Experience the bulbs and flowers beyond mass tourism
When you think of Holland, you probably think of flowers. The Bollenstreek — the country’s largest and most famous bulb-growing region — is famous for its breathtaking colors in spring.
For many visitors, the Keukenhof flower garden is high on the wish list. And we understand why: nowhere else will you find such an overwhelming display of flowers on this scale. Although it can get (very) busy, it is definitely impressive and worth experiencing.
At Amsterdam Odyssey, we believe the best experience goes beyond a single highlight. Therefore, in our Countryside and flowers tours we focus on the fascinating stories and passionate people behind the blooms. We combine iconic sights with more personal, small-scale encounters. When deciding on the precise route and stops, we always tailor to your interests. That means that we can either include the Keukenhof or focuses entirely on lesser known places.
The Countryside and flowers tour is only available during spring. If you’d like to explore the Dutch countryside at other times of the year, we instead recommend our Countryside and windmill tour.
Dutch landscapes: polders and beach ridges
This tour takes you south of Amsterdam. Interestingly, the region of the bulbs and flowers was already inhabited before Amsterdam was. The soil, a mix of sand and peat, turned out to be perfect for growing bulbs. As we explore the area, you’ll learn about its rich history and development.
We’ll also drive through one of the largest polders in the Netherlands: the former Haarlemmermeer lake. In the mid-19th century, the lake was drained to create over 200 km² of new land. As a result, the landscape changed dramatically. As we pass through, you’ll hear more about the fascinating story of how the Dutch transformed water into land, shaping the countryside as we know it today.
Tulips and bulbs in the Bulb Region
The Bollenstreek (Bulb Region) is not just beautiful — it’s also a highly specialized agricultural area with a long history. As mentioned, the sandy soil behind the dunes turned out to be perfect for growing flower bulbs, especially tulips.
At a local tulip farm or flower experience, you’ll learn all about tulips and bulbs. Although tulips grow from bulbs, they are actually two distinct products, each with their own cultivation process and history.
One of the biggest challenges for bulb farmers today is the damage caused by visitors walking through the fields in search of the perfect photo. To protect their crops, one farming family therefore created a dedicated field with hundreds of different kinds of tulips, specifically designed for visitors to walk through and enjoy. That way, the flowers in production remain untouched, while you still get to experience the colors up close — a win–win solution we’re happy to share with you.
Optional varieties and customization
Every Amsterdam Odyssey tour is private and customizable, and this experience is no exception. While the combination of Keukenhof and a smaller-scale visit is our standard, we are, of course, happy to adjust the program to your preferences.
For example, you can choose to visit an organic, family-run rose farm, where you’ll enjoy coffee or tea with homemade apple pie surrounded by flowers. Alternatively, we can include another type of local entrepreneur in the Bollenstreek, each with their own story and approach to sustainability.
If you prefer to skip Keukenhof altogether, we can design a fully off-the-beaten-path experience with multiple smaller stops or a more scenic countryside route. In addition, we can include a visit to a historic windmill or pumping station, offering deeper insight into Dutch water management.
Whichever version you choose, you’ll travel in comfort with our electric transport, guided by someone who brings the landscape, history, and people of this region to life.
FAQ
Where is the meeting point?
Since we customize each tour, the starting point will be adjusted to your itinerary and wishes.
Is the Keukenhof flower garden part of this tour?
A visit to Keukenhof can be included in this tour. Some guests prefer to experience this world-famous flower park, while others choose to focus on smaller-scale locations in the countryside, where you meet the people behind the flowers and hear their stories. As all our tours are private and customizable, we’re happy to design the itinerary around your preferences. Please contact us to discuss the options.
I have particular interests and/or special wishes. Can this tour be customized?
Yes. Please contact us, and we will be happy to come up with a tailor-made tour for you.
Is the tour suitable for young children?
Yes, it is.
Is this tour suitable for people with reduced mobility?
Yes. If necessary, we can reduce the amount of walks.
