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The Netherlands is renowned for its stunning tulip fields, which burst into a kaleidoscope of colors during the spring season, creating a breathtaking landscape that attracts visitors from all over the world. And there’s no better way to “go Dutch” than by getting on a bike and taking in the sights and sounds of the beautiful Netherlands.
Cycling through the tulip fields offers a unique way to experience the beauty of these vibrant flowers up close. As you pedal along the winding paths, you’ll be surrounded by row upon row of tulips in every shade imaginable – from brilliant reds and yellows to soft pinks and purples. The sight and scent of the flowers in full bloom create a sensory experience like no other.
Spring is the ideal time to embark on a bike tour of the tulip fields, as this is when the flowers are in peak bloom. The weather is generally mild, with temperatures warming up after the cold winter months, making it ideal for exploring the countryside and soaking in the natural beauty of the Netherlands.
One of the best routes for a tulip field bike tour is through the famous flower-growing region known as the “Bollenstreek,” located between Haarlem and Leiden. This area is home to some of the largest and most picturesque tulip fields in the country, with endless rows of flowers stretching as far as the eye can see. As you pedal through this scenic landscape, you’ll have ample opportunities to stop and take photographs, or simply pause to admire the beauty of your surroundings.
In addition to the tulip fields, a bike tour of the Netherlands offers the chance to explore charming villages, picturesque windmills, and scenic countryside. You can also visit world-famous attractions such as the Keukenhof Gardens, which showcases millions of flowering bulbs in a stunning display of color and fragrance.
Cycling Through the Tulip Fields
My personal experience was an unforgettable bike tour through the tulip fields surrounding Keukenhof on a perfect spring day. Gathered in front of Keukenhof, our group met our knowledgeable guide and received our bikes before embarking on a leisurely 20-kilometer ride through Lisse. Don’t let the distance intimidate you; frequent stops along the way allow ample time to admire the vibrant blooms and soak in the scenery.
As we cycled through the bollenstreek, we were greeted by fields bursting with colorful daffodils, fragrant hyacinths, and the iconic tulips. Our guide led us to select flower fields, where we were granted permission to enter and carefully navigate between the rows to capture stunning photographs.
Forget what you heard about tiptoeing through the tulips. It’s a big NO. There are strict rules about walking in the flower fields because of the possibility of damaging the flowers and bulbs or spreading diseases among them; also because most flower fields are private property. Our tour guide had permission to take us into a few of the fields and showed us how to carefully navigate between the rows to get those perfect pictures.
Visiting a tulip farm was a highlight of the tour. It provided us with the opportunity to engage with a bulb grower while indulging in Dutch delicacies like stroopwafels and appeltaart (Dutch apple cake/pie). For the adventurous souls, a shot of tulip vodka added a unique twist to the experience, though moderation was advised given it wasn’t even noon, and because we still had plenty of kilometers ahead of us.
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Downtown Lisse was our next destination where we got a a memorable behind-the-scenes glimpse at one of the floats for the Bloemencorso Bollenstreek (flower parade) and even got to add a few flowers to the float (though based on the anxious look on the person’s face, I’m sure she promptly undid our handiwork as soon as we left).
The Bloemencorso Bollenstreek, also known as the Keukenhof Flower Parade due to its route passing by the main entrance of the Keukenhof, is the most famous parade in Holland. Drawing over a million spectators from across the globe, this vibrant parade showcases elaborate floats adorned with spring flowers such as Hyacinths, daffodils, and tulips, evoking the quintessential essence of Dutch springtime.
Concluding our journey in Lisse, we returned to Keukenhof, bidding farewell to our bikes and newfound friends. I highly recommend complementing your bike tour with a visit to Keukenhof to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Dutch flora.
Tulip Field Bicycle Tours
There are several companies to choose from that offer tulip bike tours. Here are some to consider:
Keukenhof Guided Bike Tour – Guided bike tours focused on exploring and providing insight into the famous Keukenhof Gardens and surrounding areas and attractions.
Tulip Bicycle Tour – Embark on a 2.5-hour guided adventure, pedaling through vibrant flower fields in full bloom. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll be taken to the most picturesque spots for capturing breathtaking photos. Explore the flower fields surrounding Keukenhof, the Agatha Church, and the delightful center of Lisse. Along the cycling route, we’ll pause for a 20-25-minute break at ‘De Tulperij,’ where you can wander through a showcase garden of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths.
Flower Tour – Dive into an authentic Dutch experience as you hop on and off your rental bike to discover the most enchanting flower fields and attractions. Cycle through the flower-filled landscapes around Keukenhof at your own pace. Electric scooters and Twizy’s are also available for rent.
Baja Bikes – Take off on a 2.5-hour bike tour through the Flower Bulb region, exploring its numerous highlights and delving into the history of Lisse. Led by an English-speaking guide, you’ll visit Keukenhof Castle, windmills, and beautiful flower fields for an unforgettable experience.
Bollenstreek.nl – Pedal alongside a local guide on a guided bike tour through the stunning tulip fields. Learn about the history of tulips and other spring flowers as you discover the beautiful and diverse surroundings.
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Updated Winter 2024
