Hilversum, Blaricum, Laren

Massive villas, luxury cars, and designer boutiques: immerse yourself in the world of the Gooische Vrouwen. Pedal through the streets where Cheryl, Claire, Anouk, Willemijn, and Roelien lived during the series. The popular show, created by Linda de Mol, aired between 2005 and 2009, followed by two films. In 2024, the program returned to television.

This delightful cycling route starts on the outskirts of Laren, the oldest village in 't Gooi. Once home to the Funnel Beaker culture around 2500 BC, Laren transformed into a haven for the nouveau riche with the arrival of the tram line to Hilversum and Amsterdam. Artists and commuters discovered Laren and Blaricum, including Anton Mauve, Jan Sluijters, Ferdinand Hart Nibbrig, and William Singer.

The Gooische Steam Tram made it easier to travel from the capital to Huizen, Blaricum, Laren, and Hilversum. Wealthy Amsterdammers took this tram to build a new life in the Gooi, surrounded by luxury. Due to numerous accidents, the tram earned the nickname "Gooische Moordenaar" (Gooische Murderer). It passed landmarks like the Singer Museum of Modern Art and the Larense Brink, home to one of the oldest existing poffertjes stalls from March to September.

In the former fishing village of Huizen, cycle along the Gooimeer. Historically, residents gazed from the old center over meadows to the Zuiderzee. Leaving the water behind, you'll pass through Blaricummermeent, a relatively new villa district reminiscent of a Gooische Vrouwen film. Soon, you'll find yourself amidst farms and meadows in Eemnes, where many farmers have designated land as bird breeding grounds. How many species can you spot?

Passing the beautiful Groeneveld Castle, you exit the Gooi towards the picturesque Lage Vuursche. In 2021, it had only 280 residents, one of whom is quite special. Drakensteyn Castle is where Princess Beatrix took up residence in 2014. The area around the castle offers wonderful opportunities for walking and cycling.

Before returning to your starting point, you'll traverse Hilversum. With the establishment of the Dutch Signal Device Factory (NSF), the first radio broadcasts originated here. Consequently, more broadcasters settled in the area, leading to Hilversum becoming the Media City. At the edge of the media park, you'll find Beeld & Geluid, an interactive museum about the Media City.