If any place epitomises spring in its purest form, it is undoubtedly the tulip fields of Holland. From late March to early May, the landscape surrounding Keukenhof Park transforms into an endless sea of colour, as if painted by an overturned palette. The finest way to explore this floral expanse is through a combination of cycling and strolling.
Core Area: Lisse and Noordwijk Flower Fields
The most spectacular views lie not within the park itself, but its surroundings—particularly the stretch between Lisse and Noordwijk. Here, the flower fields stretch endlessly and are freely accessible to the public.
Cycling Route: Hire a bicycle from Noordwijk or Haarlem railway station and follow the specially designated flower field cycling routes. These paths weave you through vast swathes of colourful stripes.
Walking Experience: During your cycle, you can easily lock up your bike and venture onto the narrow footpaths between the fields. Here, you can immerse yourself in the visual and olfactory spectacle of millions of tulips, hyacinths, and daffodils.
Activity Length: Cycling routes range from 10km to 30km, allowing you to choose your preferred distance.
Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆ The Netherlands is flat! Cycling and walking are effortless.
Must-See Highlights
Keukenhof Gardens: The title ‘Garden of Europe’ is well-deserved. Though crowded, the floral displays, variety, and landscape design are world-class, making it well worth a visit.
Field Photography: A paradise for photography enthusiasts. The softest, most saturated colours appear during the early morning or evening light.
Farmers’ Direct Shops: Keep an eye out for roadside self-service stalls or growers’ warehouses for the freshest, most affordable flower bulbs or cut blooms.
Practical Information & Tips
Best Time: Mid-to-late April marks the peak of tulip blooming.
Transport: Take the train from Amsterdam Central Station to Haarlem or Leiden, then transfer to a bus heading for the flower fields or Keukenhof.
Respect the Rules: Do not walk into the flower fields to take photographs; respect the flower growers’ labour. Stay on the designated paths between the fields.
Essential Gear: Comfortable footwear and a rucksack for water and snacks. Spring winds can be strong in Holland, so dress for protection.
Amidst Holland’s flower fields, spring ceases to be an abstract notion, materialising instead as patches of colour saturated to the utmost. Cycling through these flowing rainbows, wind in your hair, you’ll experience a pure, magnificent and vibrant joy. This is nature’s limited-time spectacle – miss it, and you’ll have to wait another year.
