Route description for 04 2025 - Netherlands Tulip blossom

Starlight Express – The fast-paced musical on roller skates

Since its premiere in London in 1984, Starlight Express has delighted audiences around the world with a unique blend of thrilling music, spectacular roller skating action, and a heartwarming story. Composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber, the musical tells the story of Rusty, a steam engine who must prove himself in a great race against modern high-speed trains – and learns to believe in himself in the process.

Starlight Express is particularly well-known for its energetic choreography on roller skates, which immerses the audience in the action. In Germany, the musical has been running continuously since 1988 in Bochum – in a purpose-built theater. With over 19 million viewers, it is the most successful musical to be performed at a permanent location worldwide.

Whether it's nostalgic memories or breathtaking thrills, Starlight Express continues to captivate audiences even decades later. If you haven't seen it yet, don't miss this fast-paced experience! 🚂✨

Parking report: Parking at the Starlight Express Theater, Bochum

On my trip through the Ruhr region, I stopped at the large parking lot at the Starlight Express Theater in Bochum. The area is paved in places, but not entirely flat—those traveling with a campervan may want to have chocks ready.

Access is via a barrier with license plate recognition, and payment is possible at the machine in the adjacent parking garage. Important: Cashless payments are accepted only! The parking lot is available during performances of the musical and on match days at the nearby stadium.

Due to the direct location near the highway, you have to expect a certain amount of noise. Fortunately, this didn't really bother me. However, the infrastructure within walking distance is convenient: In about ten minutes, you can reach a bakery, an Edeka supermarket, and other shops for daily needs.

For a short overnight stay or a musical, the parking lot is a practical option—although not particularly comfortable. If you're passing through and looking for convenient parking, this is a good option.

Obelink Leisure Market – A paradise for camping and outdoor enthusiasts

Anyone who loves camping can't miss Obelink . The huge leisure market in Winterswijk, Netherlands, is considered one of the best addresses for campers, motorhome owners, and outdoor enthusiasts. With a sales area of over 72,500 square meters, Obelink offers an incredible selection – from tents, camping furniture, and awnings to technical equipment and spare parts.

As soon as you enter the market, it's clear: you'll find almost everything a camper's heart desires. The variety of accessories is particularly impressive, rarely found in such abundance. From affordable basic equipment to high-quality premium brands, there's something for every budget. The large tent exhibition is also a highlight, as you can get a firsthand look at various models here.

Of course, there are also a few disadvantages. It can get very busy on weekends, so you should be prepared for long waits at the checkouts and for customer service. Furthermore, not all products are consistently cheaper than those offered by German online retailers, so it's a good idea to compare prices.

Nevertheless, Obelink remains a worthwhile destination for me—not just for shopping, but also for inspiration. Anyone interested in camping or traveling with a motorhome should definitely check this market out. And a quick detour to nearby Winterswijk perfectly rounds off the visit.⛺🛒

Tip:

The restaurant is recommended; there is something to suit every taste, especially the lunch which is great value for money.

Camping Vreehorst offers the perfect camping holiday for every taste. Whether you're looking for a standard Comfort pitch or a pitch with private sanitary facilities, there's something for everyone here. The modern sanitary facilities meet the highest standards, and for campervan travelers, there are specially paved pitches outside the campsite – ideal for short stays, such as when visiting the Obelink leisure market.

Four-legged friends are also welcome, so vacationing with your dog is no problem. In addition to comfortable pitches, the campsite offers numerous recreational opportunities: an outdoor and indoor pool, a cozy food corner, and much more ensure a relaxing stay.

Kasteel Doorwerth – A historic gem with a unique atmosphere

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of the Veluwe, Kasteel Doorwerth rises as one of the most impressive castles in the Netherlands. With its centuries-old history, idyllic location on the Rhine, and lovingly restored architecture, the castle captivates not only history buffs but also nature lovers.

Even the drive through the green surroundings transports you back to another time. The moated castle, whose origins date back to the 13th century, impresses with its mighty walls, historic interiors, and manicured gardens. Particularly fascinating is the detailed exhibition inside, which recounts the castle's eventful history – from medieval battles to the devastation of World War II to the extensive restoration.

For me, the atmosphere was particularly special: While walking through the ancient walls, you can vividly imagine how knights, noblemen, and servants once lived here. Anyone who enjoys historic buildings and the romanticism of castles will feel at home here. A visit is especially worthwhile on a sunny day, as the surrounding hiking trails and castle gardens are perfect for exploring.

One small drawback is that the exhibition is mostly in Dutch—those who don't speak the language should read up on the history beforehand. Nevertheless, I still highly recommend Kasteel Doorwerth , a destination that perfectly combines history, nature, and a fairytale setting.

A fantastic campsite! The spacious pitches are surrounded by hedges and offer plenty of space. Each pitch has an electrical connection. The water and waste disposal station is located at the entrance and exit (electricity, water, and waste disposal are subject to a fee).

Registration is straightforward via the information box at the restroom building using a form and a cash box. Coins are required for all services.

