Through the Polders Scenic Drive

Take a journey through the stunning Polders Scenic Drive! Starting in the city of Lelystad in the Netherlands, this 130 km route takes you through the towns of Kampen and Emmeloord, providing you with a unique experience and some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. The best time of the year to drive this route is during the spring or summer, when the flowers and trees are in full bloom. The roads along the route are mostly in excellent condition, although they can be quite narrow in some places. It will take you around 1 day to complete the drive, so make sure you plan ahead and take your time to enjoy the sights. This is a road trip for everyone, no matter your budget, and you are sure to make lasting memories and have an unforgettable experience.

Lelystad is a small city located in the province of Flevoland in the Netherlands. It is the perfect starting point for the road trip named "Through the Polders Scenic Drive". The city is known for its picturesque canals, historic windmills, and traditional Dutch architecture. Visitors can explore the Oostvaardersplassen Nature Reserve, an important bird sanctuary, or take a boat ride on the Ijsselmeer. The Nieuw Land Erfgoedcentrum is a great place to learn about Lelystad’s history and to see the iconic windmills. The nearby Aviodrome Aviation Museum is also worth a visit. The closest international airport to Lelystad is Schiphol Airport (AMS) located in Amsterdam. Car rental services are available at the airport, making it easy to travel around Lelystad and the surrounding area. From here, visitors can take the scenic drive through the polders, stopping at small towns and villages along the way. This is a great way to experience the Dutch countryside and its many attractions. Lelystad is a great starting point for the road trip "Through the Polders Scenic Drive". From its picturesque canals to its historic windmills, the city has something for everyone. The nearby Schiphol Airport (AMS) and car rental services make it easy to explore the area. Whether you are looking for a relaxing day in the countryside or an exciting adventure, Lelystad is the perfect place to begin your journey.

Begin your road trip in Lelystad, Netherlands and explore the charming towns of Dronten and Kampen! This 34 km journey is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience. As you drive, take in the views of the countryside and be sure to take note of the historical sites and scenic roads. In Dronten, make sure to visit the Dronten Museum, where you can learn about the town's history and culture. The museum is also home to a variety of art and artifacts from the region. If you're looking for a more active experience, you can also explore the town's many parks and nature trails. Your journey continues to Kampen, a picturesque city with a rich history and plenty of attractions. Stroll through the old city center and admire the historic buildings, or take a walk along the river IJssel and enjoy the beautiful nature. You can also visit the Kampen Castle, built in the 13th century, and explore the nearby Kampen Zoo. This journey is sure to be an unforgettable experience. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

Start your road trip in Kampen, Netherlands and take a scenic drive along the 28 km route to Schokland. The drive will take you less than an hour, and you will pass through Nagele. Along the way, you will be treated to picturesque views as you drive along narrow sections of the road. Be sure to keep an eye out for historical sites and other attractions. When you arrive in Schokland, you will be rewarded with a variety of activities and attractions to explore. There are plenty of accommodation options, restaurants, and campsites to choose from. For more information about attractions and other activities, take a look at the itinerary for this stage of the road trip. With a little bit of planning and some luck, you will have a great time on this road trip!

Embark on an amazing road trip from Schokland, Netherlands to Emmeloord, a journey of only 24 km and a driving time of fewer than 1 hour! On this scenic route, you will pass through Marknesse, a charming town with plenty of attractions to explore. From the historic windmill to the cozy cafes, there is something for everyone! As you drive, take in the beautiful countryside and keep an eye out for narrow sections of the road. Once you arrive in Emmeloord, you can explore the harbor and visit the picturesque churches. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Get ready to enjoy a memorable road trip!

Take a road trip from Emmeloord to Urk, Netherlands and explore the beautiful countryside! This 12 km journey will take you less than an hour, and it will be an unforgettable experience. Along the way, you will be able to admire the stunning landscapes and historical sites, and you will be able to enjoy the narrow sections of the road. Make sure to take your time and enjoy the journey! Once you arrive in Urk, you should visit the Urker Harbour, the Urk Museum and the Urk Lighthouse. The harbour is a vibrant place with lots of shops, restaurants and cafés, while the museum offers a great insight into the history of the city. The lighthouse is a great place to get a stunning view of the city and the surrounding area. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a great trip!

