Amsterdam side trip

"I'm thinking we'd like to see the dykes, windmills, tulips"

Visit Keukenhof and you'll see more than enough tulips. I don't know if there's any traditional windmills between here and Amsterdam (probably some modern ones though, these are all over the place in the Netherlands), but there's a working example within the grounds of Keukenhof.

The Dutch countryside in the Randstad area (the heavily populated arc of land that runs from Dordrecht clockwise through Rotterdam and Amsterdam to Utretch) is often more functional than picturesque. But in May, you may see some of the polderland still in bloom with tulips.

Marybeth, as previously noted, there is at least one windmill at Keukenhoff with a great view of the huge adjacent commercial tulip fields from the upper level.

There's also a working windmill in Leiden with folks there to explanation the history and how/why the things work. Easy walk from the train station.

A not bad way to get to Keuk from A'dam is train to Leiden, hop a bus (right outside the train station) for regular/frequent/quick (20min??)trips (via Lisse) to the gardens. You can buy a package deal including tranport and entrance to Keuk at A'dam Centraal or at the VVV (tourist office) just outside the station.

I like all these ideas. I really like the idea of going somewhere outside of Amsterdam and renting a bike for some kind of countryside tour. I'll have to check out that link for ideas. Thanks.

Years ago I rented a bike at A'dam Centraal and rode north of the city on a route from the TI. It was a great thing to do.

The return trip went on top of a dike, but unfortunately I got totally lost so i never saw it.

However you do it I think a bike ride is an inspired idea.

OK, I'm getting so excited! I think just about anywhere in the countryside by bike will be so much fun.

North of Amsterdam, there is a town called Volendam. I love this area of the Netherlands. On the outskirts of town, off the main highway, there is a large, touristy hotel where they rent out bikes, have a cheese shop and where they demonstrate to tourists the art of making clogs. (I'm searching the internet for the name.) There's also several windmills in this area. We rented bikes at the hotel and rode them into the main town that goes along the shore and continued riding along the top of the docks to the town of Edam. It was a blast. We always stay in this area and drive into the city. We love staying in the countryside. You'll absolutely enjoy getting out of the city. Have fun!

Hi Denise, yes I've done more research today and am thinking of Volendam and Edam as a good choice.