3 inspiring routes for (mini) road trips with an electric car

Oh, how we're looking forward to another road trip! In our own country, but in the meantime, we're dreaming of touring Europe this summer. That's why, in this new road trip guide, I'm sharing tons of tips with Peugeot on how to create the perfect road trip with your electric car. What to look out for and what's useful to know? You can read all about it in this article. If you ask me, the anticipation is half the fun! That's why I'm also sharing some fun ideas for road trips with an electric car. These are destinations and routes that are on my own wish list to take this year, both in the Netherlands and abroad.

Wow, what a list! @gaultmillaunederland announced the awards and points for 2026 today. So many great new names and climbers, proud of the Dutch culinary scene, and enough inspiration to dine out all year long ✌🏼

👀Which restaurant are you very curious about?

GAULT & MILLAU AWARDS

Bistronome of the year
Madeleine | Utrecht @madeleine_utrecht

Mediterranean restaurant of the year
Elea | The Hague @restaurantelea

Asian restaurant of the year
Kaa Lun Palace | The Hague @kaalun_palace

Terrace of the year
The Coach House | Bennekom @hetkoetshuisbennekom

Vegetable restaurant of the year
Tryptique | Wateringen @restauranttriptyque

Craftsman of the Year
Dick Middelweerd
Restaurant De Treeswijkhoeve | Waalre @restaurant.de.treeswijkhoeve

New Chef on the Block
Koen van Weer
De Cuijt | Mierlo @restaurantdecuijt

Prize-Fun of the Year
Aragosta | Leeuwarden @bistro.aragosta

Discovery of the year
Shun | Medemblik @restaurant_shun

Cocktail bar of the year
Fitz's Bar | Amsterdam @fitzsbaramsterdam

Wine list of the year
Azurite | Delft @restaurant.azurite

Sommelier of the Year
Antonello Nicastri @antonellonic_somm
Flore | Amsterdam @restaurant.flore

Notable Newcomer of the Year
Wild Studio | Hoog Soeren @wildatelier.nl

Best Dutch Chef Abroad
Marcel Koolen
7132 Silver | Counterfeit | Switzerland @mmmarcel.koolen

Lifetime Achievement Award
Cees Helder

Host of the year
Bjorn van Aalst | SAAM | Amstelveen @saamrestaurant

Young Chef of the Year
Sofiane Bons @bonssofiane
Yulia | Rotterdam @restaurantjoelia

Chef of the year
Hans van Wolde @hvw043
Brut172 | Reijmerstok @brut_172

CONGRATULATIONS!! 🍴

180 7

Open post by yourlbb with ID 17943526653110147

𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗲𝘀𝗲 🫕 𝗳𝗼𝗻𝗱𝘂𝗲

Thinking back of amazing days in the snow, I'm in the mood for cheese fondue!

I call it comfort food at its finest, and I also love making fresh cheese fondue at home this winter (sometimes even better than eating out ✌🏼☺️).

𝗠𝘆 𝗳𝗮𝘃𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗻𝗱𝘂𝗲 𝘀𝗽𝗼𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺:
📍 @badhuis.amsterdam (East)
Every Thursday is fondue night. For €26 pp you dig into a pot of cheese fondue with unlimited sourdough bread, crudités and vegetables. Good vibes included!

📍 @smelt.amsterdam (City Center)
Always a good idea. The cheeses come from De Kaaskamer, so yes: this is next level. Perfect if you love to mix & match.

📍 @cafe_bern (City Centre)
Here they serve the best Classic Gruyère cheese fondue. No fuss, just great flavour. This is cheese fondue exactly how it's meant to be.

𝗡𝗲𝘅𝘁-𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗻𝗱𝘂𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗻𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻:
📍 @fromagerie_kef (City Centre, North & East)
Amsterdam's go-to cheese specialist. From fondue cheeses to perfect wine pairings — and yes, tasting is encouraged.

📍 @fromagerielamuse (South)
Cheese fondue kits for at home plus several recipes to make yourself. Which one will you try first?

