The Netherlands, widely considered as flat, is above all a low country that a persistent population partially rebuilt beneath sea level with the support of dykes. Despite this ‘victory’ over the sea, water is still omnipresent – from the lakes of Friesland to the canals of Amsterdam. The windmills used to drain the marshy zones are still scattered across the western part of the country, almost as witness to the battle between man and sea. If you cannot conceive of a voyage without highlands, rest assured, as The Netherlands has its share, with the richest dune region in Europe.

---

Zeeland - Rotterdam

Crossing over the Belgian border we discover a region in which sea and land intertwine, as we take the plunge into the “Delta”. This vast area that extends to the southwest of Rotterdam is situated at the mouth of the Rhine, the Maas and the Schelde rivers. The dykes, associated with a strong network of dunes, tell the tale of the genius and tenacity of a population that was determined to expand its lands by recapturing that from the sea. More than any other, it is the Schelde dam that best symbolises the colossal effort of this undertaking. On Neeltje Jans Island, at WaterLand Neeltje Jans, you will discover the entire scope of this reconstruction process through different phases of the battle between man and sea that began in the 13th century.

Used to drain the marshy zones taken from the sea, the windmills have secured an important role in the creation of the Dutch polders of the 14th century. Today there are still over 1,000 mills scattered across the country. Many appear to be sufficiently high to have caught the attention of the legendary Don Quixote and today certain associations have decided to protect these famous national monuments. One should be aware that in the 19th century there were nearly 9,000 windmills! Close to Rotterdam you will discover one of the best sites to admire these mills, the Kinderdijk, where a series of 19 still dominate over a marshy plain.

The Hague - Utrecht - Amsterdam

If The Hague, Utrecht and Amsterdam form a magnificent urban triptych, offering such architectural wealth and museums whose walls are covered with the immortal creations of Vermeer, Rembrandt and Van Gogh, the true masterpieces of the region are ephemeral.

At the end of April this entire region is transformed into vast multicoloured fields of flowers. Tourists from the four corners of the globe arrive to observe this fascinating living scene; however, it is the bulbs that are sold the world over that are at the heart of the economy. Just after the flowering period, the stems are cut in order to fortify the bulbs. Thus, this colourful show is unfortunately visible just a few days per year, making it even more appreciated.

---

Wadden Islands - Frisian Lakes

As we arrive on the northern coast of the country, water again takes precedence over land to compose the group of islands known as Wadden. This string of isles, separated from the coast by the Wadden Sea, is composed of vast white sandy beaches, high dunes and conifer forests. This region is highly populated in the summer, but it is during the spring and autumn months that one benefits the most from these charming islands. Even more prominent than in other parts of the country, they are covered with cycling trails. Ameland Island alone has over 100km of paths.

Back of land, we cross the impressive northern dyke in order to return to the Frisian lakes. Such a multitude of lakes of varying sizes are to be discovered here, linked together by canals and punctuated by lush green countryside. When the weather is nice these lakes welcome sailing boats and wind surfers, becoming a vast recreational site, but also a spot in which to relax. When the winters are sufficiently cold, the water in the canals will freeze over, becoming a giant skating rink on which the “11-city circuit” is held. This event sparks the interest of the entire country. Let us hope that the global warming will not spoil this enjoyable tradition that began in the 18th century.

---

Drenthe - Twente - Arnhem

As we head south towards the German border the landscape now changes ever so slightly . We still see canals and rivers, but less bodies of water and the flat countryside becomes slightly hilly. The forest alternates with a countryside scattered with elegant old farms. The pretty Drenthe region harbours megalithic monuments – the Hunebedden. Taking the route that links Emmen to Noordlaren, we discover several of these prehistoric funerary sites with heights of 7-25 metres.

We shall now head into the Twente region. Specialized in the textile industry, this region offers a pastoral and verdant aspect, with pastures and forests spread out along the bodies of water. Numerous circuits enable you to discover this area, more discreet than its western neighbours perhaps, but nonetheless boasting a multitude of treasures.

The city of Arnhem was at the heart of one of the most brutal battles for the liberation of the country in 1944. The bridge that could not be taken by the allied forces before the arrival of the reinforcements became famous following General Browning’s expression “…a bridge too far”. Arnhem is also known for its open-air Dutch museum, reconstructing the architecture and life of former days, with over 80 authentic farms, mills, a school, etc. This site allows you to delve into the rural history of The Netherlands.

The Netherlands - Practical Guide:

Customs formalities: Valid identity papers are required for entry into The Netherlands for EU nationals and Swiss citizens. Domestic animals must be tattooed or equipped with a chip; they must be provided with a valid European passport.