Looking for the perfect destination for a versatile summer vacation at home? North Holland has it all: from vast beaches to historic cities and green nature reserves. Whether you want to sunbathe, swim or walk through the dunes: the North Holland coast offers plenty of opportunities.

Enjoy Sun and Sea on the North Sea Coast
The beaches of North Holland are among the most beautiful in the Netherlands. As soon as the sun breaks through, locals and tourists alike flock to the coast. And with good reason:

Cycling and hiking through the most beautiful natural areas
Lovers of nature and outdoor activities are in for a treat in North Holland. Popular natural areas for cyclists and hikers include:

City breaks with culture and character
A city break in North Holland is perfect to combine with beach or nature. Visit charming cities such as:

• Sailing in Medemblik or Muiden
• Suppen or canoe on calm inland waters
• Visiting the historic Muiderslot (link) on a boat tour

An ideal destination for an active day on or near the water.

Events, festivals and summer atmosphere
Summer in North Holland is also the season of vibrant festivals and local events. Some highlights include:

• Mysteryland Festival (link)near Hoofddorp
• Kunstlijn Haarlem – visit studios and exhibitions
• Summer markets, food truck festivals and fairs (link) in villages and towns throughout the province

Plan your summer vacation in North Holland with Alys.nl
Whether you choose a weekend getaway or a longer summer vacation, North Holland offers a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, nature and culture. On Alys.nl you will find inspiration, tips and accommodations to plan your trip to perfection.

The tulip is perhaps Holland’s most iconic flower. Every spring, endless fields in North Holland turn brilliant shades of red, yellow, pink and purple. But how did the tulip end up here, and what tulip- and flower-related activities can you experience in spring in North Holland? In this blog, we take you on a journey through history as well as give tips for a colorful day out.

The Tulip History: From Turkey to the Netherlands

Although today the tulip is inextricably linked to the Netherlands, the origin of this flower lies in Central Asia and the Ottoman Empire (present-day Turkey). In the 16th century, the tulip was brought to Europe by the diplomat Ogier Ghiselin de Busbecq. The flower ended up in the botanical gardens of Carolus Clusius in Leiden, where it laid the foundation for later Dutch tulip cultivation.

The 17th century saw a veritable “tulip mania. Tulip bulbs became so valuable that they sometimes cost more than an Amsterdam canal house! This speculation bubble broke in 1637, but the love for the tulip remained. Today, Holland is the world’s largest tulip grower and exporter, and North Holland plays a key role in this thriving industry.

Spring activities in North Holland: Discover the Floral Splendor

Every year, from March through May, North Holland is in full bloom. There are plenty of activities and events where you can admire the colorful tulip fields and floral displays. Here are some highlights:

1. The Flower Days in Anna Paulowna (April)
   The village of Anna Paulowna, located in the Kop van Noord-Holland, hosts the Flower Days every spring. Streets and squares are decorated with beautiful flower mosaics made of thousands of hyacinth flowers. A unique and fragrant experience! More information: Flower Days.
2. Tulip Bike and Car Routes
   One of the best ways to explore the tulip fields is by bike or car. There are several tulip routes, including:
   • The Flower Bulb Route in the Kop van Noord-Holland – A beautiful ride along the vast tulip fields near Callantsoog, Julianadorp and Breezand. More information: Bloembollenroute.
   • The Tulip Route in the Bulb Region – Although officially located in South Holland, the Bulb Region is nearby and well worth a visit. More information: Tulip Route Bollenstreek.
3. Hortus Bulborum in Limmen
   For those who want to learn more about the history of flower bulbs, a visit to Hortus Bulborum in Limmen is highly recommended. This unique garden houses more than 4,000 historic varieties of tulips, daffodils and hyacinths, some of which are centuries old! More information: Hortus Bulborum.
4. Bloemencorso Bollenstreek (April)
   One of the largest flower events in the Netherlands is the Bloemencorso Bollenstreek, a parade of floats decorated with millions of flowers. The parade attracts thousands of visitors each year and follows a route from Noordwijk to Haarlem. More information: Bloemencorso Bollenstreek.
5. Tulip fields from the water
   Would you like to admire the tulip fields in a unique way? Then step aboard a whisper boat or canal cruise in the Schagen or Alkmaar region and enjoy a colorful cruise along the tulip fields. More information: Tulip cruise.

