Country of Tulips Tour

The Country of Tulips Tour: A Detailed Look at Holland’s Floral Heartland

If you’re dreaming of floating through endless fields of brightly colored tulips, exploring historic towns, and cycling on peaceful Dutch paths, the Country of Tulips Tour offers an engaging way to experience Holland’s most iconic sights. For about $2,990 per person, this 6-day journey takes you not just to see the blooms but to live the culture, with personal guides, boutique hotels, and delicious local cuisine shaping a memorable adventure.

What we particularly love about this trip is the careful balance between guided exploration and free time — especially at places like Keukenhof, where arriving early helps beat the crowds, and Delft, where you can wander at your own pace. The expert guidance of Denise, who personally leads the tour, makes all the difference when it comes to insider tips and authentic stories. Another highlight is the thoughtfully curated dining experiences, from Dutch pancakes to a lively Indonesian rijstafel, both showcasing the country’s culinary diversity.

One possible consideration is the group size — limited to just 14 travelers — which is excellent for intimacy but might feel a bit crowded if you’re used to traveling solo or in smaller groups. Also, the cost could seem steep for some, but when you factor in luxury hotels, guided cycling, entrance fees, and most meals, the value becomes clear. This tour is best suited for active travelers who love biking, culture, and enjoying Holland’s scenic beauty at a relaxed pace.

This tour is an ideal pick for culture enthusiasts, flower lovers, and anyone who appreciates detailed local stories combined with scenic cycling. If you’re eager to see Holland’s famous blooms while savoring its history and cuisine, you’ll find this experience both enriching and enjoyable.

Key Points

• Authentic Holland experience: Combines floral beauty, historic towns, and scenic countryside.
• Expert guides and support: Led by Denise, offering personalized insights and assistance.
• Quality accommodations: Stay in three carefully selected 3- and 4-star hotels, each with its unique charm.
• Flexible and social: Small group size ensures personalized attention and lively camaraderie.
• Culinary delights: Enjoy four delicious dinners, including traditional Dutch and Indonesian options.
• Active exploration: Bike along flat, safe paths — perfect for all levels of cyclists.

In-Depth Review of the Country of Tulips Tour

Setting the Scene: Holland’s Famous Tulips and Historic Towns

Holland’s flower gardens and charming towns create a postcard-perfect setting, and this tour captures that essence beautifully. Starting in Leiden, a city with connections to Rembrandt and the Pilgrims, you immediately get a sense of Dutch history. Walking through St. Peter’s Church and seeing where the Pilgrims once prayed offers a tangible link to the past, enriching the experience beyond mere sightseeing.

The tour’s first night in Noordwijkerhout, close to blooming fields and dunes, sets the tone for the week. Cycling through the tulip fields just inland from your hotel provides an unforgettable first impression — a sea of color that is best enjoyed early in the morning before the crowds arrive.

Day 1: Leiden and Noordwijkerhout

Meeting at the Leiden Central Station at 11 a.m., you’re greeted by friendly guides and fellow travelers. The brief city walk introduces you to Leiden’s picturesque core and historical sites. The visit to St. Peter’s Church and the Pilgrim’s route to Delftshaven offers a taste of Dutch history intertwined with your floral adventure.

Later, you transfer to Noordwijkerhout, where your hotel lies in the heart of the tulip landscape. A gentle introductory bike ride among the blooms offers a relaxed start, and the dinner at your hotel restaurant provides a perfect introduction to Dutch cuisine.

Day 2: The Magnificence of Keukenhof

An early start to Keukenhof ensures you avoid the heaviest crowds — a smart move, as this world-renowned garden is a visual feast of over 6 million bulbs. Wandering among sculptures, ponds, and fountains, you’ll see why this garden is a highlight for flower lovers worldwide. The vibrant colors and floral arrangements make for fantastic photos.

In the afternoon, a local tulip expert, Herman van Amsterdam, joins you for a biking tour through Vogelenzang and the tulip fields. His knowledgeable commentary offers insights into bulb planting, harvesting, and the history of the tulip industry, making the ride both beautiful and educational. As one reviewer said, “The experience is superb: communication, planning, maps, hotel bookings, bicycles — very well handled.”

