The Netherlands, or Holland as it is often referred, is a small country in Europe, bordered by Germany and Belgium, and boasting some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. With its wide-open flat fields, sprinkled with bright colorful flowers, its picturesque canals, and tranquil Dutch windmills, the Netherlands’s landscape is truly something to behold. From the pastures of Gelderland and the dunes of Zeeland to the islands in the north and the bustling cities in the south, each area offers a unique and captivating setting.
One of the most iconic Dutch landscapes is that of the tulip fields in the Westland district. Predominantly situated in the provinces of North Holland and South Holland, the fields here blossom colorful blooms throughout the warmer months of the year. The sight of the red, orange, yellow, and purple tulips bobbing gently in the wind is truly a sight to behold, making this location a popular tourist spot, especially during the annual “Tulip Festival.”
The Dutch coastline is also renowned for its unique landscapes. Running along the North Sea, the region is filled with beautiful sandy beaches and dunes, as well as vibrant coastal towns where the historic canals are lined with the colorful homes of local fishermen. Zeeland, in particular, is a popular tourist destination known for its tranquil beaches and unrivalled sunsets.
Gelderland: A Region of Vast Meadows and Ancient Waterways
The eastern province of Gelderland is well known for its vast and fertile meadows, which are interspersed with ancient canals and woodland. The Meadows of Guelders, as they are known, stretch out over much of the Rhine-Meuse Delta, extending along the Lower Rhine region, offering some of the most expansive views in the Netherlands. Within the meadows, visitors can take in the abundant natural beauty, with white cows, geese, and sheep grazing among the field of wildflowers.
The Waterlands: A Unique Landscape of Rivers and Islands
In the north is The Waterlands, an area found within the provinces of South Holland, North Holland, and Utrecht. In this region, intricate waterways meander around the islands of Marken, Volendam, and Edam, making this part of the country a picturesque yet vibrant landscape. With its historic fishing towns, museums, and vibrant city life, this area of the Netherlands is a must-see destination.
The Cascades of the Lek River: An Unexpected Treasure in The Netherlands
Tucked away in the heart of The Netherlands is the Lek River, a tributary of the Rhine. Though it appears to be a relatively ordinary river, it is far from that – it is an unexpected treasure. Over the centuries, the waters of the Lek have created a unique landscape featuring small waterfalls, gentle streams, and cascades of rapids. Boasting some of the most scenic views of the country, this area is undoubtedly a must-see for all nature lovers.
Urban Landscapes: The Bustling yet Cosmopolitan Cities of Holland
Though not as synonymous with sprawling landscapes as the rural countryside, Holland is home to some of Europe’s most captivating cities. The capital of Amsterdam is a bustling metropolis, filled with narrow canals, hundreds of gabled buildings and tight streets, making it a truly unique site. Rotterdam, on the other hand, is an industrial yet lively port city dotted with a multitude of skyscrapers, modern buildings, and public parks.
The cities and towns of the Netherlands boast a cosmopolitan flair, yet they still exude an air of old-world charm. A walk down any street reveals a plethora of architectural styles, from gabled houses, to cathedral spires, to post-war industrial architecture, filling the streets with a historical presence that is impossible to ignore.
Holland: A Landscape Unlike Any Other
From the rolling meadows of Gelderland, to the tranquil windmills of the Waterlands, to the cascades of the Lek river, and the bustling cities of the nation’s capital, Holland truly has something to offer all types of travelers. Every corner of the country teems with incredible landscapes, making it impossible to truly experience them all in one vacation. Despite it’s small size, the Netherlands is a country with huge heart, making it an unforgettable destination for all kinds of travelers.