The tulip has a rich history in the Netherlands and remains an enchanting spectacle each spring. North Holland offers countless opportunities to experience this floral splendor, from bicycle routes and boating tours to flower parades and historic gardens. So head out and immerse yourself in the color feast of spring!

Have you been to North Holland during tulip season? Check out our lodging locations and plan your perfect spring getaway!

National Park Zuid-Kennemerland, located on the Dutch coast between Zandvoort and IJmuiden, offers a unique experience in every season. In autumn and winter, the park becomes quieter and nature takes on different colors and shapes. Although these months are less crowded in the area than spring and summer, the very silence, special light and rich nature make a visit to Zuid-Kennemerland in the colder months extra special. In this blog, we take you on an exploration of this vast park in autumn and winter.

Autumn: splashes of color in the dunes

In autumn, the dunes and forests of South Kennemerland transform into a palette of warm hues. Park trees such as oaks and birches turn red, orange and brown, and ferns shift from fresh green to earth tones. Heaths give way to evergreen mosses and graceful grasses, creating a diverse landscape that is never the same. Tip: For a beautiful autumn walk, the Brederodeberg trail is highly recommended. This trail leads you through forests and moors and up to Brederodeberg, where you’ll have views of the park and coastline. Don’t forget to bring your camera, as the autumn colors make every part of the trail worth capturing.

Animals in Autumn and Winter

In autumn, the animals prepare for winter, giving the park a dynamic character. Fallow deer and roe deer are active, and sometimes you can hear the deer’s belling – an impressive sound that echoes through the dunes. Foxes, Scottish Highlanders and Konik horses are also highly visible at this time, as the vegetation thins and hiding places are reduced. Winter tip: In winter, provided there is snow, you can follow the tracks of these animals. Especially around dawn or dusk you have a chance to spot them in their natural habitat.

Winter Walks: Silent Coastlines and Foggy Dunes

With falling temperatures, National Park South-Kennemerland becomes an oasis of calm. The sea breeze blows through the dunes, and sometimes a light mist slowly creeps over the hills. Winter is a good time for long, quiet walks along the coast, where the silence gives your thoughts space and you really get away from the hustle and bustle. For example, try a walk along Bloemendaal beach, where the waves of the North Sea make the fresh winter air even more intense. A warm hat and thick coat are enough to keep out the cold, and the clear air will give you new energy. Tip: The Visscherspad is a beautiful path that takes you from the dunes to the coast, offering views of the sea along the way. After a winter beach walk, you can warm up with a hot chocolate at one of the open beach pavilions.

Birds and Nature Observation

Bird watchers also get their money’s worth in South Kennemerland in autumn and winter. Migratory birds such as geese, redwings and blackbirds stop over or stay temporarily in the park. The kingfisher also sometimes shows itself along the waters, especially in cold, clear weather. The dune lakes, such as Vogelmeer and ‘t Wed, are ideal places to spot birds. With binoculars, you can discover waterfowl and other species that come to rest during their long migration.

Routes and Winter Highlights

In winter there are special excursions where you can discover the park in a unique way, such as twilight or night walks with a guide. During these walks you will experience the silence of the dunes in a different way and learn more about nature and animal life in these cold months. You can also explore the park by bike via the special bike routes. Bring a thermos bottle for a warm break along the way and enjoy the view of the dunes from one of the benches along the route.

To conclude: Discovering South-Kennemerland in Winter

Whether you come for hiking, biking, bird watching or just to experience the peace and quiet, National Park South-Kennemerland in autumn and winter has much to offer. The quiet trails, vistas and animals in their winter coats make this time of year special. Where in summer you encounter other hikers, now you are often alone with nature – an experience that energizes you and provides a moment of relaxation. Special Offer: Plan your winter visit and enjoy 10% off all overnight stays during December, January and February. Use the discount code FINESTWINTER when booking and discover South-Kennemerland at its best!

Bosvilla – Forest Stay, Kennemerduinen, by Alys.nl

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photos: https://www.np-zuidkennemerland.nl/nl

North Holland, a province located in the western part of the Netherlands, is known for its rich history, diverse landscapes and cultural treasures. From picturesque villages to bustling cities and vast natural areas, North Holland offers a wide range of attractions and activities. Discover what makes this unique province so special.