The Nederlands Openluchtmuseum in Arnhem – A journey through 350 years of Dutch history

The Netherlands Open Air Museum is an impressive open-air museum in Arnhem that offers a comprehensive insight into life in the Netherlands over the past 350 years. The slogan of the museum's German website is "Experience Holland in one day." And you should take that literally—a whole day is needed to discover even remotely all the facets of this special place.

Historical insights and authentic atmosphere

The museum extends over extensive grounds with numerous historic buildings that were relocated here from various regions of the Netherlands. Farms, houses, workshops, mills, and even a church are perfectly integrated into the landscape and appear as if they had always stood here.

The authenticity is particularly impressive: In a 17th-century farmhouse, the aroma of freshly cooked bacon wafts as a farmer's wife cooks on a wood-burning stove. Laundry flutters in the wind, cats sleep in the straw, and sheep, cows, and pigs graze in the pastures. Life in past centuries comes alive here.

Traditional craftsmanship and living history

Many of the buildings are brought to life by actors during opening hours: The fisherman mends his nets, the baker bakes bread in the wood-fired oven, and the blacksmith works glowing iron in his workshop. Visitors have the opportunity to purchase traditional handicrafts such as freshly pressed linseed oil or hand-woven tea towels. The museum also has a lot to offer in terms of culinary delights – from freshly baked bread to nostalgic ice cream from the 1960s.

When no actors are present, lifelike puppets ensure an immersive experience. Particularly impressive is the 1950s hospital ward, where a strict nurse and the smell of disinfectant create an almost eerily realistic atmosphere.

Interactive experiences and historical perspectives

With more than 100 buildings on the site, there are countless stories to discover. Information panels in Dutch, English, and German provide information about the buildings' history, and former residents recount their former lives through film and audio recordings. What's particularly exciting is that marginalized groups are also given a voice: insights into the lives of newcomers from the former colony of Indonesia or residents of a caravan camp reveal the diversity of Dutch society over time.

Conclusion

The Netherlands Open Air Museum is more than just an open-air museum—it's a vibrant journey through Dutch history. With its authentic design, interactive experiences, and diverse historical insights, it offers a unique and fascinating day out for visitors of all ages. Anyone who wants to experience the Netherlands in all its diversity shouldn't miss this museum.

Report on the motorhome parking space next to the dairy farm

The RV park is located in the immediate vicinity of a dairy farm and offers guests a peaceful, natural environment. There are no set departure and arrival times, but we ask that you respect your own peace and quiet as well as that of other guests.

Pets

Dogs are welcome at the motorhome parking area.

Parking spaces and power supply

The site has a total of 25 pitches, 9 of which are paved and 16 are unpaved. A 10A power connection is available for 21 pitches.

Sanitary facilities and infrastructure

In the information room, guests can find useful information about the site and the surrounding area. The following restroom facilities are also available:

• 4 showers
• 4 toilets
• 4 sinks

Drinking water is available at a water point near the sanitary facilities. There is also a wastewater disposal point for greywater and cassette toilets. A garbage collection point is also available to ensure proper waste disposal.

Conclusion

The RV park offers a well-equipped infrastructure for travelers who appreciate a natural environment. With its comprehensive amenities and the absence of fixed arrival and departure times, it allows for a pleasant and flexible stay.

The parking lot is located 1.7 km from the entrance to the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

From here, visitors can take a walk or bike ride to the windmills, enjoying the impressive views of the World Heritage Site from start to finish.

Parking hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. The parking fee is €9.50 per camper.

Visitors must purchase their parking ticket online, together with their Kinderdijk entrance ticket

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Overnight parking is not permitted. Bicycles are also available for rental on-site. These are accessible via a smart lock system and offer a convenient option for exploring the surrounding area.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kinderdijk is one of the most impressive sights in the Netherlands. The famous windmills, which have existed since the 18th century, offer a unique insight into the history of Dutch water management.

Experiences and sights

The Kinderdijk walking tour offers breathtaking views of the 19 historic windmills, some of which are still in operation today. Visitors can learn about the history and operation of the mills in various exhibitions or take a boat tour through the canals to experience the area from a different perspective.

Conclusion

A visit to Kinderdijk is an unforgettable experience and provides fascinating insights into Dutch engineering. The combination of nature, history, and technology makes this place a special destination for visitors from all over the world.

The Vertoeven bij Verhoeven campsite is located in an idyllic setting for campers seeking relaxation and comfort. The well-maintained site is set in a rural location and is an ideal base for exploring the surrounding area.

Facilities and services

The site features spacious pitches with electrical hookups and a well-equipped water and waste disposal station. Clean sanitary facilities with showers and toilets ensure a pleasant stay. Free Wi-Fi is also available.

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Location and surroundings

The area surrounding Vertoeven bij Verhoeven is ideal for long walks and bike rides. In the immediate vicinity are picturesque villages with traditional buildings and regional specialties, inviting you to linger. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kinderdijk, with its famous windmills, is also easily accessible and offers an impressive day trip destination.

Booking and prices

The pitch fees are moderate. Payment is conveniently made by card or cash on site. Due to the site's popularity, early booking is recommended, especially during peak season.

