Orange Horizons

The Hague: green city by the sea

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 07:17:00 +0200

In this episode of Orange Horizons, we explore The Hague, a city often associated with beaches, monuments and elegant shopping streets — yet one that offers far more beneath the surface.

Known internationally as the political capital of the Netherlands and a global center for international law, The Hague is home to the Dutch government and institutions such as the Binnenhof and the Peace Palace. But beyond politics and diplomacy, the city reveals a layered character shaped by culture, green spaces and its unique coastal location.

From historic squares and world-class museums to leafy parks and the lively beach district of Scheveningen, The Hague combines urban life with nature in a way few European cities do. Visitors can move easily from the political heart of the country to quiet forests, royal palaces and expansive dunes along the North Sea.

In this episode, we walk through the city’s political center, explore its cultural highlights, and discover why The Hague is often described as the “green city by the sea.” We also share practical tips for travelers who want to experience both the vibrant city center and the relaxed atmosphere of the coast.

A perfect episode for travelers who want to look beyond the obvious and discover a city where diplomacy, culture and seaside life come together.

Orange Horizons is the official podcast by Netherlands Board of Tourism & Conventions, taking you beyond the guidebooks. Every two weeks we bring you a new episode, in which we explore inspiring stories and locations from the heart of Dutch culture, innovation and sustainability. From groundbreaking architecture to local art, design, and nature experiences. Discover what makes the Netherlands truly unique, and let us inspire your next unforgettable journey to our country.

Tulip Season in the Netherlands

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 08:45:00 +0200

Tulip season is one of the most iconic periods in the Netherlands. From late March to mid-May, large parts of the country transform into geometric fields of red, yellow, pink and purple.

In this episode of Orange Horizons, we explore where the tulip comes from, why it became such a powerful Dutch symbol, and what you can actually see and experience during the bloom.

We look at:

The history of the tulip and the story of Tulip Mania
The famous bulb region between Haarlem and Leiden
Keukenhof and its seven million flower bulbs
The vast fields of the Noordoostpolder and the Kop van Noord-Holland
The global flower trade at Royal FloraHolland in Aalsmeer

You’ll also hear practical tips on when to visit, how to explore the fields responsibly, and how to experience the landscape without damaging working farmland.

Whether you’re planning a spring trip or simply curious about one of the Netherlands’ most recognizable traditions, this episode gives you the essential background — and the best places to go.

Spring in the Netherlands

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 08:08:00 +0100

Spring is the season when the Netherlands truly comes alive. As tulip fields burst into colour and café terraces fill with people, cities and countryside shift into a lighter, more open rhythm.

In this episode of Orange Horizons, we explore what makes Dutch spring so distinctive. From the world-famous flower bulb region and the gardens of Keukenhof to national celebrations like King’s Day, spring brings together nature, culture and everyday life in a uniquely Dutch way.

We also look beyond the tulips. Music festivals such as Paaspop mark the start of the outdoor season, while parks, national landscapes and coastal areas invite long walks and bike rides. Families visit farms and play forests, photographers chase blossom at sunrise, and wildlife slowly reappears across the country.

Whether you’re planning a spring trip to the Netherlands or simply curious about the season, this episode offers practical tips, cultural context and ideas for experiencing tulip season, Dutch festivals and nature in bloom.

A story of colour, fresh air and celebration, as the Netherlands steps into spring.

Middelburg: a city full of history

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 08:12:00 +0100

In this episode of Orange Horizons, we travel to Middelburg, the capital of Zeeland a city that once played a significant role in the Dutch maritime era, yet today feels calm, intimate and unhurried.

Walking through its narrow alleys and along quiet canals, we trace the layers of a place shaped by global trade, shifting tides and careful restoration. From the Gothic Town Hall on the Markt to the Abbey complex and the Lange Jan tower, Middelburg reveals a history that is present but never overpowering.

Beyond the historic centre, green ramparts, nearby beaches and the vast openness of Zeeland show how closely the city remains connected to nature. Water is never far away - and neither is the horizon.

This episode explores how Middelburg balances past and present, resilience and restraint, and why it rewards those who take the time to look a little closer.

Dutch Water Defence Lines: The Netherlands’ Hidden UNESCO Landscape

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 06:30:00 +0100

Water built the Netherlands. But for centuries, it also protected it.

In this episode of Orange Horizons, we explore the Dutch Water Defence Lines. A unique UNESCO World Heritage landscape of forts and deliberately flooded fields.