Historic Towns and Villages

Amsterdam attractions
Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is an absolute must-see. With its canals, historic buildings and world-famous museums such as the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum and the Anne Frank House, Amsterdam offers a rich cultural experience. The city is also known for its lively nightlife and diverse dining scene. Discover more about Amsterdam.

Haarlem historic city
Haarlem is a gem in itself with its charming historic center, beautiful architecture and impressive Grote Markt. Visit the Frans Hals Museum for a look at the work of the eponymous master. Plan your visit to Haarlem.

Alkmaar cheese market
Famous for its cheese market, which takes place every Friday from April to September, Alkmaar is a spectacular sight. The atmospheric center with many stores, cafes and restaurants completes it. Visit the Alkmaar cheese market.

Nature and Landscape

The Zaanse Schans
The Zaanse Schans offers a good picture of Dutch life in the 18th and 19th centuries. Here you will find traditional wooden houses, windmills, a cheese farm and a clog factory. Read more about the Zaanse Schans.

Nationaal Park Zuid-Kennemerland
This national park stretches across the dunes between Zandvoort and IJmuiden and offers a beautiful natural landscape. Ideal for hikers and nature lovers. Explore South-Kennemerland National Park.

IJsselmeer
The IJsselmeer, the largest lake in the Netherlands, offers numerous recreational activities such as sailing, kite surfing, fishing and swimming. Along the coast you will find charming villages such as Volendam and Marken, known for their traditional costumes and quaint cottages. Discover activities around the IJsselmeer.

Culture and Traditions

Cheese
North Holland is synonymous with cheese. Visit one of the many cheese dairies or markets and taste the famous Edam and Gouda cheeses. These cheeses are still made using traditional methods and are loved around the world. Discover the best cheese makers.

Tulip Fields Netherlands
In the Kop van Noord-Holland region you will find vast tulip fields that turn into a colorful carpet of flowers in spring. This is a spectacular sight and a photographer’s paradise. Visit the tulip fields.

Modern Innovations

The North/South Line
The North/South Line connects the north of Amsterdam with the south and is a feat of modern engineering and architecture. This subway line has significantly improved travel around the city. Read more about the North/South Line.

Sustainability
North Holland is at the forefront of sustainability with numerous green energy projects such as wind farms and solar projects. The province aims to become one of the most sustainable regions in Europe. Discover sustainable initiatives in North Holland.

North Holland is a province full of contrasts and surprises. From the historic splendor of Amsterdam and Haarlem to the natural beauty of the dunes and IJsselmeer, and from traditional cheese markets to modern innovations, there is something for everyone to discover. Plan your visit and be enchanted by the versatility and charm of North Holland.

View the destinations of Alys

Haarlem, one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands, is known for its rich history and beautiful architecture. With its well-preserved old buildings and modern designs, Haarlem offers a unique blend that enchants architecture lovers and day-trippers alike. In this blog, we take a deep dive into the architectural treasures Haarlem has to offer.

The Great or St. Bavo Church: A Showpiece of Gothic Architecture

A visit to Haarlem is not complete without admiring the Great or St. Bavo Church. This imposing church dominates the cityscape with its tall tower and is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. The interior of the church is equally impressive, with beautiful vaulted ceilings and a famous Müller organ considered one of the finest in the world.

The Teylers Museum: Art and Science in Harmony

Teylers Museum, the oldest museum in the Netherlands, is famous not only for its art collections and scientific instruments, but also for its unusual architecture. A perfect example of the transition between rococo and neoclassicism, the museum building offers a fascinating look at how art and science merged in the 18th century.

The Amsterdam Gate: A Remnant of Medieval Grandeur

One of Haarlem’s last remaining city gates, the Amsterdam Gate, testifies to the city’s medieval power and wealth. This gate, with its distinctive turrets and sturdy construction, is a picturesque entrance to the old city center and reminds visitors of the times of defensive walls and city moats.

Modern Architecture: Innovatie Between History

In addition to its historic buildings, Haarlem also has modern architecture that is notable for its innovation and sustainability. Contemporary structures such as the new courthouse and several office buildings show how modern design can integrate with Haarlem’s traditional cityscapes.

