Holland (or the Netherlands) is world-renowned for its vibrant and stunning tulip fields, particularly in the spring when the country’s iconic flower blooms in a brilliant array of colours. The tulip season typically begins in mid-April and lasts until May, providing the perfect backdrop for a memorable cycling adventure. The country's extensive network of well-maintained bike paths makes it easy and enjoyable to explore these magnificent fields by bicycle. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, a tulip-themed cycling route is an unmissable experience during springtime in the Netherlands.

In this blog, we’ll take you through the best tulip field cycling routes in Holland, each offering its own unique beauty, picturesque landscapes, and unforgettable views of the country's famous spring blooms.

1. The Keukenhof Cycle Route

Distance: 20-40 km (depending on your route)

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Best for: Exploring the Keukenhof Gardens and surrounding tulip fields

The Keukenhof is often referred to as the "Garden of Europe" and is one of the most famous and largest flower gardens in the world. Located in Lisse, this vast park showcases millions of tulips and other flowers in full bloom. The Keukenhof Cycle Route allows cyclists to explore both the Keukenhof Gardens and the surrounding tulip fields, making it a must-do for any tulip lover.

Highlights of the Route:

• Keukenhof Gardens: Start your cycling adventure at the Keukenhof Gardens, where you can wander through meticulously designed flowerbeds filled with millions of tulips. The gardens are divided into various themed sections, offering an explosion of colors and scents that are sure to impress.
• Lisse and Nearby Towns: After enjoying Keukenhof, head out into the nearby towns of Lisse, Hillegom, and Noordwijkerhout, which are surrounded by vast fields of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. The rural countryside around these areas is filled with beautiful flower farms and picturesque views.
• Tulip Fields: Cycle through miles of tulip fields in full bloom. The iconic rows of tulips in vibrant reds, yellows, purples, and pinks stretch out as far as the eye can see.

This cycling route is perfect for families and beginners, offering an easy pace and a chance to enjoy the beauty of the tulip fields while learning about the importance of flower cultivation in the Netherlands.

2. The Flower Strip Route (Bollenstreek Route)

Distance: 40-60 km

Difficulty: Moderate

Best for: A mix of flower fields, charming villages, and scenic views

The Bollenstreek (or "Flower Strip") is one of the most famous regions in the Netherlands for tulip cultivation. Stretching from Harlem in the north to The Hague in the south, the Flower Strip is home to miles of colorful tulip fields, daffodils, and hyacinths. The Bollenstreek Route takes cyclists on a scenic journey through this iconic region, offering a mix of flower fields, quaint villages, and cultural landmarks.

Highlights of the Route:

• Harlem: Begin in Harlem, a charming city known for its rich history and beautiful architecture. From here, cycle south through picturesque villages and farmlands, taking in the beauty of the tulip fields that dot the landscape.
• Tulip Fields: As you cycle, you’ll pass through fields of blooming tulips, with rows of vibrant colors lining your route. The tulip fields are often interspersed with traditional Dutch windmills, adding to the picturesque scenery.
• Noordwijk and Leiden: Continue your ride through the seaside town of Noordwijk and the university city of Leiden, where you can take a break and explore the town's historical attractions and charming canals.

The Bollenstreek Route is perfect for cyclists who want to experience the full range of the Netherlands’ tulip cultivation, combining beautiful flower fields with cultural and historical exploration. The route offers both relaxed cycling and some moderate challenges with its longer distances.

3. The North Holland Tulip Route

Distance: 50-80 km (depending on the route chosen)

Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

Best for: A longer route through diverse landscapes

For those who enjoy longer and more challenging routes, the North Holland Tulip Route is an excellent choice. This 50-80 km route takes cyclists through the beautiful tulip fields of North Holland, offering a mix of coastal views, scenic countryside, and charming Dutch towns. While it’s a longer route, it’s still doable for cyclists of varying abilities, thanks to the flat terrain.

Highlights of the Route:

• Alkmaar: Begin your cycling tour in Alkmaar, a historic town famous for its cheese market. Cycle northward through the tulip fields, where you’ll witness rows of colourful tulips stretching out as far as the eye can see.
• Texel Island: If you're up for a more adventurous side trip, consider cycling over to Texel Island. This beautiful island offers breathtaking views of the North Sea and stunning wildflower meadows, adding a unique twist to your tulip cycling experience.
• Schagen: After passing through small villages and picturesque farms, you'll reach the town of Schagen, where you can rest and enjoy the local culture. From here, continue your route through fields of blooming tulips before cycling back to Alkmaar.

This route offers the perfect combination of cycling through tulip fields and experiencing the diverse landscapes of North Holland, making it an excellent choice for more experienced cyclists.

4. The Flevoland Tulip Route

Distance: 40-50 km

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Best for: Peaceful cycling and vast fields of tulips

Located in the province of Flevoland, the Flevoland Tulip Route is an idyllic route that showcases some of the Netherlands' most impressive and expansive tulip fields. Flevoland is known for its vast, open landscapes, providing a tranquil cycling experience amidst endless rows of tulips.

Highlights of the Route:

• Lelystad: Begin your route in Lelystad, the provincial capital of Flevoland. From here, cycle through the vast polder landscapes, where rows of tulips in full bloom create a vibrant carpet of color.
• Dronten and Biddinghuizen: The route passes through the towns of Dronten and Biddinghuizen, where you’ll find plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the views of the surrounding fields. Along the way, keep an eye out for traditional Dutch farms and windmills, which add to the charm of the area.
• Tulip Farms: Flevoland is home to some of the largest tulip farms in the country. As you cycle, you’ll pass through seemingly endless fields of tulips in a range of colors, making for a spectacular visual experience.

The Flevoland Tulip Route is ideal for cyclists looking for a peaceful, easy-going route that focuses on tulip fields and scenic beauty. With its gentle terrain, it’s a great option for families or casual cyclists.

5. The South Holland Tulip Route

Distance: 25-35 km

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Best for: A short, scenic route through the heart of the tulip-growing region

The South Holland Tulip Route is a fantastic option for those who prefer a shorter, more relaxed cycling trip. This route takes cyclists through the heart of South Holland, one of the most famous regions for tulip cultivation. It’s the perfect way to experience the best of the country’s spring blooms in a manageable, easy-to-ride circuit.

Highlights of the Route:

• Honselersdijk and Naaldwijk: Start your journey in the charming towns of Honselersdijk and Naaldwijk, located in the Westland region. These towns are surrounded by fields of tulips and other flowers, offering spectacular views as you cycle through the area.
• Hague and Scheveningen: After cycling through tulip fields, take a break in The Hague, the political capital of the Netherlands, or head to Scheveningen, a seaside town with a popular beach promenade.
• Delft: Another beautiful stop along the route is Delft, a historic city famous for its blue pottery and charming canals. It's a great place to stop for a meal and explore the local culture.

This route is perfect for cyclists who want to experience a mix of tulip fields, Dutch towns, and some cultural landmarks without committing to a long, challenging ride.

Conclusion

Cycling through the tulip fields of the Netherlands is a quintessential spring experience. Whether you’re cycling through the iconic Keukenhof Gardens, exploring the vast Bollenstreek Flower Strip, or enjoying the peaceful countryside of Flevoland, the Netherlands offers a wealth of tulip-themed cycling routes for all skill levels. Each route offers a unique perspective of the country’s colorful tulip fields, and with its flat terrain, well-marked bike paths, and bike-friendly culture, the Netherlands is an ideal destination for a family-friendly spring cycling adventure. So, grab your bike, pack a picnic, and get ready to experience the breathtaking beauty of Holland’s tulip fields!