Where in the World is Marta Senn-Diego? Part Twenty-three: Free to Be Lisse and Me

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Amsterdam? For those of my generation, the second thing. Tulips! They are synonymous with the Netherlands. 

They were a huge commodity for the aristocracy between the 1600s and 1700s. From a humble, onion-like bulb, a slender single bloom bursts to graceful and brilliant life. They come in so many colors and patterns now, all of which you can find at any flower market of repute. And they come readily available as bulbs, blooms and in cans. Yes, cans!

My favorites are the Rembrandt tulips because they look like they were painstakingly brushed with stripes of color.

One of the most famous attractions in the Netherlands are the famous tulip fields, loved for their brilliance and varied colors laid out in beautiful quilt-like blocks. Keukenhof Park in Lisse is one of the most popular parks to visit for those who love tulips or other springtime flowers like daffodils and hyacinths. 

However, if you don’t feel like milling through the park with the crowds and fighting to get a peek at the flowers through a picket fence of legs and selfie-sticks, might I suggest an alternative. 

I read about biking the tulip fields around Keukenhof and was much more interested in seeing tulips in the wide open farm than finely manicured gardens. I’m not saying the gardens aren’t wonderful: I’ve read great things. But I’ll save that for when I’m too geriatric to ride a bike and even then, my children will have to drag me through the entrance gate.

For just 10 Euro, you get a bike, a map of routes and some recommendations from the rental people. The man who helped me suggested that I stay inland from the dunes to the west since it was so windy. He recommended a few other trails, all of which circumnavigate the park, so you definitely get your money’s worth if that’s what you’re into. 

And off I went! Well, it wasn’t that smooth. It’s been about 3 years since I rode a bike and it took a minute or two to get the feeling back. But it really is true what they say! Once I had some momentum, I was on my way. 

It was a gorgeous day, sunny and as pastoral as any Impressionist painting. But that freaking wind! Riding broadside to it was hazardous and trying to bike up a slope against the wind? Forget about it! Of course, my thighs feel like jelly but it was very rewarding to round the next corner and find another field of tulips. 

After about four hours of riding and taking pictures and just taking in the scenery, I decided I should start back. I passed out on the bus back and even now, I’m exhausted. I revived with a few cheese samples courtesy of Cheese & More shops along my route home, but I’m thoroughly overdosed on beauty and exercise for one day.