📍 @dekaaskameramsterdam (City Centre)
Swiss fondue, Dutch cheese fondue or ready-made options — you'll always leave with everything you need for the ultimate cozy night in.

On 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸.𝗺𝗲 you'll find the complete guide with 12+ cheese fondue spots in Amsterdam.

Let's make a list like this for the rest of The Netherlands too! What's your favorite spot? 🧀

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

Follow @yourlbb & @yourlbb.amsterdam for more Amsterdam restaurant guides, travel guides & the best things to do on the weekends.
#cheesefondue #amsterdam #winter

38 5

Open post by yourlbb with ID 18071118134417315

𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲: 𝗙𝗲𝗯 𝟱, 𝟲, 𝟳 & 𝟴

From €3 tacos, a pizza battle and new hotspots to creative ceramics, vintage markets and feel-good exhibitions 🖤Amsterdam is giving us plenty of reasons to go out this weekend.

Perfect for a solo date or plans with friends.

💬 Comment WEEKEND and we'll send you the full guide with all 48 tips for this weekend in Amsterdam.

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#yourlittleblackbook #amsterdamweekendguide #weekendinamsterdam #amsterdamhotspots #whattodoamsterdam

@dehallen.amsterdam @grachtenmuseum @camino.amsterdam @glazemade @nikotin.restobar @amsterdamstreetart @klaproosamsterdam

188 27

Open post by yourlbb with ID 18057125309366663

And in my opinion this is a perfect combination - 🥰

Valentine's Day is (almost) here... and yes, I've gone through my usual long list of restaurants and compiled my favorite (new) tips for every mood. Whether you're looking for a truly romantic restaurant in Amsterdam, fancy a splurge, or are searching for great spots for daytime drinks and a snacky dinner... you'll want to save these tips!

Let me tell you something funny. I officially registered my Thai marriage in the Netherlands on February 14th 😂. And guess where I'll be on February 14th 🛺🇹🇭👀!

What are you going to do on Valentine's Day?

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

PS: Follow @yourlbb for tons of tips to make the most of your free time, from date night tips to food hotspots and travel guides. And have you spotted @yourlbb.amsterdam yet, the dedicated account for my love of Amsterdam 🫶🏼?

#valentinesday #amsterdamrestaurants #datenight #yourlbb

368 50

Open post by yourlbb with ID 18154529701430224

Amsterdam Weekend Guide: Jan 29 – Feb 1

From the city's first ever Tea Festival to Sunday Roasts, winter markets, and hot new openings — Amsterdam is serving up another packed weekend.

👉 Inspiration to enjoy together or SOLO
💬 Comment WEEKEND for the full guide with all 43 tips

✖️✖️✖️

🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#yourlittleblackbook #AmsterdamWeekendGuide #ThingstoDoAmsterdam #AmsterdamHotspots #WeekendPlans

114 27

Open post by yourlbb with ID 17987319470926969

And in addition to that, do you also have a nice garden?
This TRAVEL TIP is for anyone who wants to travel a lot in 2026 despite having a permanent job.

Save these tips, put them next to your calendar and send them to your travel bestie!

And then ask for time off as quickly as possible, before your colleagues see these tips too ;-).

Happy travels 😘

IRON 𝗟𝗔𝗡𝗚𝗘 𝗩𝗔𝗞𝗔𝗡𝗧𝗜𝗘𝗦

**Illegible text**
⟶ Taking vacation days: March 30 to April 2 & April 7 to 10
⟶ Number of vacation days required: 8
ツ Total free period: March 28 to April 12 (16 days)

**Stylish & Indigo**
⟶ Taking vacation days: April 28 to May 1, May 4 & May 6 to 8
⟶ Number of vacation days required: 8 days
ツ Total free: April 25 to May 10 (16 days)

and
⟶ Taking vacation days: December 21 to 24 & December 28 to 31
⟶ Number of vacation days required: 8
ツ Total free: December 21 to January 3, 2027 (16 days)

