Dutch Bulb Fields & Amsterdam with Darren & Isobel

 Dutch Bulb Fields & Amsterdam 

We couldn't resist getting into the Dutch spirit and try out the traditional clogs....even if they were a little big! 

We made our way to The Zaanse Schans, a unique part of the Netherlands. It is a residential area in which the 18th and 19th centuries are brought to life- full of wooden houses, mills, barns and old thatched windmills from all over Holland. As we explored a bit more, we decided to stop for a drink outside in the glorious sunshine at The Cat- a colour mill which harnesses the power of the wind to grind a variety of natural dyes and pigments. This is the last working colour mill in the world. 

Keukenhof, is known as the Garden of Europe and this is one of the world’s largest flower gardens covering an area of around 32 hectares and approximately 7 million flower bulbs. As we walked through the beautiful gardens, we were delighted to experience the special scent that follows you as you stroll through the spectacular displays of flowers and inspirational gardens with a unique colour experience. 

Everyone bought themselves a souvenir of tulips and beautiful  orchids to remind them of our time spent here. 

Our day ended at Keukenhof by taking a ‘Whisper’ boat trip through the quiet typical Dutch landscape. The group enjoyed waving to the passengers passing by on the other boats and going under the low bridges which could be touched by hand.  

A fascinating time was spent at the cheese factory where we learned the process of cheese making using goats and sheep’s milk. We all got the opportunity to taste a selection of the homemade cheese and we all agreed they were delicious! Then we headed to the  Chocolate and Biscuit Factory. We were able to see the original machinery and learn how the chocolate and biscuits were made using the interactive games to help us understand some of the different stages and the changes that happened  throughout the years. 

Wow, what a sight to behold! We headed to Sassenheim to visit the carnival floats that were being decorated for the spring parade. As soon as we arrived, we could smell the gorgeous scent coming from the huge building. Once inside we were amazed at the sight of these large floats all hand decorated in fresh flowers by volunteers. There was every colour imaginable, and the intricate detail was outstanding. We saw some of the finishing touches being added ready for the big day.

An afternoon was spent in Noordwijk, a flower seaside resort with its rugged dunes and beautiful sandy beaches. We sat and had lunch on the pub decking overlooking the miles of sandy beach in the glorious sunshine. Breathing in the fresh sea air, we took a stroll along the promenade and came across a line of cars, mopeds and push bikes which were also decorated beautifully ready for tomorrow.

We couldn't resist a tasty treat of the cinnamon waffles that were being sold which seemed to be very popular. After our first bite, we could understand why! Delicious! 

The big day had come and we were so excited to be a part of  the famous Dutch Flower Parade. This year’s parade is extra special as it is celebrating its 75th year! This spring flower parade is unique as it’s the only parade in the world to be made from spring flowers like tulips and hyacinths. There was a real party atmosphere as all the local residents were setting up their tables and chairs outside their homes with snacks, glasses of wine and music playing. We felt so lucky to be a part of this amazing celebration. We took our place and waited for the parade to begin and wow what an incredible sight to see as the wonderful floats, marching bands, cars, mopeds all decorated to an amazing standard passed us by. The group waved excitedly to those taking part and they all waved back and we got some high 5’s, which made our day! It was an experience that we will never forget.