Paddling near Alkmaar, North Holland

Alkmaar sits in the heart of North Holland, surrounded by a network of historic canals, poldervaarten, and open water. The city's own grachten are a natural starting point for SUP and canoe trips, while the nearby Eilandspolder draws paddlers looking for quieter, nature-rich water between small islands. Larger still waters such as the Markermeer and IJsselmeer lie within reach for those wanting open-water paddling.