It feels like just yesterday I was exploring the charming towns and vibrant cities of the Netherlands, a journey that now, a month later, still vividly plays in my mind. My adventure began in the historical city of Arnhem, leading me through the medieval streets of Amersfoort, the cheesy delights of Gouda, the artistic canals of Delft, and finally, the serene beauty of Veere. Time truly does fly when you’re immersed in such rich experiences, and I’m thrilled to finally share the highlights of this unforgettable Dutch escapade.
One of the most striking aspects of the Netherlands, especially coming from the warm climate of Florida, was the abundance of lush greenery and ancient forests. My soul delighted in the pervasive sense of “forest bathing” – long, invigorating walks surrounded by nature that seemed to rejuvenate my entire body. Beyond the natural beauty, I was profoundly inspired by the incredibly active lifestyle embraced by people of all ages across the country. And, of course, no Dutch journey would be complete without indulging in copious amounts of delicious local cheese and savory pancakes, which were happily incorporated into our daily routine! 🙂
This grand European tour was a full family affair, involving my husband, my parents, my brother, my sister, my brother-in-law, and my two energetic nephews. Our journey kicked off last month when we were invited to a wedding in beautiful Belgium. Recognizing the significant distance for a one-off event, we wisely decided to extend our travels, incorporating extensive sightseeing both before and after the matrimonial celebrations.
Our transatlantic flight landed us in Amsterdam, the perfect gateway to our Dutch and Belgian explorations, which spanned an exhilarating week. Following the wedding in Belgium, we then embarked on another exciting leg of our adventure, spending a delightful week immersing ourselves in the Nordic charm of Stockholm, Sweden. This multi-country itinerary allowed us to experience a diverse tapestry of European cultures and landscapes.
Arnhem: Nature, Art, and an Active Lifestyle
Our Dutch exploration commenced with a tranquil stay at Hotel Groot Warnsborn, an exquisite estate nestled deep within a sprawling forest, just outside the bustling town of Arnhem. The natural beauty here was simply breathtaking, offering an unparalleled sense of peace. With endless trails winding through ancient trees, one could easily spend hours exploring without seeing the same path twice. It was the quintessential setting for unwinding and connecting with nature.
Adding to the charm, the hotel’s breakfast was nothing short of extraordinary. Each morning, we were treated to an array of freshly baked bread, an assortment of local fruits, artisanal honey, homemade jams, creamy yogurts, and a selection of fine Dutch cheeses. The warm, comforting aroma of fresh eggs and crispy bacon further elevated the experience, truly making it a breakfast paradise. I still recall the perfectly ripe, deep red plum on my plate – undoubtedly one of the best I’ve ever tasted.
What truly set Hotel Groot Warnsborn and its surroundings apart was the sheer abundance of outdoor activities available. From a life-sized chess board that captivated my nephews to an assortment of children’s cars and toys, there was always something to engage the family. However, the real draw for us was the extensive network of forest trails, spanning miles and miles, perfect for leisurely walks or invigorating bike rides. We spent countless hours traversing these grounds, soaking in the fresh, clean air and the serene sounds of nature. My nephews, in particular, reveled in the freedom and space, making it an ideal family-friendly destination.
Just look at how dwarfed I am by the majestic trees in this forest! I can practically still smell the crisp, earthy scent of the fresh air – a stark contrast to my daily life in Florida. It was a wonderful reminder of the restorative power of nature.
On a lighter note, keep an eye out for my sister’s son, Hugo, and his famously amusing “stink-eye” in some of our photos! Haha.
Arnhem proved to be an exceptionally family-friendly locale, but I was particularly struck by the vibrant activity levels of everyone in the area. As I mentioned earlier, witnessing so many people of all ages – from toddlers to the elderly – walking, hiking, and cycling with such enthusiasm was incredibly inspiring. Frankly, in all my travels, I’ve never encountered a population quite so active, especially among the older generations. This observation served as a profound wake-up call, emphasizing the importance of incorporating more consistent activity into my own routine, despite my current efforts to exercise and walk.
It felt as though literally everyone was either walking or cycling. I cannot overstate the sheer number of people we saw biking every single day – it was a constant, invigorating stream of movement. This pervasive commitment to an active lifestyle prompted me to ponder the stark differences compared to my home in the USA. While Florida can be hot, I believe the core issue lies in the urban planning of American cities and towns. Our environments often lack the pedestrian and cyclist-friendly infrastructure found in the Netherlands, with everything being so vast and spread out. My observations, without intending to offend, led me to conclude that this active lifestyle significantly contributes to the remarkable physical condition of older individuals in the Netherlands compared to their counterparts in the United States. While this was a bit of a tangent, it was truly a profound observation that resonated with me during our time in Arnhem.
One of the primary motivations for choosing to stay in the Arnhem region was to visit the renowned Kröller-MĂĽller Museum. This museum has been a long-standing item on my father’s bucket list, and I was particularly excited about its extensive collection of Van Gogh masterpieces. As Van Gogh is my absolute favorite painter, I found myself utterly mesmerized by the vibrant colors and intricate textures of his works. Each brushstroke told a story, drawing me deeper into his artistic world.