Walking and Architectural Tours

For those who want to experience Haarlem’s architectural diversity for themselves, several walking tours and organized tours are available. These routes take you past some of the city’s most impressive buildings and offer in-depth insights into architectural styles and historical context.

Haarlem offers an architectural experience rich in both history and contemporary developments. Whether you are interested in the Gothic splendor of ancient churches, the elegant lines of neoclassical museums, or the sleek designs of modern structures, Haarlem offers a wide spectrum of visual and cultural enrichment. So grab your camera and comfortable shoes, and prepare to explore the architecture of this fascinating city.

Alys in Haarlem

Our accommodations in Haarlem are both comfortable and centrally located. Our cozy apartments at Finest Apartments, or our Anegang Boutique Hotel, are pre-eminently the perfect locations to discover Haarlem. Each apartment and room offers a feeling of home with quality amenities, ideal for both short and long stays. Suitable for 1 to 4 people, they are perfectly tailored to your needs.

Our apartments and rooms are located on Haarlem’s most prominent shopping street. Here you are literally steps away from leading restaurants and major attractions. The location alone makes our apartments and rooms an ideal choice for anyone who wants to experience the best of Haarlem without compromising on convenience and comfort.

The Kennemer Dunes, located within South Kennemerland National Park, offer breathtaking natural beauty and a wealth of biodiversity that invites nature lovers and adventurers to explore. Just a short trip from Amsterdam, this dynamic dune landscape offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and a chance to immerse yourself in nature.

Kennermer Dunes: A Living Landscape

The Kennemer Dunes, stretching from Zandvoort to IJmuiden, are one of the most varied natural areas in the Netherlands. The area is characterized by a series of sand dunes interspersed with forests, fens and moors. These varied habitats are home to rich flora and fauna. From the rare parnassia to the majestic bald eagle, the biodiversity of the Kennemer Dunes never ceases to amaze visitors.

Hiking and Cycling

For the active visitor, the Kennemer Dunes offer excellent opportunities for hiking and biking along well-maintained trails. With trails of varying lengths and levels of difficulty, everyone from the casual hiker to the experienced hiker can enjoy a day of adventure in this vast landscape. The dune trails offer panoramic views that reveal a new surprise at every turn.

Fauna in Abundance

One of the most exciting aspects of the Kennemer Dunes is its rich wildlife. The area is known for its large populations of fallow deer, rabbits and foxes, as well as for the many bird species found here. Bird watchers will be in for a treat with sightings of the bluebird, wheatear and even the rare spoonbill, among others.

Dune lakes and fens

Scattered throughout the dune landscape are several lakes and fens that are essential to the hydrology of the area and play a crucial role in the local ecology. The Wed, a large dune lake, is particularly popular with visitors, offering cooling on hot summer days and the chance to observe various waterfowl.

Protection and Management

The management of the Kennemer Dunes is aimed at preserving this unique natural heritage. Visitors are encouraged to treat nature with respect and follow the trails to protect the fragile dune habitat. Educational programs and guided tours are available to help visitors better understand the ecological value and the need for conservation of this beautiful area.

The Kennemer Dunes are more than just a day out; it is an experience that brings you closer to nature and shows you how important it is to cherish and protect our natural environments. Whether you take a leisurely walk, go wildlife spotting, or just breathe the fresh air, the Kennemer Dunes offer an unforgettable experience for every visitor.

Our Bosvilla is in a beautiful spot in the Kennemer Dunes nature reserve. Celebrate vacations with family or friends and enjoy a stay in the middle of nature. At the end of a forest path, completely private and secluded from civilization, you will find this special villa with a spacious garden. When the weather is nice, you will enjoy an outdoor kitchen, volleyball court, soccer goals, trampoline, hammock and, of course, a lovely terrace where you will enjoy the surrounding greenery. The amenities are only for you and your party, as the entire plot of the villa is fenced.

Inside, the villa can be described as classic country-style, with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a spacious sitting room and dining room. These last two rooms both have their own fireplace. The fully equipped kitchen has a Boretti stove with oven, spacious refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, washing machine and a Nespresso coffee machine. Large company? In one of the bedrooms there is a double sofa bed. Next to the house is another separate small house set up as a sleeping quarters with its own bathroom. As a result, you can stay at the Forest Villa for up to 10 people.