Our Holland Holiday

When Ian and I magically got five days off together at the beginning of April, we knew it was time to start searching for a getaway (or as the Europeans say, "going on holiday"). When we discovered the tulips were blooming earlier than normal this year in The Netherlands, it was a no brainer where we were headed.

I can't think of a better way to start the Spring season than visiting the flower fields of the Dutch countryside! It's been on my bucket list for years. 

Also, despite a last minute invitation, both our mothers were able to join us for our three day trip! And can you believe this- my mom had an expired passport that was renewed in two business days?! Talk about last minute logistics working out in our favor! 

Me and the mamas before our flight to Amsterdam

DAY 1 - We arrived super early. 6am early. Before-the-car-rental-desk-opened early. We grabbed coffee and shook off the long flight! Once we hit the road, we drove an hour an half northeast, arriving in Giethoorn. I'd read about this tiny little town in a traveler's blog. It's such a fascinating place because there are no roads; all cars must remain outside the village. Visitors and locals get around this idyllic setting via foot or boat. Four miles of canals, arched wooden bridges, and thatched-roof cottages give this town fairytale status. 

Because we showed up so early, it felt like we had the town to ourselves. We wandered around in peaceful quietness, soaking up the unique scenes. Eventually, we started to hear kids playing at the local school. We watched the mail woman on her bike deliver letters. We saw a few shops open their doors for business. 

I'd love to return during the summer months, when the tourists take over and the weather is bit friendlier (it was intermittent rain and very windy during our quick visit). I'd love to see more boats floating down the canals. But if we don't return, I definitely will never forget this beautiful, tranquil morning. 

Leaving Giethoorn, we drove a few more hours around the northeast corner of the country. We saw lots of baby lambs in the fields. We passed lots of locals riding their bikes. We pretty much had our eyes glued to the windows, searching for tulip fields, cute cottages, and old windmills. 

Later in the day, we visited another noteworthy town- Haarlem.  It's not nearly as big as Amsterdam, but it's young, hip, and busy. The sunshine finally stayed out, and we were able to stroll the cobblestone streets. We found a perfect little place for a tapas style dinner. Haarlem hit the spot; a lovely place to end our long day. 

  

DAY 2 - My favorite day. The day we ventured into the famous Keukenhof Gardens. We arrived as the gates opened, beating the crowd and taking uninterrupted photos for the first few hours of the morning. Between the sights and the smells, I was on sensory overload. I wanted to take a picture of every beautiful flower. And there were millions of flowers. It was overwhelming, breathtaking, and inspiring. It was just a huge garden, taking us over five hours to see the grounds. As you might imagine, after leaving this gorgeous place, I feel quite encouraged to begin gardening. 

For the second part of our day, we rented bikes and peddled almost 8 miles around the outskirts of Kuekenhof. Seeing the farmer's fields was definitely fun and invigorating. We felt like quintessential Hollanders. 

Follow Me Through Keukenhof....

    

Happy Spring from Holland !!!