It’s simply impossible not to feel a surge of joy and wonder when gazing upon such a spectrum of color! It was genuinely difficult to tear my eyes away from some of his paintings. If you ever find yourself in the Arnhem area, I cannot recommend the Kröller-MĂĽller Museum highly enough – it’s an absolute must-see for art lovers.
After our enriching museum visit, our appetites were well and truly stimulated. We sought out a place for lunch and stumbled upon the delightful EetcafĂ© De 3-Ster. This charming cafe boasted super cute outdoor seating adorned with large, comfy pillows and was staffed by an incredibly friendly individual. We enjoyed truly delicious sandwiches, but the real highlight for me was indulging in authentic Dutch bacon pancakes. While they weren’t explicitly on the menu, the staff happily prepared them for us, knowing my fondness for this traditional dish. It was a perfect, satisfying meal.
Amersfoort: Medieval Charm and Sweet Delights
Our next destination was a delightful day trip to Amersfoort, a city I discovered after seeing a captivating photograph of one of its waterfront entrances and subsequently researching its well-preserved medieval town center. Our decision to visit proved to be an excellent one, as Amersfoort did not disappoint. The city is gracefully enveloped by several canals, their banks lined with picturesque homes and shaded by romantic, ancient trees. It truly possesses an undeniably dreamy atmosphere, feeling like a scene plucked from a fairy tale.
Venturing into the heart of Amersfoort, we were greeted by charming cobblestone streets, an array of quaint shops, and historic buildings adorned with beautiful architectural details that invited us to simply soak in their beauty. We spent several hours leisurely wandering, capturing countless photos, and browsing through the unique boutiques until our stomachs signaled it was time for a much-needed coffee and snack break.
Craving something sweet alongside our coffee, we decided to visit Coffee Corazon – a truly wonderful decision! Given that my sister, brother, father, and I all have nut allergies, we made the strategic choice to order one of every nut-free dessert they offered. This allowed us to create our own tasting platter and sample a bit of everything without worry. We ended up with generous slices of homemade cheesecake, rich chocolate cake, and a comforting Dutch apple pie. Every single bite was absolutely divine, making it a perfect respite in our exploration of Amersfoort.
With our sweet cravings satisfied, we took one final stroll through Amersfoort, revisiting some of its iconic sites to capture a few more memorable photographs, before heading off to our next exciting stop on this incredible Dutch journey.
(Ah, there’s that famous stink-eye again!)
Het Loo Palace: The Dutch Versailles
Our cultural immersion continued with a half-day visit to the magnificent Paleis Het Loo. Constructed in the 17th century, this palace offers a distinct experience compared to many other European castles and palaces I’ve had the pleasure of visiting. From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted by a grand stable complex, where peacocks roam freely on the lush grass, setting a majestic tone. A long, stately tree-lined path then guides you towards the palace itself.
The architecture of Het Loo Palace is characterized by its neatness and orderly symmetry. While beautiful in its own right, its exterior is perhaps less overtly extravagant than, say, the opulent castles of France. However, step inside, and you’ll discover interiors that are every bit as lavish and historically rich, reflecting centuries of royal Dutch grandeur.
Yet, for me, the most captivating aspect of Het Loo Palace was undoubtedly the breathtaking gardens located behind the main building. During my pre-visit research, these gardens were frequently lauded as the “Versailles of Holland,” renowned for their exquisite Baroque design. I arrived without specific expectations, but I was utterly captivated by the intricate layers of vibrant flowers, diverse plant life, and magnificent fountains. The sheer scale and meticulous design were truly awe-inspiring, creating a living masterpiece that unfolded with every step.
The gardens would make for an absolutely perfect spot for a leisurely picnic, offering plenty of fresh air and stunning vistas. We thoroughly enjoyed our afternoon here, spending time feeding the fish in one of the grand fountains, admiring the unique and diverse flower species, and simply exploring every hidden corner of this botanical marvel.
Gouda: Cheese, Chocolate, and Quaint Streets
Our next highly anticipated stop was none other than Gouda, where our primary mission was, quite literally, to get some Gouda in Gouda! And we certainly succeeded, purchasing a delightful array of cheeses from a wonderfully quaint shop that we’ve been savoring ever since. One of the best parts about the cheese shops here is the generous opportunity to taste almost all their offerings. There’s an endless variety of Gouda types and flavors, each incredibly fresh and bursting with authentic taste.
As a city, Gouda felt a bit more commercialized than I had initially expected, particularly in its main square. However, it still boasted numerous incredibly beautiful areas and a plethora of engaging shops, especially once we ventured beyond the most crowded spots.
To truly experience the authentic essence of Gouda and escape the bustling crowds, we consciously opted to explore the smaller side streets. This decision proved invaluable, as these quieter lanes revealed so many charming buildings and intricate details to admire. Moreover, we discovered that the boutiques and local stores tucked away on these side streets often offered more unique and artisanal goods than those in the bustling town center.