Discover how the Dutch turned water into a strategic weapon, and how this quiet system still shapes the countryside around Utrecht, Amsterdam and Naarden today.

From Fort bij Vegten to the star-shaped town of Naarden, this episode connects history, landscape and travel. Including practical tips for visiting by bike and combining your trip with nearby cities.

Listen now and uncover one of the Netherlands’ most unexpected stories.

Dutch Masters: Art That Still Shapes the Netherlands

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 06:30:00 +0100

The Dutch Masters are known all over the world. But did you know their stories are deeply rooted in everyday Dutch life?

In this episode of Orange Horizons, we explore how artists like Rembrandt, Vermeer and Van Gogh were shaped by the streets, light and cities of the Netherlands. And we will show you where you can still experience their legacy today. From world-class museums to walkable city districts.

This episode connects art, travel and place. Not as history, but as a journey you can still make yourself.

Listen now and discover how Dutch art continues to shape the Netherlands.

Rotterdam: Architecture, Food and a City That Never Stands Still

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 06:15:00 +0100

Rotterdam doesn’t try to charm you at first glance. It challenges you.
Wide streets. Bold architecture. A skyline that feels almost un-Dutch.

In this episode of Orange Horizons, we explore Rotterdam. A city rebuilt after the Second World War with confidence and creativity. From the iconic Markthal and the playful Cube Houses to the elegant Erasmus Bridge and the working harbor, Rotterdam is a place where architecture tells stories and cultures meet.

You’ll discover why this city is best explored on foot, how the port still defines daily life, and where to slow down for great food in neighborhoods like Katendrecht and Kop van Zuid. We’ll also share practical tips to help you plan your visit and experience Rotterdam like a local.

It the perfect episode for travelers looking for modern cities, architecture, food culture and lesser-known urban experiences in the Netherlands.

👉 For more inspiration and travel tips, visit holland.com.

The 5 Dutch Wadden Islands: Space, Silence, Nature

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 06:15:00 +0100

Twice a day, the sea retreats. And twice a day, it returns... In between, an extraordinary world appears: wide, silent and alive.

In this episode of Orange Horizons we head to the north of the Netherlands to explore the Wadden Islands - a UNESCO World Heritage site shaped by tides, silence and endless horizons.

We visit the five inhabited islands: Texel, Vlieland, Terschelling, Ameland and Schiermonnikoog. Each has its own character - from Texel's rolling dunes and nature reserves to Schiermonnikoog's serene national park, where silence takes over. Along the way, we experience what makes the islands truly unique: walking across mudflats, cycling along coastal paths and spotting millions of migratory birds that make the Wadden Sea one of Europe's most important natural areas.

And at the end of the episode, we share four practical tips that you won't want to miss when visiting the Dutch Wadden Islands: how to get there, why cycling is the best way to explore, what to pack for changing weather and why guided tours are a must for mudflat walks.

Discover more about the Wadden Islands? Head over to our website for more tips and stories! 👉 Visit: holland.com

Credits:

Production: Break The Wire Concepts for the Netherlands Board of Tourism & Conventions
Visual design: Le Bureau de L’eau
Research & Direction: Elmar Rekers & Ger de Gram

Winter in the Netherlands: Ice Skating, 'Snert' & Cosy Culture

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 06:00:00 +0100

You might think winter is the off-season in the Netherlands. But actually, it's a time when the country slows down, giving you the chance to discover it in a totally new way.

In this episode of Orange Horizons, we explore why the colder months might just be the best time to visit. It’s a season of quiet beauty, frosty mornings, and local traditions that shine brightest when the days are short.

From the low mist over the fields in Drenthe to the festive lights in Maastricht, we take you on a journey through the Dutch winter. Discover the national obsession with natural ice, learn what really defines 'gezelligheid', and find out why museums like the Rijksmuseum are best visited in January.

In this episode, you will discover:

The Winter Light: Why photographers love the misty mornings at the Veluwezoom and the dunes of Schoorl.
Ice Skating: The Dutch hope for a 'proper freeze', skating on canals in Giethoorn, and the best city rinks.
Comfort Food: All about 'snert' (pea soup), 'stamppot', and fluffy 'poffertjes' at Christmas markets.
Culture without Crowds: Enjoying the old masters in peace in Delft, Haarlem, and Amsterdam.