𝗞𝗢𝗥𝗧𝗘 𝗧𝗥𝗜𝗣𝗦

**Illegible text**
⟶ Taking vacation days: Monday March 30th to Thursday April 2nd
⟶ Vacation days required: 4
ツ Total free: March 28 to April 6 (10 days)

𝗛𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗹𝘃𝗮𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘀𝗱𝗮𝗴
⟶ Take vacation days: May 15
⟶ Number of vacation days required: 1
ツ Total free: May 14th to 17th (4 days)

Innocent
⟶ Take vacation days: May 22 or 26
⟶ Number of vacation days required: 1
ツ Totally free: May 22 to 25 or May 23 to 26 (4 days)

Follow @yourlbb for more Travel Tips.
And the extensive article about vacation days can now be found on 𝘄𝘄𝘄.𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸.𝗺𝗲

✖️✖️✖️

🖊️ @anne_de_buck
#vacationdays2026 #traveltips

54 5

Open post by yourlbb with ID 18189233734357437

**Due to poor weather, this product has been carefully selected and is in excellent condition.** 👀

The market calendar may be a bit quieter now, but luckily there's still plenty planned for January and February, including a new gem (I predict)!

Don't miss these weekend markets:
• 𝗡𝗶𝗲𝘂𝘄 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺: @cabinetamsterdam, a curated vintage design market under one roof, including snacks & coffee.
• @sundaymarket
• Museum Market
• @rotterdamseoogst
• @themakermarket

In the complete guide on Your Little Black Book, you'll find 12 weekend markets in the Netherlands, including dates and locations for January and February.

Send these tips to your market-browsing bestie!

Follow @yourlbb for more tips on restaurants, travel, hotspots & the best things to do.

✖️✖️✖️

🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#weekendmarkets #dutchtips #autumnouting #vintagemarket

117 9

Open post by yourlbb with ID 18050281481471021

IF YOU ARE READY: 𝗺𝗶𝗷𝗻 𝗳𝗮𝘃𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘁𝗲 𝗵𝗼𝘁𝘀𝗽𝗼𝘁𝘀

As a child, I went there with my parents to shop, and as a teenager and in my twenties, I went clubbing. Now, I love coming here for a weekend escape, filled with good food, great wine bars, and that typical Rotterdam down-to-earth attitude.

Rotterdam is buzzing with creativity and has a real IT-factor. In this mini-guide, I share my favorite hotspots you'll definitely want to know.

📌Book your next trip to Rotterdam.

𝗖𝗢𝗙𝗙𝗘𝗘
⦁ @parqiet_parkcafe
⦁ @dunerotterdam
⦁ @wollyaandewaterkant
⦁ @nice.neighbourhood

**Illegible**
⦁ @morganandmees
⦁ @hotelame
⦁ @roommate_bruno
⦁ @thejameshotelrotterdam

𝗡𝗘𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗕𝗢𝗨𝗥𝗛𝗢𝗢𝗗𝗦
⦁ North
⦁ Katendrecht
⦁ Dijkzigt (Museum Park)
⦁ Shipping Quarter

I
⦁ Take the Water Taxi
⦁ @boijmans
⦁ Walk & unwind at the Kralingse Plas
⦁ @nlfotomuseum
⦁ Visit @stationbergweg

**
⦁ @tresrotterdam
⦁ @barbertarotterdam
⦁ @hinoki_rotterdam
⦁ @barbistroloevetdie
⦁ @oxrotterdam
⦁ @restaurant_rotonde
⦁ on my to-visit list, the new @lioncitybistro

𝗗𝗥𝗜𝗡𝗞𝗦
⦁ @walsjerot_nl
⦁ @cafeverward
⦁ @spikizibar
⦁ @lenselinq

💌What's your favorite spot in Rotterdam?

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

132 12

Open post by yourlbb with ID 17964238955872059

Perhaps the last weekend with ice and snow ⛄️❄️

Are you a cocooner or do you prefer to get outdoors? In our Snowy Amsterdam Guide, I share my favorite winter tips for this weekend in the city.

