We planned our trip ending in the Netherlands so that we might get to see the fields of tulips in the spring. We are in luck. Although spring was a bit later than usual here, and the weather is chilly, the tulips are in bloom. We rented e-bikes so we could get an “up close” experience. With the help of Hans, the bike company owner, we got detailed instructions on how to best get to the fields and then the gardens. We bundled in layers and layers and headed out on the bus to Amsterdam. The fields near the gardens are a bit of a ways so Hans suggested we do the first stage towards Harlem on the train. Bikes are such an integral part of transportation here, trains have specially marked cars where they will accommodate you and your bike.
From the train we headed out through the village into the country and before long started seeing fields and field of tulips. The wind was chilly but we were dressed warmly and we were excited.
After much riding and much exploring tulip fields and farms we headed toward Keukenof Gardens – the most beautiful gardens I have ever seen. It was a bit of a ride through some villages and country roads but well worth the trip. We locked up our bikes in the bike “parking lot”, stopped for some hot chocolate to warm us up and toured for 3 amazing hours.
It was a long day but a great one. By the time we got the bikes back to the rental, ourselves to Amsterdam by train and to Monnickendam by bus it was near 10pm and dark. We could feel every one of our “years old”, but we’d do it again in a heartbeat!!
Tea and stroop waffles. The perfect end to a perfect day.