Through the Green Heart Itinerary
Take a journey through the Green Heart of the Netherlands! This road trip starts in Leiden and ends in Utrecht and covers a distance of ca. 159km. It's recommended to take two days to complete this journey, with the best time of the year to drive being during the spring or summer months. The route takes you through the towns of Aalphen aan den Rijn, Kasteel de Haar and Oudewater, with plenty of attractions and sights to explore along the way. The road conditions are excellent, although some sections of the route can be quite narrow. This road trip is suitable for all drivers, and can easily be managed on a moderate budget. You'll come away with a very high level of experience and great memories of your journey through the Green Heart of the Netherlands!
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number of days
158 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Leiden
Distance 158 km
Driving time 3.8 h
Pace: slow
36.5 kWh
Airports
AMS
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EIN
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Leiden is the perfect starting point for the "Through the Green Heart Road Trip". Located in South Holland, nearby the famous cities of Amsterdam and The Hague, Leiden is a vibrant and dynamic city, full of history and culture. Its ancient city center, dating back to the Middle Ages, is a fantastic place to explore and wander around, with its canals, its old buildings and its cobbled streets.
The oldest university in the Netherlands, Leiden University, is located here, providing the city with a youthful atmosphere. The Hortus Botanicus is also located here, a botanical garden that dates back to the 16th century, full of plants and trees from all over the world. The Rijksmuseum van Oudheden is a must-see for all those interested in the history of the area, with its collections of Egyptian, Greek and Roman artifacts.
The closest international airport is Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (IATA code: AMS), located only 20 minutes away from the city center. Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy to start the "Through the Green Heart Road Trip" in Leiden.
Leiden is full of historic charm and will provide a great start to the journey.
1
Leiden
- Aalphen aan den Rijn
Distance 34 km
Driving time 0.8 h
Pace: modest
8.9 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a road trip from Leiden, Netherlands to Aalphen aan den Rijn, and discover the hidden gems of Zoetermeer. This 34 km journey will take you less than an hour, but you will be sure to find enough interesting sites to keep you busy. In Zoetermeer, start your exploration of the city with a visit to the historic city center, where you can find plenty of monuments and attractions. Don’t miss the chance to take a stroll around the beautiful parks and gardens, and take in the stunning views of the city. As you continue your journey, keep an eye out for the scenic roads, and don’t forget to take a few pictures along the way. When you reach Aalphen aan den Rijn, you will find plenty of attractions to explore, such as the local museums and the historic castle. Make sure to check out the local restaurants, shops, and other attractions to get a true taste of the Dutch culture. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage.
Aalphen aan den Rijn - Netherlands - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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2
Aalphen aan den Rijn
- Kasteel de Haar
Distance 56 km
Driving time 1.3 h
Pace: modest
14.6 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome road-trippers! Get ready to explore the fascinating journey from Aalphen aan den Rijn to Kasteel de Haar, a 57km drive that will take you less than two hours. This is an amazing journey full of historical sites and scenic roads. As you drive, you will come across some narrow sections of the road, so please be aware and drive safely. Along the way, make sure to stop at some of the most interesting places, such as the historical Kasteel de Haar, the picturesque village of Haarzuilens, and the beautiful Kasteel Groeneveld. All of these places have something unique to offer and will make your trip even more memorable. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Kasteel de Haar - Netherlands - Europe - Scenic Drive - www.flickr.com
Kasteel de Haar - Netherlands - Europe - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
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3
Kasteel de Haar
- Oudewater
Distance 18 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: slow
4.2 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready to explore the historical sites of Kasteel de Haar, Montfoort and Oudewater? This 18 km road trip will take you less than 1 hour to complete, and you will be rewarded with amazing views and breathtaking historical sites.
Start your journey at Kasteel de Haar, a stunning castle with a beautiful garden, perfect for a picnic. Then, head to Montfoort, a small town with a picturesque town center and a beautiful windmill. Make sure you stop to admire the views! Finally, end your journey in Oudewater, a small city that is home to the oldest weigh house in the Netherlands.
This is just one of the many stages of a larger tour. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Oudewater - Netherlands - Europe - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
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4
Oudewater
- Utrecht
Distance 50 km
Driving time 1.2 h
Pace: slow
11.4 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Oudewater to Utrecht and explore the amazing attractions in between. This 50km journey, which takes less than 2 hours to complete, takes you through the picturesque towns of Hekendorp and Utrecht. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled as you drive along the roads, as you may come across some fascinating historical sites, scenic roads, and narrow sections.
