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Settled in 1847 by Dutch immigrants, Holland is a delight for the soul and senses. Much of the town lies along Lake Macatawa, which flows through a dike dug by the original settlers and into Lake Michigan. With a population of 35,000, Holland is a short 30-minute drive; west of Grand Rapids, and along a beach trail which features Saugatuck to the south and Grand Haven to the north.

While best known for the Tulip Time Festival, when the city blossoms in the cool spring air with more than six million Dutch tulips and a festival that includes floats, parades, and Klompen (wooden shoe) dancers, Holland is unique among Michigan beach towns as a year-round destination.

Wander the cobblestone walkways of the main shopping district downtown and you’ll find time escapes you in a most pleasant way. More than 100 interesting boutiques, art galleries, and cafes line the streets, the merry tune played by the glockenspiel over the toy store being the only reminder of time. Some stores feature Dutch-inspired gifts or décor, with lacy curtains, Dutch names or gabled roofs; the touches of the Netherlands are done so subtly and authentically that there’s always a feeling of European charm, rather than commercialization.

History buffs can explore the numerous historical markers and buildings in the downtown area, some of which date back to the 1890’s. The Holland Museum chronicles the city’s history as well as hosting special exhibits. The Cappon House gives visitors a glimpse into 19th century living, filled with the personal belongings of Holland’s first mayor, Isaac Cappon. Holland’s preservation of historical treasures earned it a place on the America’s Dozen Distinctive Destinations list from the National Trust for Historic Preservation in 2002.

A town named Holland wouldn’t be complete without a windmill – and the authentic 12-story giant DeZwaan (the swan) graces Windmill Island. The last windmill allowed to leave the Netherlands, the 240 – year old windmill is the heart of the pastoral island, as cows and horses graze in the fields as DeZwaan’s 40-foot sails turn. Costumed guides, a Dutch-painted carousel and gift stores are scattered throughout the island, where visitors can roam acres of gardens, watch as intricate hand-dipped candles are made, or simply gaze at the windmill turning in the breeze.

Further out of town is the Dutch Village, which features the only Delftware factory in the United States. A commercialized version of Windmill Island, visitors will nevertheless find a pleasant path through a wooden shoe factory, craft demonstrations and a few carnival-type rides.

Outdoor treasures include miles of paths for biking, hiking, roller-blading, fishing in Lake Macatawa, and relaxing on the sandy dunes along the shore of Lake Michigan. Holland State Park is home to Big Red, one of the state’s most popular lighthouses, and offers a boat launch, two campgrounds, picnic and playground areas, as well as concessions. Adventure and fishing programs are available to children during the summer.

Holland is also a year-round cultural escape. During the spring and summer months, numerous gallery showings, outdoor concerts, the Hope College Summer Repertory Theater and the Arts in the Park weekend provide an enriching break from beach and water sports. Gallery walks, symphony concerts and the Farmer’s Market are the highlights of fall, with a backdrop of colorful foliage along the coastline of Lake Michigan.

In winter, the town is even more magical, with unusual heated sidewalks that keep the walkways free of snow and ice. Music, piped in over a clever public address system, provides a soundtrack for holiday shopping. Sinterklaas, (the Dutch St. Nicholas), resplendent in red robes and tall mitre hat, leads the children in a lantern parade which signals the opening of WinterFest and the Kerstmarkt, an open-air Christmas market. Decorative booths built from centuries-old plans offer European gifts, hot drinks, and food during the two weeks of this festival.

Holland is a bit off the beaten path, but a destination that easily adapts to a traveler’s agenda, whether that agenda includes relaxing on the beach, exploring galleries and shops, visiting museums, or enjoying the flavors of another culture.

(Photos Courtesy of the Holland Area Convention & Visitors Bureau)