Curious to discover more? Head over to our website for more tips and stories to plan your winter getaway! 👉 Visit: holland.com

Credits:

Production: Break The Wire Concepts for the Netherlands Board of Tourism & Conventions
Visual design: Le Bureau de L’eau
Research & Direction: Elmar Rekers & Ger de Gram

New Dutch Food: A Tasting Tour from Eierbal to Dutch Wine

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 06:00:00 +0100

The best way to understand a country is to taste it.

In this second episode of our New Dutch Food mini-series, host Alix Perry takes you on a route packed with tasty ideas you’ll definitely want to remember. Every region in the Netherlands comes with its own flavours, stories, and landscapes.

Missed the first part? No worries, you can dive in at any moment to hear how Dutch kitchens are shaping the future of food. 👉 Listen to Part 1 here

In this second episode, we travel from the wide skies of the North to the Burgundian South, uncovering hidden gems along the way. You’ll learn why a fried egg snack is cultural heritage in Groningen, taste the salty produce of the Zeeland coast, and discover that yes - the Netherlands has its own thriving wine culture.

In this episode, you will discover:

The North: Why the 'Eierbal' creates internet drama in Groningen and how Westerzwam grows mushrooms on coffee grounds.
The East: Tasting Dutch wine at Vineyard Hof van Twente and exploring food forests with De Nieuwe Winkel.
The Green Heart: Dining inside a greenhouse at De Stadsjochies in Utrecht.
The Coast: A local twist on soy sauce in Rotterdam and fresh seafood straight from the North Sea in Zeeland.
The South: The comfort of Brabant's 'worstenbroodjes' and sipping wine overlooking the Limburg hills.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro: Tasting the Netherlands
01:30 The North: Eierballen & Circular Mushrooms
03:50 The East: Vineyards & Food Forests
06:15 The Green Heart: Greenhouse Dining
08:30 The Coast: Soy Sauce & Zeeland Seafood
10:45 The South: Worstenbroodjes & Limburg Wine
12:15 Outro & Travel Tips

Ready to taste the Netherlands? If these places sparked your curiosity, head over to our website for more tips and inspiration for your own culinary adventure. 👉 Plan your trip: holland.com/food

Credits:

Host: Alix Perry
Production: Break The Wire Concepts for the Netherlands Board of Tourism & Conventions
Visual design: Le Bureau de L’eau
Research & Direction: Elmar Rekers & Ger de Gram

New Dutch Food: Innovation Meets Sustainability

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 11:46:00 +0100

In this episode of Orange Horizons, we explore the rise of New Dutch Food. A movement that blends innovation, sustainability, and creativity into every bite.

Join host Alix Perry as we travel from smart farms and seaweed kitchens to multicultural food markets, discovering how the Netherlands is reinventing its culinary identity. You'll hear from Michelin-starred chefs, farmers, and innovators how are reshaping the menu for a sustainable tomorrow.

Key themes in this episode

How innovation drives sustainable agriculture and food production.
The rise of food forests and circular restaurants.
Seaweed as the new sustainable superfood.
Diversity and cultural influences shaping the Dutch kitchen.
How the Netherlands became a test lab for the future of food.

Hungry for more?
Visit holland.com/food for culinary travel tips, local experiences, and the best places to literally taste the future.

Utrecht: Canals, Culture & Hidden Corners

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 06:30:00 +0100

In this episode of Orange Horizons, we take you to the heart of the Netherlands: Utrecht.
You’ll hear about:

Canoeing and paddleboarding through the city’s medieval canals
Hidden food favorites like Kimmade and Le Clochard
Local neighborhoods including Wittevrouwen and Rotsoord
Cultural gems like the Louis Hartlooper Complex and the Miffy Museum
Four insider tips to help you experience Utrecht like a local

Practical tips:

Rent a bike or walk - Utrecht is compact and perfect for slow exploration.
Visit early or late in the day to enjoy the canals at their calmest.
Bring a picnic to Wilhelminapark or Julianapark.
Stay near the Museum Quarter or Wittevrouwen for an authentic experience.

For more travel inspiration and stories, visit holland.com.

The 5 Best Amusement Parks to Visit in the Netherlands

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 06:30:00 +0100

Looking for a day full of adventure, imagination, and pure fun? The Netherlands might just surprise you. From world-famous fairy tales to water slides and wild west adventures, Dutch theme parks offer something for everyone.

In this episode of Orange Horizons, we’ll take you on a ride through five of the best amusement parks in the Netherlands, from the magical Efteling to coastal classics like Duinrell. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or traveling with kids, these parks combine creativity, culture, and storytelling in a truly Dutch way.

