The Eleven Cities Tour in a Polestar EV
A country famous for its windmills, tulips, and cycling culture, the Netherlands has seriously embraced sustainability.
Travelers can now experience the legendary Eleven Cities Tour (Elfstedentocht) in the most eco-friendly way: in a sleek Polestar electric vehicle, powered by Fastned’s renewable energy network.
The historic Elfstedentocht route — traditionally a grueling 200km ice skating competition through Friesland’s frozen canals — has been reimagined as the ultimate responsible road trip. This cultural pilgrimage through 11 charming Frisian cities now serves as the perfect showcase for the Netherlands’ commitment to green tourism.
Polestar: clean comfort meets Dutch landscapes
The Polestar 2, of sleek Scandinavian design, is the perfect means to navigate the picturesque Dutch countryside. A panoramic glass roof offers continuous views Friesland’s dramatic skies, while the vehicle delivers smooth, silent acceleration — ideal for winding through medieval city centers or cruising alongside rural dikes.
With a range exceeding 400 km on a single charge, the Polestar easily handles the entire circuit without range anxiety. The car’s integrated Google navigation system seamlessly guides you between historic landmarks and charging stations.
Fastned powers your journey with the wind
The remarkable Fastned network makes EV travel exceptionally convenient. Their solar-canopied charging stations, powered by 100% renewable wind and solar energy, offer ultra-fast charging in 15-30 minutes.
The journey begins in Leeuwarden, Friesland’s capital and a 2018 European Capital of Culture, before meandering through the timeless beauty of cities such as Sneek, with its iconic water gate, and Hindeloopen, renowned for its distinctive folk art and maritime history.
In Harlingen, stroll along the historic harbor while your vehicle recharges, watching traditional sailing vessels navigate the UNESCO-listed Wadden Sea. Nearby, the charming village of Franeker houses the world’s oldest working planetarium, built by amateur astronomer Eise Eisinga in the 18th century.
The eco-conscious journey continues, with many responsible lodging options along the way. From carbon-neutral boutique hotels in converted historic buildings to organic farm stays, accommodations increasingly feature EV charging facilities, locally sourced food, and zero-waste policies.
A model for responsible tourism
This electrified Eleven Cities Tour represents the future of responsible travel — preserving cultural heritage while embracing technological innovation. As you glide silently through centuries-old streets in an electric vehicle, you’re participating in the Netherlands’ ongoing story of harmonizing tradition with responsible progress.
Travelers seeking authentic experiences with minimal environmental impact will find this electric journey through Friesland perfectly blends of cultural immersion, cutting-edge technology, and environmental responsibility — a truly Dutch approach to responsible tourism.