Save it – because snow days like this are rare 🥰
Do you have any great winter tips for Amsterdam? I'd love to read along!

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#snow #amsterdam #winter snow in amsterdam, things to do winter in amsterdam

115 22

Open post by yourlbb with ID 18080753870466086

First of all: thank you for being here to close out 2025 <3.

2025, you were everything I hoped you would be and more. So many new memories.

I don't yet know what 2026 will bring, but last year was one for the books. Highlights included trips to China, Mexico City, Egypt, and exploring the English countryside.

Entrepreneurs probably recognize that 2025 was not an easy year.
When I started Your Little Black Book, I had one dream: not to work to stay somewhere for free in exchange for content and the pressure of a "picture perfect" experience. But to use my revenue models to book and experience those special places myself, as a guest instead of an influencer, and to give you honest tips.
After almost 15 years of entrepreneurship, I'm so happy with the balance between editorial and commercial work and that I can also say no to things that don't feel right.

At the same time, it's still special that destinations, airlines, and hotels hire me to create a customized Little Black Book for them. I have complete freedom with these campaigns, and I believe in the value of these content-based tips that truly suit your taste. And they come from me personally, not from a machine.
So thank you for your support when you see #yourlbbcollab, #pressstrip or #prinvited ;-).

This will always be my dream job, the one I created almost 15 years ago. I still do as much as possible myself. That's energizing—from both successes and failures.

Luckily, I have a small team that helps with certain sections, and this year we're going through all the tips critically. What's still truly fun, and what's not?

As a leisure expert and queen of curation, I'm so excited to take yourlittleblackbook.me to the next level. Even though being an online entrepreneur requires constant attention and doesn't always come naturally, I wouldn't want anything else.

My mission remains: making your life easier.
So you don't have to search, but can simply choose well.

So glad you were here this year. Without you, there would be no Your Little Black Book 🖤

See you in 2026!

With love,
@anne_de_buck

106 15

Open post by yourlbb with ID 18097455040867025

I have always been part of the family and have always been proud of my work. I have a nice garden in my garden 🗝️👀

Mark your calendars! Because on January 17th and 18th, Hotel Night returns to Amsterdam with a year-round event packed with health and wellness events, and of course, legendary parties you'll be talking about all year long.

I got a sneak peek at The Art of Balance theme at the luxurious Anantara Krasnapolsky and arranged a similarly special experience for you as a YLBB follower.

And in my opinion:
• overnight stay for 2 people in a luxury room on January 17, 2026
• access to the spa & wellness (subject to availability via the wellness desk)
• pre-dinner cocktail at Bar The Tailor
• fully catered dinner from the chef
• passe-partouts for the Hotel Night parties
• extensive breakfast in the Winter Garden
• participation in unique Ice Experience in Krasnapolsky Summergarden

And in Flanders:
• let us know who you would like to check in with at Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky during the Mastercard Hotel Night
• download the Mastercard Hotel Night app where you can see the complete program
• and take a look at @hotelnacht and @anantarakrasnapolsky for the latest updates and to get the fun started!

The winner will be notified on January 5th in a comment from @hotelnacht that I will share in my stories.

I'll keep my fingers crossed for you!

Love,
Anne

#hotelnacht #amsterdam #yourlbbcollab #winactie #giveaway

158 184

Open post by yourlbb with ID 17947441476081618

NEW YEAR 🥰 ~ I LOVE YOU SO MUCH!

I'll be sharing more of these kinds of diaries with you in 2026. What a month December was! 🖤 So grateful for all the special moments!

From overcoming stage fright to New York, lots of QT with my boys, and delicious food. We're closing out the year in Egypt, and it's so incredibly beautiful here ☺️.

