The Dutch are famous for doing all kinds of things on bikes — holding hands, transporting furniture, and probably juggling stroopwafels while going backwards. Now, they’ve outdone themselves with roads that encourage bikers to sing aloud. 🎤
Ten years ago a Dutch columnist pitched the brilliant idea of a zangfietspad (singing cycle path) — a designated cycle path where people can, well, sing and cycle.
She envisioned these paths to invite bikers to channel their inner Beyoncé while traveling across the Dutch roads.
Sounds awesome? That’s what the Netherlands thought too. So, since the idea was first pitched, singing cycle paths have popped up in various Dutch cities, towns, and villages.
Wanna sing and cycle your heart out? Here’s where
According to the Fietsersbond, you can find singing cycle paths in Amsterdam, Almere, Hierden, Amstelveen, Dongen, Houten, Den Bosch, Drimmelen, Tiel, Veenendaal, Norg, Leiden, Zoetermeer, Lansingerland, Alphen aan de Rijn and Roermond.
Don’t feel down if there’s none on your usual route. If you’re a zangfietspad enthusiast, and would like to set one up near where you cycle — you can!
READ MORE | Dutch Quirk #129: Bike recklessly — and somehow remain unhurt
Just reach out to your gemeente (municipality), and politely explain that singing your heart out to Bohemian Rhapsody on the way to work is non-negotiable. Yes, we’re serious.
Oh, and before you ask: No, the police won’t write you a ticket for skipping the sign’s suggestion. The zangfietspad is just a cheerful reminder to take your spectacular singing beyond the shower curtains. 🚿
How do you feel about dedicated singing cycle paths all around the country? Let us know in the comments below.