Every spring, the Bulb Region transforms into a colorful spectacle of vast fields of flowers. Although tulips seem quite ordinary to many Dutch people, this flower paradise attracts more than a million visitors from all over the world every year. No wonder, because the landscape is truly breathtaking! Are you looking for the most beautiful tulip fields, fun cycling and hiking routes or unique hotspots? In this article we share everything you need to know for an unforgettable visit to the Bulb Region.
Where is the Bulb Region located?
The Bulb Region, also known as the Dune and Bulb Region, is located in the western part of the Netherlands and spans several villages and towns. The region includes Lisse, Hillegom, Voorhout, Sassenheim, Katwijk, Noordwijk and De Zilk, among others. Lisse and Hillegom in particular are known as the ultimate bulb villages, where you will find endless fields full of tulips, hyacinths, crocuses and daffodils. This unique area is located in the middle of the Randstad, making it perfectly accessible for a day trip or weekend getaway.
The best period to visit the Bulb Region
Want to see the Bulb Region at its most beautiful? Then timing is crucial! The flowering of the flowers depends on the weather, but on average you can assume the following flowering periods:
Crocuses: late February - early March
Daffodils and hyacinths: mid-March - mid-April
Tulips: early April - early May
Keukenhof: late March - mid-May
For the most current flowering status, you can an overview map of the Bulb Region consulting. From March through early May, this map is updated every week with photos of the bulb fields. So you know exactly where to find the most beautiful fields!
The most beautiful places to visit in the Bulb Region
The Bulb Region is an insanely beautiful area to visit, especially when everything is in bloom. In that respect, no matter where you are, you are guaranteed to feast your eyes and be amazed by the beauty. But there are certainly some beautiful places in the Bulb Region that you should not miss:
Keukenhof - World-famous flower park with impressive floral exhibitions.
The Tulpery - An attractive picking garden and show garden with workshops and tours.
The Tulip Barn - Instagrammable location with colorful tulip fields and fun photo spots.
Annemieke's Picking Garden - Picking your own flowers among the fields, a unique experience!
Tulip Store Showground - View hundreds of tulip varieties in one place.
Do's & don'ts when visiting the bulb fields
To ensure that everyone can continue to enjoy the beauty of flowers, it is important to be respectful of nature:
Enjoy the flowers, but stay on the paths.
Ask permission from the farmer if you want to enter a field.
Do not just walk among the tulips, this can damage the crops.
Do not pick flowers without permission.
Want to experience the flowers up close? Then visit one of the picking gardens mentioned above where you can admire and take home beautiful tulips without causing any damage!
Cycling and hiking routes through the Bulb Region
The Bulb Region lends itself perfectly to active exploration by bicycle or on foot. With more than a million visitors in a short period of time, cycling is the ideal means of transportation to avoid traffic jams and crowds. Some recommended routes:
Tip: Want to be sure of an informative and unique experience? Then book a tour with a local guide through Bulb region becomes Flower region!
Bicycle routes
Flower route (35 km) - The classic route along the most beautiful bulb fields.
Keukenhof Cycle Route (5-25 km) - Combine Keukenhof with beautiful tulip fields.
Hollandse Kust & Duinroute (34.5 km) - Combine tulip fields with dunes and beach.
Ferry route (25 km) - A varied route with several crossings.
Hiking trails
Lisse walking route (8 km) - A short but beautiful route through the heart of the Bulb Region.
Walking route De Zilk & Hillegom (11 km) - Perfect for those who want to admire the bulb fields up close.
Atlantic Wall Trail (3.6 km) - Combine nature with history.
Keukenhof hiking trail (20 km) - A long walk for the true nature lover.
Spend the night among the bulb fields
Do you want to fully enjoy the Bulb Region? Then stay overnight in one of the atmospheric accommodations amidst the flowers! Highly recommended is B&B The Green Bulb Barn in Hillegom, a charming and welcoming place where you wake up directly among the tulips. A unique experience you won't soon forget!
Discover more of the Netherlands
The Bulb Region is just one of the many beautiful regions of the Netherlands. From vast natural areas to bustling cities, there is always something new to discover. Where will your next adventure begin? Get inspired by one of the following articles:
