From Amsterdam: Holland Flower and Windmill Tour – summer ed

If you’re craving a break from the hustle of Amsterdam, this Holland Flower and Windmill Tour offers a captivating glimpse into the Netherlands’ most iconic sights—vivid summer blooms and classic windmills. This full-day trip is designed for travelers who appreciate authentic, picturesque experiences, with highlights including a visit to a family-owned flower farm and a relaxing boat cruise past working windmills.

What really stands out is the opportunity to wander through thousands of blooming flowers in vibrant fields, along with an insightful behind-the-scenes look at a real Dutch flower farm. The one-hour windmill cruise on the Kagerplassen adds a peaceful, scenic touch, giving you a fresh perspective of the landscape. That said, one drawback noted by some reviewers is the lack of a dedicated guide during the tour, which can make it feel less informative if you’re eager to learn the stories behind what you see.

This tour suits those who love nature, photography, and authentic Dutch culture. It’s perfect for visitors seeking a balanced mix of beautiful scenery, local insight, and leisurely exploration—all at a reasonable price.

Key Points

• Beautiful floral displays: Witness thousands of summer flowers, particularly dahlias, in stunning garden and field settings.
• Authentic farm visit: Meet the owners of De Tulperij and get a behind-the-scenes look at flower planting and farming practices.
• Unique photo opportunities: The flower fields offer some of the best spots in the region for photos, with the only permitted area for selfies among the flowers.
• Scenic boat cruise: Enjoy a 60-minute cruise past 18 working windmills, providing insight into Dutch water management.
• Luxurious transportation: Travel comfortably on a luxury coach with good photo stops and a well-organized schedule.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund, and reserve now with the option to pay later for added flexibility.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transport

The tour departs from This is Holland, which provides a comfortable waiting room, coffee bar, and toilets—making the start of your day hassle-free. The transportation is via a luxury coach, which is ideal for a day trip, ensuring a smooth ride through the Dutch countryside. The coach’s large windows promise excellent opportunities for photos en route, setting the tone for what’s ahead.

The Flower Farm: Daan and Anja’s De Tulperij

One of the tour’s main attractions is the visit to Daan and Anja’s family-owned flower farm, De Tulperij. Daan, a passionate dahlia farmer, will greet you and guide you through his fields, explaining how he plants bulbs and nurtures his vibrant blooms. Expect a walk through the breathtaking dahlia gardens, which hold thousands of these stunning flowers.

A highlight from reviews is the behind-the-scenes access—not just a quick glance, but a walk through the flower fields, giving you an authentic feel of Dutch flower farming. You’ll also get a chance to stroll through the CNB summer flower garden, the only spot within the flower region where photography is permitted among the flowers, making it a perfect place to snap memorable photos.

Tasting and Relaxation

After exploring the gardens, you’re treated to Anja’s homemade apple pie paired with fresh coffee, which adds a cozy, personal touch. This small but meaningful gesture emphasizes the tour’s emphasis on local, authentic experiences. It’s a simple pleasure but one that leaves a lasting impression, especially for those who appreciate genuine hospitality.

Windmill Cruise at Warmond

Next, the tour takes you to the windmill village of Warmond. Here, you’ll hop onto a boat for the 60-minute cruise across the Kagerplassen. This is a highlight for many—a peaceful ride with views of 18 working windmills, actively used to pump out excess water and prevent flooding in this low-lying land.

The boat cruise offers a different perspective of Holland’s landscape, with the chance to see how these historic mills continue to play a vital role in land management. Several reviews mention the “beautiful views” and the value of seeing the windmills in action, which adds both educational and scenic value.

Additional Details

The entire experience is designed to give you a balanced view of Holland’s natural beauty and farming traditions. The tour lasts about one day, with start times varying depending on the day, so checking availability is advised. The cost is $79 per person, which many feel is a fair price given the combination of activities, including the farm visit, boat cruise, and transportation.

What’s Not Included and Optional Extras

While the tour includes most activities, it does not include the option to pick your own bouquet of flowers—an activity some may find appealing if they want a personalized floral souvenir. However, this can be arranged on-site for an extra fee.

Authentic Feedback and Practical Insights

One review pointed out a minor downside: “There was no guide with us; it was only a driver who took us to the places, so we didn’t know what we were visiting.” This highlights that the tour is primarily transportation-focused, with limited guided commentary. If you’re someone who prefers detailed storytelling, bringing a guidebook or app for additional context might enhance your experience.

On the positive side, travelers appreciated the “great photo opportunities” and the “stunning views” of the flower fields and windmills. The personal interaction with Daan and Anja and the chance to see real Dutch farming practices add a layer of authenticity that larger, more commercial tours might lack.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for visitors who want a relaxed, scenic day outside the city, with a focus on Dutch rural beauty and agriculture. It’s ideal for photography enthusiasts, flower lovers, and those curious about traditional farming. It also suits travelers who prefer a value-packed experience without the need for extensive guided commentary**, as it leans more towards a self-guided vibe with a knowledgeable farm owner.

However, if you’re seeking a highly guided, educational narration or a tour with a smaller group or personalized attention, you might find this a bit lacking. It’s more about enjoying the sights at your own pace and taking in the landscape.

The Sum Up

This Holland Flower and Windmill Tour strikes a solid balance between scenic beauty, cultural authenticity, and leisurely exploration. For around $79, you’re getting a comprehensive day that combines the best of Holland’s floral landscapes with its iconic windmills—delivering memorable sights and personal touches like homemade apple pie.

It’s especially well-suited for photographers, flower enthusiasts, and those wanting a genuine taste of Dutch countryside. While the lack of a dedicated guide might be a downside for some, the opportunity to walk through fields, meet local farmers, and cruise past working windmills makes this a worthwhile experience for most.

If you’re after a relaxed, authentic, and scenic day trip from Amsterdam, this tour will leave you with beautiful photos and new appreciation for Holland’s natural and agricultural heritage.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes transportation by a luxury coach, starting from “This is Holland,” with comfortable amenities and good photo opportunities en route.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about one day, with the exact starting times varying depending on availability.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

What languages are offered during the tour?
The tour host or greeter speaks English, German, and Dutch, making it accessible for a diverse group of travelers.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the tour is transparent about costs, with no hidden fees. The only extra might be on-site activities such as bouquet picking if you choose to participate.

Can I take my own photos in the flower fields?
Yes, you can take photos in the designated flower field area, which is the only spot where photography is officially permitted.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed pace and scenic nature make it a good option for families, especially those interested in flowers and windmills.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the farm and fields. Check the weather forecast, as outdoor activities depend on the weather conditions.

This tour offers a lovely blend of Holland’s floral beauty and historic windmills—all at a reasonable price—making it a great choice for those seeking an authentic countryside break from Amsterdam.