1 'Coming home' to NY, this city continues to surprise 🗽

No fancy dinners this time, but a week full of street food, handrolls, slices, and wine bars. 🍕

3 A bizarre end to the trip and another experience richer 🫣

4 Just in time to present the Entree Award for 'best new luxury hotel'. ✨ Overcoming stage fright: CHECK!

One of the best hospitality parties of the year: the Entree Awards. Luckily, we still have the photos. 📸

6, 7, 8 Date night at the always delicious Café Caron, the newly opened Char-d (also recommended) and the snacky dinner that I had been craving for months 😅

9-night hotel preview at Anantara Krasnapolsky and the best night out in your own city. TIP: There's a fantastic giveaway coming up that you won't want to miss. 👀

Note to self: visit a hotel spa more often for the ultimate luxury experience, such as at Anantara Krasnapolsky Amsterdam.

11 Emily in Paris & Cheese Fondue 🫕. What do you think of the new season?

12 AMS rounds with lunch at De Willem & wine and pate en croute at Twee Prinsen 🍷

13 Our Christmas tradition: the World Christmas Circus in Carré 🎪

Manuel's 14th Best Idea: Everyone Had to Hand in Their Phones at Christmas 📵

15 Early Christmas with the fam, and yes I made the viral shrimp tower 🦐

16 EGYPT, here we come! 🛩️

17 Felucca & magical sunset in Luxor ☀️

Christmas gift for the whole family: checked into my dream hotel in Luxor. 🗝️

Bucket list 19: Hot Air Balloon in Luxor. 🔥

20 This is what I call alfresco dining 😍

PS: I love this age of traveling together, a big boy full of fun ideas, but still sweet and small at the same time 🥰

It's crazy to think that the year is almost over, but I'm really looking forward to 2026 and everything that's to come.

I hope you had some nice days too 🖤.

✖️✖️✖️
@anne_de_buck

153 30

Open post by yourlbb with ID 18155229598410820

Going on a road trip with an electric car: what you need to know

When you think about a road trip with an electric car, you're probably thinking about the range. It's undeniable; under ideal conditions, you can drive a maximum of about 300 km. So, if you're taking an electric car on a road trip within your own country or abroad, you'll need to factor in stops where the car can charge and you can take a break.

Do you drive a Peugeot like me or are you planning to do so? Via the My Peugeot App Or Peugeot's Free2Move app lets you plan the optimal route from fast charger to fast charger on days when you plan to cover a longer distance. My own Peugeot e-2008 SUV, for example, is already 80% full after just half an hour at the fast charger. Just enough time to grab a delicious croissant along the way, find some nice hotspots before your destination, or catch up on social media.

Handy: Peugeot's Free2Move app offers the largest selection of public charging stations in Europe. This allows you to map your route from fast charger to fast charger and create various rest stops, which are important when driving long distances. Keep in mind that the weather, as well as your driving style, affects your range. In summer, you'll be able to drive much further than in colder weather.

How to plan the perfect road trip with your electric car

Good preparation is half the battle, especially with an electric car. Not only is the route important, but there are also several other things you'll want to keep in mind.

• For example, I'd personally opt for accommodations with a charging station, so you can always drive to your next destination with full range in the morning. Through Booking.com, for example, and also through vacation rental providers, you can filter by hotel and cottage with an electric car charging station nearby or even at the accommodation itself.
• Plan a vacation with destinations that are relatively close to each other. This way, you'll truly make it a (mini) road trip and get to know the destinations even better along the way. I've created a few sample itineraries, all perfect for a one-week vacation. From the Champagne region to Zeeland!
• With the My Peugeot app You can plan the best route to your destination and it indicates exactly where and when you need to charge if interim charging is required.

YourLBB's latest lists

3 Road trip routes with an electric car

For convenience, I've always based the distances on Amsterdam. Have fun planning your (mini) road trip!

North Holland & Texel

I've lived in North Holland for almost half my life, yet I've only really gotten to know the province well in the past year. This road trip goes from Amsterdam to West Friesland (1 night), from West Friesland to Texel (2 nights), from Texel to Schoorl (2 nights), and from Schoorl to the Haarlem/Bloemendaal area (2 nights).

