Flower Fields Forever

A road trip in The Netherlands

Whilst many people only associate tulips with The Netherlands, the country actually cultivates and exports many other kinds of flower, including daffodils, hyacinths and crocuses. The country’s horticultural experts also breed and introduce hundreds of new varieties of flowers every year. Thanks to improved cultivation technology, it is now possible to grow many species of plants which are not normally native to the region.

Although the flowers often begin to bloom in mid-March it can depend on the weather in the region, and visitors who come at this time of year may be left disappointed if the winter has been a harsh one. During April, the flowers should be in their prime regardless of the weather, and the fields should be a patchwork of colour.




The best tulip fields are in the North of Holland, around 30 minutes drive from Amsterdam, in an area known as the "Bollenstreek" (Dutch for "bulb district"). Many fields are located behind the North Sea dunes and are therefore in a very scenic location. If you are travelling by car or bike, ask at a local tourist information point for advice on cycling or driving routes in the local area which will allow you to see the vast fields. Walking routes are also available around some of the smaller flower field areas.

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