A bicycle daytrip in the countryside just outside Amsterdam.
Starting point train station Weesp.

The countryside just outside and south-east of Amsterdam is typical Dutch.  Rivers and canals, windmills and small historic towns, medieval castles and elegant mansions.  
But also some higher grounds, souvenirs of the Ice Ages, covered with woods and heath.
Great for a relaxing bicycle trip.  
And also ideal if you want to learn more about Dutch history. For in this compact region, everything that formed this country during the last couple of millennia can clearly be seen. Natural developments and man-made changes alike.

Bicycle trip of half a day (about 25 km) :
From the station to the old centre of Weesp and the river Vecht (a few hundred meters). On the waterfront  the local tourist office. Cross the old bridge, and cycle along the river to Muiden. Visit this small fortified town, the river harbor with lot’s of old sailing vessels and medieval castle Muiderslot (www.muiderslot.nl). Then along the coastal dike to charming Muiderberg. Back inland along natural reserve Naardermeer (wetlands) to the river Vecht and the ruins of fort Uitermeer. Cycling along the river to Weesp you pass a couple of windmills.

Bicycle trip of a whole day (45 km, or more if you want) :
A “fortified towns trip”, Weesp – Muiden – Muiderberg - Naarden - Weesp.
Naarden being one of the best preserved fortified towns in Europe. Unique 17th century atmosphere, and interesting Fortress Museum (www.vestingmuseum.nl).
By making the trip about 10 km longer you can cycle through woods, heath and moors, and along lakes and marshland. From fortified Naarden direction Hilversum, and via Ankeveen back to Weesp.

Prepare your trip with a good detailed map and/or get a “Touristical Bicycle Routes-map” at one of the local VVV-tourist information offices (if you want to follow signposted routes). 
On www.wikitravel.com (English version), you can find good information on Weesp, Muiden and Naarden, and things to see and to do. This linkpage ( www.guideholland.com./links.html ) focusses on bicycle day trips in the region.
Weesp has direct train links with Amsterdam (15 minutes) and Schiphol Airport (30 minutes). Train timetables www.ns.nl . Bike rental possible at station Weesp.