Amsterdam – West Friesland (46 km):

Last week we spent a few days in West Friesland, and that's where the idea for this road trip came from. Do you prefer a cottage or a hotel? Hoorn recently opened a lovely boutique hotel: Ysbrantsz. Hoorn has a great fresh produce market on Saturdays, and there are several lovely restaurants. Other charming villages in West Friesland include Enkhuizen and Medemblik. Want to stay in a tiny house at the foot of the dike with a view of the meadows? Then check out Familie Buitenhuys.

West Friesland – Texel (77 km):

From West Friesland, you travel on to Texel. In just half an hour, you'll be on a ferry to one of the most beautiful and diverse Wadden Islands. What fun things can you do there? Enjoy the beautiful weather on the beach, pick wild oysters and open them yourself with a delicious bottle of bubbly, hike through the woods or through beautiful nature reserves like the Slufter, take a seal-watching tour from Oudeschild, relax in the spa at Boutique Hotel Texel, and enjoy fantastic food at boutique hotels with restaurants, such as Bij Jef and Gastrofarm in Oost. Charging stations are available throughout the island on Texel. View all tips for Texel here >>

Texel – Schoorl (46 km): 

The Schoorl area is incredibly beautiful in every season. We stayed there last fall and will definitely do so again this year. There are several lovely boutique hotels in the area, such as Blooming Hotel (in Bergen) and Hotel Merlet (in Schoorl). This area is all about unwinding. Walk along the beach or through the dunes. It's so beautiful! From the Schoorlse Duinen Outdoor Centre, you can enjoy lovely walks, and there's a gnome trail for the kids. Want to do a bit of shopping and browse the boutiques? Then Bergen is the place to be. View all tips for Schoorl and the surrounding area here >>

Schoorl – Haarlem / Bloemendaal (45 km):

On the way to the final destination of this mini road trip through North Holland, you'll make a stop in Alkmaar. It's a surprisingly charming city, with old streets full of small boutiques and charming restaurants and cafes along the canals. Afterward, you'll check into your last hotel near Haarlem or Bloemendaal aan Zee. Feeling like exploring the city? Then consider Boutique Hotel Staats. Or perhaps a more rural accommodation? One of my favorite places to stay, Plantage Rococo, is also a great base for a day at the beach or in Haarlem. Want to wake up with a sea view? The Poort Beach Boutique Apartments have been completely renovated and are wonderfully luxurious. Alternate a day at the beach with a day in the Waterleidingduinen nature reserve, where you can spot plenty of deer and foxes. Magically beautiful!

Oyster picking on Texel

Antwerp, Lille & the Champagne region

Fingers crossed we'll be able to travel freely to Belgium and France again very soon. During this road trip, you'll immerse yourself in the good life of Burgundy. From Amsterdam to Antwerp (2 nights), from Antwerp to Lille (2 nights), and from Lille to Épernay (3 nights) in the heart of the Champagne region.

Amsterdam – Antwerp (170 km):

When was the last time you were in Antwerp? It's still my favorite city in Belgium, and it's so easy to get there! Antwerp is fantastic for shopping, from the big brands on the Meir to the small boutiques in Kammenstraat and Volksstraat. Sergio Herman recently opened Le Pristine, and anyone who loves good food should definitely add it to their bucket list. Other favorites you'll want to visit soon include Fiskeskur, Bistrot l'îlot, and Green Garage. For accommodations, Hotel Pillar, Hotel Franq, and Hotel August are highly recommended. View all tips for Antwerp here >>

Antwerp – Lille (126 km):

The next stop on this road trip will be Lille. A city I love returning to again and again. It has that French feel just across the border. Where you can shop well, but perhaps even better food. I think the city still needs some improvement in terms of really nice hotels, but until then, L'Arbre Voyageur is your best bet. It's within walking distance of the city center and all its delicious restaurants. Combine shopping with wandering through the historic streets, exploring beautiful parks, visiting museums, and, above all, enjoying a leisurely meal and drink. View all tips for Lille here >>

Lille – Épernay (226 km): 

Have you ever been to the Champagne region? I found it so special the first time I went. The main street was lined with all the champagne houses you see on the menus of fine restaurants. Stately buildings with miles of cellars where champagne bottles patiently wait for that one celebratory moment. The surrounding area is beautiful; you'll find several lovely restaurants that aren't necessarily trendy, but where you can enjoy delicious French food. Load up the car with beautiful bottles to take home as a souvenir. There are plenty of hotels in the Champagne region, but I would definitely recommend accommodation with a charging station for an electric car. View the selection here >>

The way back? Still have vacation days left? Then you could, for example, spend a night in Maastricht on your way home. Of course, you can also use the fast chargers you find in the Free2Move app!

