Looking for a tour that gives you a quintessential taste of Europe? Look no further than Collette’s tour of the Netherlands, Belgium and France. This small group Explorations tour is a gateway to some of Europe’s iconic highlights — the captivating canals of Amsterdam and the timeless allure of Paris are, of course, on the agenda. But beyond these must-see destinations lie the hidden treasures of this journey: a series of cultural jaunts that reveal the heart and soul of the region. It’s in these immersive experiences that the real magic happens, where history, artistry, and tradition come alive in unexpected and meaningful ways.

Royal Delft: An Art Form Through the Ages

During a stay in the Netherlands, opt into a day trip to Royal Delft, a small town renowned for its distinctive ceramic artistry dating back to the 17th century. Delft Blue pottery rose to prominence during the Dutch Golden Age, a period of economic and cultural flourishing. Inspired by Chinese porcelain imported by the Dutch East India Company, artisans in Delft developed their own signature style, characterized by intricate hand-painted motifs in shades of cobalt blue.

The Royal Delft factory, established in 1653, is the sole remaining producer of this iconic pottery from that era. Step inside and uncover the painstaking process behind each piece, from molding and firing to the meticulous hand-painting that makes every plate, vase, and tile a work of art. History buffs will appreciate how Delft pottery evolved over the centuries, reflecting shifts in trade, taste, and artistry. But it’s not just about looking; here, you can roll up your sleeves and paint your own Delft porcelain tile, connecting personally to a centuries-old tradition.

Beyond the ceramics, the town of Delft itself feels like a snapshot of history. As you walk the cobblestone streets and alongside historic canals, it’s easy to see how the town inspired some of Vermeer’s most famous works. It’s not just a visit — it’s a step into a painting.

The Windmills of Kinderdijk

The windmills of Kinderdijk are more than just a picturesque view; they’re a testament to the Dutch people’s ingenuity in taming the forces of nature. Dating back to the mid-18th century, these remarkable windmills were engineered to manage water levels in a region prone to flooding. Working in tandem with an intricate network of dykes and canals, the mills prevented the low-lying land from succumbing to rising waters — a practice that safeguarded communities and farmland alike.

Today, Kinderdijk is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, a living reminder of a centuries-long struggle against the sea. Visitors are invited to explore this engineering marvel firsthand. A boat ride along the tranquil canals provides a unique vantage point of these Dutch windmills standing like sentinels of history. For a more immersive experience, step into a working windmill and witness the mechanisms that helped sustain life in this wetland region, or cycle through the open countryside, guided by a local who can share stories of the land's past and present.

The Route du Champagne: Savoring France’s Heritage

Leaving the Netherlands, travel south through Belgium and into the rolling hills and sprawling vineyards of France’s Route du Champagne. This region is the birthplace of sparkling wine and a testament to craftsmanship honed over centuries. Champagne, with its distinctive bubbles and complex flavors, owes its existence to meticulous methods passed down through generations.

A visit to a traditional maison du champagne offers insight into this intricate process, from harvesting the grapes to the delicate art of fermentation and aging. When you get to the tasting, enjoy it with a palette refined by a new understanding of the labor and legacy that go into every glass.

Small Groups, Big Adventures

This journey through the Netherlands, Belgium, and France is a celebration of history — not just the monumental kind, but the everyday ingenuity, artistry, and passion that have shaped these cultures. From the practical brilliance of Dutch windmills to the artistic finesse of Royal Delft and the patient craftsmanship of French champagne, each stop on this small group tour offers a deeper understanding of the past and its connection to the present.

With Collette, it’s not about rushing from sight to sight. It’s about peeling back the layers of history, savoring the stories that make these places unique, and bringing a bit of their spirit home with you.

Learn more about A Journey through the Netherlands, Belgium & France.