One of my absolute favorite experiences in Gouda was an unplanned visit to a chocolate shop named PUUR chocolate. I was initially drawn in by its inviting storefront, but the moment I stepped inside, the intoxicating aroma of freshly made chocolate was almost too overwhelming – in the best possible way! I immediately gathered my family, and together, we began the delightful task of selecting which exquisite chocolates we wanted to purchase. As we browsed, the incredibly passionate owner started offering us generous samples of his creations. We had the pleasure of tasting chocolate in its purest form, sampling various ganaches he was developing and testing, and, of course, indulging in his most popular, perfected chocolates.
It was such a fun and incredibly delicious experience! Just look at my face in that photo – the owner had just told us about his passion fruit chocolate, and I could barely contain my excitement! This truly was the best chocolate I tasted throughout my entire trip, and without a doubt, one of the finest I’ve ever had in my life. If you ever find yourself in Gouda, a visit to PUUR chocolate is an absolute must-try experience!
Delft: Historic Pottery and Youthful Vibrancy
Our final night in the Netherlands was spent in the enchanting city of Delft, a place globally renowned for its distinctive blue and white pottery, famously known as Delftware. Naturally, our visit included a trip to the official Delft museum and workshop, where we not only admired the intricate artistry of the pottery but also indulged in acquiring some beautiful pieces to bring home. It was hard to resist the allure of these timeless Dutch treasures! haha.
I genuinely fell in love with Delft. The city boasts a wealth of charming buildings, picturesque canals, and inviting open squares brimming with outdoor seating and vibrant al fresco restaurants. What truly amplified its appeal was its incredibly youthful and dynamic vibe. I believe Delft is home to at least one, if not two, universities, and students were visibly present everywhere, adding to the city’s lively energy.
On the particular night we were there, it seemed as though some kind of lively student recruitment or celebratory event was underway. While I know fraternities and sororities as we know them in the US don’t exist in Europe, it appeared they have similar spirited events between different departments or schools within a university. Regardless of the exact nature, Delft was alive with activity: numerous boat parties featuring live bands on large barges filled the canals, and countless college students, identifiable by their matching t-shirts, congregated throughout the city. The atmosphere was incredibly infectious and looked like immense fun. It honestly made me reflect and wish I had considered studying abroad in such a vibrant place many years ago! Haha.
After soaking in the sights and sounds, we settled down for a delicious dinner at one of the inviting outdoor cafes. While the name of the establishment escapes me now, I distinctly remember savoring a hearty, traditional Dutch beef stew, rich in flavor and wonderfully comforting. For dessert, we were treated to a charming presentation of fruit and ice cream served whimsically inside a wooden Dutch shoe – a truly memorable culinary ending to our time in Delft.
Veere: A Coastal Hidden Gem
Our journey through the Netherlands culminated in a truly magical discovery: the picturesque village of Veere. We visited Veere as a captivating stop on our drive towards Belgium, and I must unequivocally state that of all the towns and cities we experienced in the Netherlands, this was, without a doubt, the most exquisite hidden gem. The drive itself was breathtaking, tracing along a beautiful coastline, building anticipation for what lay ahead. We arrived with a sense of wonder, armed only with numerous recommendations urging us not to miss this charming village. And I am so incredibly glad we heeded those tips, because, truly, WOW.
Stepping into Veere felt like traveling back in time, as if history itself had paused to preserve this beautiful, magical, and historic small village. Our initial stroll into town immediately brought us face to face with a man expertly crafting homemade stroopwafels. The sweet, caramel-infused aroma was simply irresistible; I honestly don’t believe anyone could walk past without stopping to indulge. For those unfamiliar, a stroopwafel is a delightful Dutch treat consisting of two thin, crispy waffle wafers with a luscious caramel syrup filling sandwiched in between. We sampled several stroopwafels throughout our trip, but these freshly made ones in Veere were, hands down, the absolute best.
Surrounded by inviting ice cream parlors, quaint candy shops, and the serene beauty of boats gently bobbing on the water, everyone in Veere seemed utterly content and relaxed. We wandered through the village, thoroughly soaking in its tranquil charm and wishing we had booked a hotel there to extend our stay. The desire to spend more time in this idyllic setting was palpable. Eventually, we paused for a memorable lunch at an outdoor cafe called ‘T Waepen of Veere, and the food was simply divine.
I savored some truly amazing cheese croquettes, a classic Dutch delicacy, while my brother and father both opted for a smoked salmon sandwich. They both enthusiastically declared it the best smoked salmon they had ever tasted – a high compliment indeed! Veere truly was a breath of fresh air; a clean, quaint, and utterly beautiful village nestled on an island, perfectly encapsulating the enchanting magic of the Netherlands.
Alright, now that I’ve made myself incredibly hungry for more Dutch food and find myself deeply missing the serene beauty of Veere, I’ll bring this travelogue to a close. Our Dutch adventure was a captivating blend of vibrant cities, peaceful forests, artistic masterpieces, and culinary delights, leaving us with a treasure trove of unforgettable memories.
Stay tuned for upcoming posts detailing our fascinating experiences in Belgium and our extended adventures (perhaps one or two posts!) exploring the wonders of Sweden. Until then, have a wonderful weekend filled with your own inspiring journeys!