Conclusion

The Vertoeven bij Verhoeven campsite is an excellent choice for campers seeking peace and quiet in nature. Its well-maintained facilities and convenient location make it an attractive destination for short and medium-length stays.

Keukenhof, located near Lisse in the Netherlands, is particularly known for its colorful tulip fields. This report describes my impressions of the visit, the highlights of the exhibition, and practical information for future visitors.

Arrival and first impression

I arrived by camper van, and even on the way there, I was able to admire the vast flower fields that characterize the region. At the entrance, I was greeted by an impressive display of blossoms that immediately reflected the special atmosphere of Keukenhof. The park was very well organized, and despite the large number of visitors, admission went smoothly.

The gardens

Keukenhof covers an area of approximately 32 hectares and is home to millions of tulips and numerous other spring flowers. The various themed and display gardens offered a diverse experience:

• Historical Garden : Here you can learn about old tulip varieties and the development of tulip breeding.
• Inspirational gardens : Various modern garden concepts showed creative design options for the home garden.
• Pavilions : The pavilions featured impressive flower displays, including orchids and hyacinths.

Special experiences

A highlight of my visit was the view of the surrounding tulip fields, stretching out in vibrant colors. Furthermore, various art installations in the park offered a successful connection between nature and culture. Particularly impressive was the water feature, which blended harmoniously into the garden architecture.

Practical information

• Gastronomy : Several restaurants and snack bars offered regional and international dishes.
• Accessibility : The park is easily accessible for people with reduced mobility.

Conclusion

My visit to Keukenhof was an unforgettable experience. The variety of flowers, the meticulously designed gardens, and the relaxed atmosphere made the day a special highlight. I highly recommend Keukenhof to any flower lover and photography enthusiast.

Special features:

The farm offers seasonal products such as potatoes, onions, honey, cheese and flowers.

Decemberhoeve offers a comfortable and well-equipped pitch in a rural setting with a variety of recreational opportunities nearby.

The Tulip Experience Amsterdam is an interactive exhibition that offers visitors a comprehensive insight into the history, cultivation, and significance of the tulip in the Netherlands. In addition to numerous photo opportunities, the experience also offers the chance to experience the vibrant colors of the tulip fields up close.

Arrival and first impression

The Tulip Experience is located in Noordwijkerhout, just a few kilometers from the famous Keukenhof Gardens. Getting there was easy, with well-marked parking for cars and camper vans. Upon entering the grounds, the vast tulip fields in a variety of colors immediately impressed. The entrance area was modern and immediately invited you to explore.

Exhibition and experiences

The exhibition began with an informative tour through the history of tulips in the Netherlands. Historical exhibits and multimedia presentations explained how tulips sparked "tulip mania" in the 17th century and their significance for the Dutch flower trade today. Particularly impressive was the re-creation of a traditional tulip farm, which vividly depicted the entire process from cultivation to harvest.

Another highlight was the large tulip field, which offered visitors the opportunity to stroll among thousands of tulips and take unique photos. There was also a station where visitors could create their own tulip bouquet.

Special experiences

In addition to the classic exhibitions, there were interactive areas, including:

• Photo spots: Creatively designed backdrops with tulips in every imaginable color for perfect souvenir photos.
• Pick your own tulips: Each visitor was allowed to take home a selection of tulips as a souvenir at the end of their stay.
• Café and shop: The adjacent café offered typical Dutch delicacies, while the shop offered a wide selection of tulip bulbs and souvenirs.

Conclusion

The Tulip Experience Amsterdam was a worthwhile excursion that not only impressed the eye, but also provided interesting insights into the history and cultivation of tulips. This attraction is a must-see during the tulip bloom in the Netherlands, especially for photography enthusiasts and flower lovers.

Recommendation: Arrive early in the day to avoid the large crowds and wear comfortable shoes.

Impression of the beach

Langevelderslag beach was a spacious, clean stretch of sand with an impressive dune landscape. The North Sea water was refreshing, and despite the fresh breeze, the weather was inviting. The atmosphere was relaxed, and there were both walkers and water sports enthusiasts out and about.

Activities:

• A long walk along the coast with a view of the setting sun.
• Visit one of the numerous beach pavilions to enjoy a typical Dutch specialty.
• Photography of the dune landscape, the beach and the North Sea.
• Relaxing on the sand and watching the activity on the water.

gastronomy

The beach restaurants offered a wide selection of food and drinks. [Name of restaurant visited] was particularly recommended, offering freshly prepared seafood and a cozy atmosphere.

Conclusion

The visit to Langevelderslag Beach was a successful combination of relaxation and exploration. The wide sandy expanses, pleasant atmosphere, and good infrastructure make this place a perfect destination for a day trip or a longer stay with your motorhome.

Conclusion: The visit to Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe was a fascinating blend of culture, history, and nature. The Hercules Monument, the water features, and the art collection in the palace were particularly impressive. The park offers numerous opportunities for relaxation and is an absolute highlight for visitors interested in architecture, art, and landscape design. A visit is highly recommended!