With the countryside blooming but tourists crowds yet to, spring is the ideal time for a European adventure, from sea kayaking in Sardinia to cycling through the tulips near Amsterdam
Millions of tulips turn the landscape of the Netherlands into a carpet of colour each spring – usually between the beginning of April and mid-May, and particularly between Haarlem and Leiden to the west of Amsterdam. The best way to explore is on a bicycle, along well-kept cycle paths that thread their way through a sea of colour – and with such a flat landscape, it’s not strenuous. The Keukenhof Flower Gardens, to the south-west of Amsterdam, are a highlight, with 32 hectares of gardens planted with tulips, as well as daffodils and hyacinths.
• Book it A four-night, self-guided cycling holiday in early April to mid-May costs from £408pp, including bikes, luggage transfers and B&B. E-bikes can be arranged, flexitreks.com
from Lifestyle | The Guardian http://bit.ly/2t0JoNF