 2025, this initiative aims to offer a variety of tourism products at discounted prices, encouraging international visitors to experience the country’s natural beauty and vibrant culture. Solo female travelers can particularly benefit from these offerings, which include preferential access to local experiences, adventure tours, cultural programs, and wellness retreats.
Visa Exemption for Certain Countries
One of the standout policies for solo female travelers in Vietnam is the visa exemption for citizens of several countries, including Poland, the Czech Republic, and the Swiss Confederation. Under this scheme, visitors from these nations can stay in Vietnam for up to 45 days without the need for a visa. This makes it easier for solo travelers to plan and execute last-minute trips to Vietnam, without the hassle of lengthy visa applications.
For female travelers, this is a significant benefit, as it provides more flexibility in travel planning, especially for those who prefer spontaneous or extended journeys.
Solo Travel-Friendly Destinations in Vietnam
Vietnam offers a variety of destinations that are ideal for solo travelers, particularly women seeking a combination of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the peaceful shores of Phu Quoc Island, solo female travelers can explore Vietnam with confidence. The low crime rate and welcoming atmosphere add to the charm of this Southeast Asian gem.
Malaysia: Empowering Women Through Digital Nomadism
Digital Nomad Pass (2025)
Malaysia has embraced the growing trend of digital nomadism with the introduction of the DE Rantau Nomad Pass. Launched in 2025, this program allows remote workers, including solo female travelers, to live and work in Malaysia for a period of three to twelve months, with the option to extend their stay. The program has been designed to cater to the needs of digital nomads, offering them access to co-working spaces, local support, and a range of facilities that make it easier for them to live and work in the country.
For solo female travelers looking to combine work and leisure, Malaysia’s Digital Nomad Pass is an excellent opportunity to experience life in one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic regions. Whether it’s the vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur, the cultural heritage of Penang, or the laid-back atmosphere of Langkawi, Malaysia offers a variety of environments for solo women to enjoy a balanced lifestyle.
Gender-Inclusive Tourism Policies
In 2025, Malaysia introduced a series of policies to promote gender equality in tourism. These policies aim to create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for women travelers. The government has been working with local tourism operators to ensure that women traveling alone feel safe and respected during their visits. These efforts include training tourism professionals on issues such as sexual harassment, gender sensitivity, and providing better access to resources for women in the hospitality industry.
Solo Travel Safety Initiatives
While Malaysia is already known for its relatively low crime rate, solo female travelers can benefit from the continued implementation of safety initiatives across the country. Enhanced police presence in tourist areas, increased street lighting, and the availability of emergency helplines have all contributed to a safer environment for solo travelers.
Indonesia: Enhancing Accessibility for International Travelers
Expanded Visa-Free Access
Indonesia has been expanding its visa-free list in recent years to attract more international visitors. In 2025, the government announced that travelers from countries such as Brazil and Turkey could enter Indonesia without a visa for up to 30 days. This expansion benefits solo female travelers who seek hassle-free travel to one of Southeast Asia’s most popular destinations, particularly the island of Bali, known for its solo travel-friendly atmosphere.
Solo Travel-Friendly Destinations in Indonesia
Solo female travelers looking for a blend of adventure and relaxation will find Indonesia to be an ideal destination. Bali, in particular, is a favorite among women traveling alone, with its serene beaches, vibrant culture, and abundant wellness options. Whether you’re looking to practice yoga in Ubud, explore ancient temples in Yogyakarta, or relax on the beaches of Gili Islands, Indonesia offers diverse experiences for every kind of solo traveler.
Indonesia’s friendly locals and low crime rate make it a safe and enjoyable destination for women traveling solo. Many hotels, hostels, and resorts in Indonesia are also female-friendly, offering women-only dorms and amenities.
The Growing Trend of Women-Friendly Tourism in Southeast Asia
As more women around the world opt for solo travel, Southeast Asia has emerged as a leading destination for those seeking safety, adventure, and cultural immersion. The region’s governments have recognized the importance of fostering a secure and welcoming environment for solo female travelers, and their continued efforts are making Southeast Asia a top choice for women travelers in 2025.
Global Recognition for Safe Travel
Several countries in Southeast Asia have earned recognition for being among the safest in the world for solo travelers, with Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia leading the charge. In 2025, these nations have continued to improve their infrastructure, security measures, and policies to ensure that women can explore the region with confidence.
Cultural Sensitivity and Respect for Solo Female Travelers
One of the most significant trends in 2025 is the increased emphasis on cultural sensitivity and respect for solo female travelers. Many Southeast Asian countries are offering gender sensitivity training for tourism staff, providing resources for women travelers, and ensuring that women have access to safe spaces. This cultural shift is making Southeast Asia an increasingly attractive destination for female tourists.
The year 2025 marks a significant turning point in Southeast Asia’s approach to solo female travel. From enhanced safety measures and gender-inclusive policies to the introduction of digital nomad programs and visa exemptions, governments across the region are actively working to create an environment where solo female travelers feel safe, empowered, and supported.
Whether it’s the vibrant streets of Bangkok, the tranquil beaches of Bali, or the cultural wonders of Hanoi, Southeast Asia offers a wealth of experiences that cater to solo female travelers. With the introduction of various schemes and benefits, these destinations are not only becoming more accessible but also more welcoming to women exploring the world on their own.
As more women seek to explore the world solo, Southeast Asia’s commitment to providing a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment ensures that these countries will remain top destinations for solo female travelers for years to come.
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