Day 3: Moving to The Hague and Delft

Departing Noordwijk, your bike ride through sand dunes and past elegant estates sets the stage for a day blending nature and civics. Arriving in The Hague, you’ll see government buildings and the King’s Palace, a reminder of the Dutch political heart. It’s a quick but rewarding stop that offers a taste of modern Dutch life amid scenic surroundings.

Lunching on Dutch pancakes, you then bike to Delft, famed for its blue pottery. Visiting a Delft pottery factory gives you a chance to see traditional craftsmanship firsthand. Dinner in Delft features the Indonesian rijstafel, which is both delicious and a window into the Dutch colonial past.

Day 4: Exploring Delft and Nearby Waterways

Your morning in Delft allows plenty of free time to visit the New Church, where William of Orange is buried, or simply browse cozy shops. Climbing the bell tower offers sweeping views of the city’s rooftops.

In the afternoon, you have the option to bike to Schipluiden and watch the barges and cargo ships pass on the Nieuwe Waterweg, connecting Rotterdam to the North Sea. This provides a fascinating glimpse into Holland’s maritime economy and modern trade.

Day 5 & 6: Scenic Biking Through Holland’s Green Heart

The longer rides through Noorden and the Green Heart of Holland showcase the country’s agricultural prowess and natural beauty. Expect to see windmills, lakes, and wildflower meadows, all framed by traditional Dutch canals.

The support van ensures you’re never far from assistance, making the mostly flat terrain accessible for cyclists of various skill levels. The picturesque peat river Meije and lakes created by historical peat digging add extra charm, and the gourmet hotel on the lake provides a serene end to your days.

The Value and Experience

While the price point might seem high, it reflects the quality of accommodations, guided expertise, entrance fees, and most meals. The tour’s personalized approach, with small group size, makes for richer interactions and tailored experiences.

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery, with one reviewer noting, “A really nice bicycle tour with a great organizer.” The balance of guided tours and free time allows you to soak in the atmosphere at your leisure.

Practical Details and Considerations

The 6-day length is perfect for those wanting a comprehensive taste of Holland without feeling rushed. The flat bike paths mean even less experienced cyclists will enjoy the route, though you should be comfortable with multiple hours of riding each day. The hotel choices—on the ocean, in the historic center of Delft, and by a lake—are thoughtfully selected to enhance your connection to each locale.

The support van is a thoughtful feature, offering rest options without sacrificing the outdoor experience. Meals are well-curated, with four dinners included, and the local guidance ensures you get authentic Dutch flavors.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re an active traveler seeking a combination of nature, history, and culture, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate guided storytelling and want a comfortable, well-organized trip. It’s a good pick for flower enthusiasts, history buffs, and food lovers alike.

The only caveat is the cost, but considering the hotels, entrance fees, meals, and guided expertise, many find it offers excellent value for a premium experience. If you’re looking to understand Holland’s floral and cultural heart, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic journey.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for cyclists of all skill levels?
Yes, the route features mostly flat, safe bike paths. You should be comfortable riding several hours daily, but the support van is there in case you need a break.

Are the hotels comfortable and well-located?
Absolutely. You’ll stay in three carefully chosen 3- and 4-star hotels, each with a unique setting — from ocean views to lakeside tranquility and historic Delft.

What meals are included in the tour?
Five lunches and four dinners are included, with particular highlights like Dutch pancakes and the Indonesian rijstafel, giving you a taste of local flavors.

Can I expect personalized attention?
Yes, with a group limited to 14 travelers, guides can focus on your needs and share expert insights about each location.

What makes early visits to Keukenhof worthwhile?
Arriving early helps you avoid large crowds and gives you unobstructed views of the stunning displays of over 6 million bulbs.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Given the active biking and cultural focus, it’s best suited for active adults and older children comfortable with cycling for several hours each day.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable cycling gear, rain gear (just in case), a camera for those vibrant fields, and a sense of adventure.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 6 days before the tour start for a full refund. Cancellations less than 6 days in advance are non-refundable, but policies may vary if the minimum number isn’t met.

To sum it up, the Country of Tulips Tour offers a thoughtfully crafted experience blending scenic beauty, historic towns, and delicious food — all guided by passionate experts. It suits travelers eager to explore Holland’s floral and cultural landscape at a relaxed pace, with the benefits of small groups and quality accommodations. For those who love active outdoor days combined with cultural insights, this trip promises a bloom-filled adventure worth every penny.