Start your journey in Oudewater, a small town with an ancient history. Enjoy the beautiful city center and explore the cobbled streets, unique shops, and local eateries. Next, take a drive to Hekendorp, a charming village with a rich cultural heritage. Here, you can admire the old buildings, enjoy a stroll along the canals, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Finally, make your way to Utrecht, a vibrant city with plenty of attractions to discover. Stroll around the old city center, visit the beautiful churches, and explore the many cafes, restaurants, and bars. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, make sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Utrecht - Netherlands - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
Utrecht - Netherlands - Europe - Scenic Drive - pxhere.com
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Utrecht
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The city of Utrecht in the Netherlands is the perfect ending point for the “Through the Green Heart Road Trip”. It has a lot to offer, from the stunning architecture to the unique culture.
Start your adventure in Utrecht by exploring its old city center. Take a stroll through the winding streets and admire the historic buildings, such as the Gothic-style Dom tower and the 14th-century St. Martin's Cathedral. Don’t forget to visit the city’s many museums, such as the Centraal Museum and the Dutch Railway Museum.
If you are looking for something a bit more active, head to the Oudegracht, a canal lined with restaurants and bars. Take a boat tour along the canal and enjoy the beautiful views of the city. Alternatively, you can take a bike ride through the surrounding countryside.
If you are traveling to Utrecht by car, you can find plenty of parking options in the city center. If you are flying in, the nearest international airport is Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS).
In short, Utrecht is an ideal destination for ending the “Through the Green Heart Road Trip”. With its stunning architecture, unique culture, and beautiful countryside, Utrecht is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
Utrecht - Netherlands - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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Through the Green Heart at a glance
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Start:
Leiden
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End:
Utrecht
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Distance:
158 km
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Stay:
2 days
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Getting there:
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS),
Eindhoven Airport (EIN)
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When to drive:
April, May, June, July, August, September
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on a picturesque journey through the Green Heart of the Netherlands, beginning in the historically rich city of Leiden and culminating in the ancient and vibrant city of Utrecht. Covering approximately 159 kilometers, this adventure is ideally spread across two to three days, offering ample time to immerse yourself in the region's breathtaking natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical landmarks.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Leiden: Celebrated for its esteemed university founded in 1575, the city's rich academic history is palpable. Explore Leiden's remarkable Hortus Botanicus, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, established in 1590, which has been a center for biodiversity and plant research for centuries.
- Alphen aan den Rijn: Home to the Archeon open-air museum, this destination offers a vivid reenactment of Dutch life from prehistoric times through the Middle Ages and beyond. Visitors can engage with history through interactive exhibits and meticulously reconstructed buildings.
- Kasteel de Haar: The largest and most luxurious castle in the Netherlands, Kasteel de Haar is a masterpiece of late 19th-century architecture. The castle's opulent interiors and expansive landscaped gardens reflect the grandeur of a bygone era and are a testament to the nation's rich aristocratic history.
- Oudewater: Steeped in history, this charming town is renowned for the Heksenwaag, a witch-weighing scale that dates back to 1482. It served as a site for fair trials during Europe's witch hunts, where those accused of witchcraft could be weighed to prove their innocence.
Best Time to Go:
The prime time for this Road Trip is during the spring, when the famous Dutch tulips are in full bloom, or during the summer months, when the weather is mild, and the lush landscapes are vibrant, offering a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities and leisurely exploration.
Potential Risks:
While the Netherlands boasts excellent Road conditions, travelers should remain vigilant on the more narrow sections of the route and be mindful of cyclists, a common sight in this bike-friendly country. It's wise to stay updated on local traffic regulations and weather forecasts to ensure a smooth journey.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The route showcases the Netherlands' commitment to environmental conservation, as the Green Heart is a designated rural area aiming to maintain green space amidst the surrounding urban regions.
- The Trip is accessible to drivers of all levels of experience, thanks to the country's well-maintained and clearly signposted Roads.
- The journey offers a perfect blend of affordability and cultural enrichment, with numerous museums, historical sites, and natural attractions to explore.
- Accommodations ranging from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxury hotels, along with a variety of dining options featuring both traditional Dutch cuisine and international fare, cater to all preferences and budgets.
A good choice for:
Indulge in the charm and splendor of the Green Heart of the Netherlands on this idyllic Road Trip. With its rich tapestry of culture, scenic landscapes, and historical landmarks, the journey from Leiden to Utrecht promises a treasure trove of experiences, breathtaking sights, and enduring memories for intrepid Roadtrippers.
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