We'll travel to:
The Efteling: a fairytale world blending fantasy and folklore
Duinrell: coastal fun and one of Europe’s biggest indoor waterparks
Toverland: mythical lands and all-weather adventure
Slagharen: the Wild West meets Dutch charm
Drievliet: family-friendly rides near The Hague

👉 For full park details, travel tips, and booking info, visit holland.com.

Dutch Heritage: A Journey Through the Netherlands’ Timeless Treasures

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0200

From windmills and waterways to cheese markets and tulip fields, Dutch heritage tells a story of resilience, creativity, and trade.

In this episode of Orange Horizons, we explore how centuries of innovation and artistry shaped the Netherlands into what it is today. Discover world-famous sites like Kinderdijk, De Beemster, and Amsterdam’s canal houses, and meet the modern creators continuing that legacy through art, design, and music.

In this episode:
• How the Dutch mastered water and wind to shape their land
• Why cheese, tulips, and trade became global symbols of Dutch identity
• The timeless link between creativity, from Rembrandt to Tiësto
• Where to experience Dutch heritage in real life

For more informatie and inspiration: visit holland.com/dutchheritage

Autumn in the Netherlands: Cozy towns and golden landscapes

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 14:30:00 +0200

Autumn transforms the Netherlands into a golden wonderland. Forests glow in shades of red, orange and yellow, historic towns feel extra cozy, and local cuisine brings seasonal flavors to the table. In this episode of Orange Horizons, we explore the best ways to enjoy fall in the Netherlands.

In the next few minutes you'll discover:

The most beautiful forests, parks and nature reserves
Wildlife highlights: from rutting deer to migrating birds
Charming cities like Middelburg and Deventer at their seasonal best
Dutch fall flavors, from pumpkin soups to local wines
Sanne van Gemerden’s expert tips to make your nature walks even more special

Sanne’s Autumn Tips

Tip 1: Elevate your senses when walking in nature, especially in Dwingelderveld National Park (Drenthe). Take in sights, sounds and scents for a full experience.
Tip 2: Change your walking pace and talk less while strolling. It helps you notice more and enjoy a deeper connection to the environment.
Tip 3: Visit Drents-Friese Wold National Park to see the unique Sayaguesa cattle, a rare breed living freely in one of the Netherlands’ largest forests.

Want more inspiration for your trip to the Netherlands? Head over to Holland.com, subscribe to Orange Horizons, and don’t forget to leave us a five-star review if you enjoyed this episode!

Beyond Amsterdam: Why Almere Is the Day Trip You Didn’t Expect

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 08:30:00 +0200

Looking for the best day trips from Amsterdam? Just 20 minutes away by train, Almere is a young Dutch city built on reclaimed land. It’s full of modern architecture, wide sandy beaches, a 42 km coastline, nature reserves and innovative neighborhoods. Perfect for travelers who want to see more of the Netherlands beyond Amsterdam.

Want more travel stories and inspiration for your trip to the Netherlands? Head over to holland.com, subscribe to Orange Horizons, and don’t forget to leave us a five-star review if you enjoyed this episode!

Hiking in the Netherlands: Trails, Tips & Sustainable Adventures

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 06:30:00 +0200

The Netherlands reveals itself as an unexpectedly diverse landscape for hiking enthusiasts, combining natural beauty with sustainable travel options. While the country may be famous for its flatness, the terrain offers a surprising variety: from tranquil forests and shifting dunes to open heathlands and winding riverside paths.

In this episode of Orange Horizons, we’re lacing up our boots to explore some of the best hiking routes the Netherlands has to offer. You’ll hear about the legendary Pieterpad, a 500-kilometre trail stretching from Groningen to Maastricht, as well as the wild beauty of the Hoge Veluwe National Park with its free white bicycles. We’ll take you to the UNESCO-protected Wadden Sea for a mudflat walk like no other, and show you how public transport and a smart junction-based trail network make hiking here both easy and eco-friendly.

We’ll also share a sample two-day itinerary combining forests and tidal flats, plus practical tips to make your trip lighter on the planet.

Speaking of which, here are the practical tips mentioned in this episode:

Opt for eco-friendly accommodations like energy-neutral B&Bs, yurts, and boat stays
Pack light and use reusable bottles & containers
Always stick to marked paths and follow “leave no trace” principles
Check seasonal wildlife rules before visiting
Use the numbered junction walking network for flexible routes
Book mudflat walks well in advance

This episode was narrated using AI technology, and produced by Break The Wire Concepts on behalf of the Netherlands Board of Tourism and Conventions.