Wandering through Lille

The Zeeland Islands

If you've been following me for a while, you know I was born and raised in Zeeland. A mini road trip through Zeeland is a must! If only because we took it ourselves last summer, and it gave us the ultimate holiday feeling in our own country. Why? Sun, sea, sand, fantastic food, and nature. From Amsterdam to Schouwen and Duivenland (2 nights), from Schouwen and Duivenland to Walcheren (2 nights), from Walcheren to Cadzand-Bad (2 nights), and from Cadzand-Bad to Goes (1 night).

Amsterdam – Schouwen and Duivenland (150 km):

Perhaps one of the most beautiful islands in Zeeland in terms of nature. Westenschouwen, near Burgh Haamstede, offers beautiful walks. Afterwards, enjoy a wine tasting at Wijnhoeve de Kleine Schorre, one of the best Dutch wineries, served in KLM Business Class. Zierikzee is a great base for your days on Schouwen and Duivenland. You'll find several charming boutique hotels there, such as De Zeeuwse Hemel. In Bruinisse, you can enjoy delicious fish at Bru17. It's also fun to go on a fishing boat; you might even spot seals! Weather permitting? Then stay at De Heerlijkheid van Noordwelle, complete with an outdoor pool and palm trees!

Schouwen and Duivenland – Walcheren (43 km):

On your way to the next stop, I highly recommend a delicious lunch at De Houtzaagwerf in Kortgene. It's one of my favorite restaurants, and I keep returning to it. Walcheren is the island where I was born and lived until I went to university. I never thought I'd say it again, but Middelburg is a truly wonderful city for a city break. For example, stay at Boutique Hotel Eleanor. It's also perfect for combining with sightseeing in Veere, the beaches of Domburg, and relaxing at Beach Club Bombarie in Westkapelle. Walcheren isn't a large island, but there's plenty to discover. With kids, Het Kaslokaal in Oostkapelle is a must-see. They can play, while you enjoy your coffee in peace. View all tips for Walcheren here >>

Walcheren – Cadzand-Bad (100 km):

Before there was a tunnel to Terneuzen, you had to take a boat across the Western Scheldt to get to Cadzand-Bad. Fortunately, Zeeland Flanders is now very easy to reach, and unlike how busy Walcheren can get in the summer, you can still experience true tranquility in Zeeland Flanders. That is, until you arrive in Cadzand-Bad, because this seaside resort near the Belgian border is very popular. You'll find many excellent restaurants there (including several by Sergio Herman, whom I mentioned earlier in my tips for Antwerp). Want to go all-in on culinary delights? Then book one of the packages from Het Strandhotel. During this road trip, you'll dine at both Pure C and AIRrepublic, which have a total of three Michelin stars.

Cadzand-Bad – Goes (71 km):

Time to head back to the Randstad! But we're adding a few more nights to explore the Goes area. From Goes, you can easily reach the harbor town of Kortgene, as well as Yerseke. If you love oysters, Yerseke is definitely a place not to be missed. A plate full of oysters, a good glass of wine, and a view of the oyster ponds of places like De Oesterij. Goes has some restaurants to remember: Codium en Kale and De Bril. You can stay at Katoen, diagonally across from Codium.

Tours around Schouwen and Duivenland

More tips for fun weekend getaways by car?

Together with Peugeot, I've already collected tons of great staycation tips throughout the Netherlands! From lovely vacation homes to cities you might not immediately think of for a weekend getaway.

View all tips here