Start your road trip in Urk, Netherlands, a charming fishing village that is full of history and culture. From there, you'll drive through Swifterbant, a small rural village with plenty of scenic roads to explore. Then you'll reach Lelystad, a city with plenty of attractions to offer. With a distance of 31km and a driving time of fewer than one hour, this is a great stage of a larger tour. As you drive, be sure to take in the beautiful scenery and pay attention to the road. In Urk, be sure to visit the quaint fishing harbor and take a stroll along the waterfront. In Swifterbant, make sure to explore the picturesque countryside and visit the historic windmill. Finally, in Lelystad, you can spend some time at the beach and explore the nearby nature reserve. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the Itinerary of this stage.

Lelystad is a city located in the Netherlands, at the end of the "Through the Polders Scenic Drive" road trip. It is the capital of the Flevoland province and it is situated close to the Ijsselmeer lake, one of the biggest lakes in the country. Lelystad has a great variety of attractions and activities to offer to its visitors. Here, you can find the Bataviawerf, an open-air museum that reconstructs the life of Dutch sailors during the 17th century. The Bataviawerf is a great place to learn about Dutch maritime culture and take a ride on a real replica of a 17th century ship. If you are looking for a more modern experience, the Aviodrome Museum is the place to go. It features a great collection of airplanes and helicopters and allows visitors to explore them up close. Additionally, you can take a flight simulator experience and feel what it is like to fly an aircraft. For nature lovers, Lelystad has a great variety of parks and nature reserves. The Oostvaardersplassen Nature Reserve is a great spot to observe birds and other wildlife, while the Lepelaarsplassen Nature Reserve offers visitors the chance to observe a wide variety of plant life. Lelystad is located near the Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (IATA Code: AMS), one of the busiest airports in Europe. From here, travelers can take a train to the city and explore its many attractions. Lelystad is the perfect destination for a road trip, as it offers a great variety of activities and attractions for all types of travelers. From historical sites to modern museums and nature reserves, Lelystad promises a great time for all. With its convenient location near the Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, Lelystad is the perfect end to the "Through the Polders Scenic Drive" road trip.

Before you set off

The Polders Scenic Drive is an enchanting 130 km route that begins in Lelystad, the Netherlands, and winds through the reclaimed land known as polders, offering a glimpse into the country's mastery of water management. The journey takes you past historical towns, including Kampen and Emmeloord, and offers panoramic views of the Dutch countryside's iconic flat landscapes.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Lelystad: Not only the starting point but also home to the Aviodrome aviation museum and the Batavia Shipyard where a 17th-century ship replica is docked.
• Kampen: This city boasts one of the best-preserved old town centers in the country, complete with ancient city gates and a rich history tied to the Hanseatic League.
• Emmeloord: Amidst its pastoral allure, Emmeloord is famous for the Poldertoren, an impressive tower that once served as a water storage facility and now stands as a symbol of the region's history of land reclamation.

Best Time to Go:

The optimal times to embark on this Road Trip are spring, when the famed tulip fields are in full bloom, or summer, to enjoy extended daylight hours and vibrant green landscapes.

Potential Risks:

• Some rural paths may be narrow and demand attentive driving.
• The Netherlands is known for its mercurial weather, which can affect visibility and Road conditions; staying updated on forecasts is advisable.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

• Covering the distance in a leisurely day allows for ample exploration and appreciation of the sights.
• The drive is cost-effective, offering experiences that cater to various budgets, from free outdoor marvels to affordable museum visits.
• Pre-Trip planning can enhance the journey, allowing travelers to discover hidden gems and local events.

A good choice for:

The Polders Scenic Drive is an immersive way to experience the Netherlands' unique blend of natural splendor and cultural depth. This route offers a narrative of Dutch ingenuity, with the ever-present backdrop of windmills, dykes, and meticulously engineered waterways telling the story of a nation built on reclaimed land.