🔗 More hiking inspiration and 20+ national parks on: holland.com/parks
📩 Questions or tips? redactie@holland.com
📢 Like what you hear? Subscribe and share Orange Horizons with your fellow explorers!

Hidden Beaches & Coastal Routes: The Dutch Coastline Uncovered

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 06:30:00 +0200

A fresh sea breeze. Sand between your toes. And a 610 km coastline filled with surprises.

In this fourth episode of Orange Horizons, we take you on a journey along the Dutch coast: from the quiet beauty of the Wadden Islands to the lively shores of Scheveningen and Zeeland. Expect nature reserves, bike-friendly beach towns, UNESCO-protected islands and unexpected seaside culture.

You’ll hear practical tips, local secrets, and travel inspiration to make the most of your next coastal escape. Whether you're into surfing, seal-spotting, cycling or simply doing nothing at all - the Dutch coast delivers.

Here are the beach tips mentioned in this episode:

🚲 Book your bike in advance during high season - e-bikes make even long stretches feel easy.
🧥 Pack layers, even in summer - a windproof jacket can be a lifesaver by the sea.
🏡 Reserve accommodation early on the Wadden Islands - they’re popular, peaceful, and fill up fast.
🌿 Combine coast and nature - for example with walks or cycling through nearby parks like Meijendel or South-Kennemerland.

This episode was narrated using AI technology, with all other aspects op production handled by Break the Wire Concepts.

🔗 Discover more: holland.com
📩 Questions or tips? redactie@holland.com
📢 Like what you hear? Subscribe and share Orange Horizons with your fellow explorers!

The Slow Magic of a Dutch Summer

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 06:30:00 +0200

Think the Netherlands isn’t made for summer holidays? Think again. In this third episode of Orange Horizons, we take you on a laid-back journey through the Dutch summer, where long evenings, quiet landscapes, and car-free adventures create space to breathe.

Join us as we explore over 35,000 km of cycling paths, discover nature stays deep in the forest, and drift through peaceful waterways. From iced mint tea in Zeeland to greenhouse glamping in Drenthe, this is travel that’s light on impact, but rich in experience.

Fun fact: this episode is fully narrated using AI technology! Because here in the Netherlands, we like to try new things every now and then. Even though human voices will remain the norm for Orange Horizons.

Ready to slow down?

🔗 Explore more sustainable ideas: holland.com
📩 Feedback or questions? Reach out via redactie@holland.com
📢 And don’t forget to subscribe and share Orange Horizons!

6 Architectural Hotspots You Can't Miss in the Netherlands

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 11:00:00 +0200

Want to explore the Netherlands through its most iconic and surprising buildings? In this second episode of Orange Horizons, we travel across the country to visit six architectural hotspots, each telling its own story through bold design, smart reuse or centuries-old heritage.

From the glass-and-marble underground wing of Paleis Het Loo to the vibrant ceiling of Rotterdam’s Markthal, this design-focused itinerary takes you from north to south, by train. Discover how New Dutch Architecture blends history with innovation, and why these places should be on your next travel list.

In this episode, you'll visit:

The lush Catharijnesingel in Utrecht
Cultural landmark Forum Groningen
Revamped royal icon Paleis Het Loo
The creative powerhouse LocHal in Tilburg
The emotionally powerful National Holocaust Museum in Amsterdam
The futuristic and flavorful Markthal in Rotterdam

Tune in for surprising travel ideas, design insights and practical inspiration for your next trip.

🔗 Learn more: holland.com/architecture
📩 Feedback & contact: redactie@holland.com

Innovations in Dutch Architecture: Greener Cities by Design

Wed, 28 May 2025 14:38:00 +0200

From a floating farm in Rotterdam to circular office buildings made entirely from reclaimed materials, the Netherlands is rethinking the way we design, build, and live. In this first episode of Orange Horizons, join us as we travel across the country to explore groundbreaking innovations in Dutch architecture. Discover how local pioneers are transforming our built environment using biobased materials like hemp and flax, smart reuse of old buildings, and cutting-edge wood construction.

Along the way, we’ll visit places like Enschede’s revamped Langezijds building, Amsterdam’s wooden high-rise HAUT, and an eco-village in rural North Brabant where not a single drop of water or watt of energy goes to waste.

Ready to see how a small country is making a big impact in sustainable design? Press play, and don’t forget to follow for part two.

🔗 Learn more: holland.com/architecture
📩 Feedback & contact: redactie@holland.com