A Floral Designer's Solo Retreat to Keukenhof

Capturing Culture and Cuisine: A Day Beyond the Blooms

Today was a delightful departure from the floral frenzy, diving into the cultural and historical heart around Keukenhof. It’s funny, isn’t it? We often associate this region solely with tulips, but there’s so much more to uncover. Today was about finding those hidden gems, those quiet corners that whisper stories of the past and offer a taste of authentic Dutch life.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Blooming Dutch. The name itself is so inviting, and I must admit, it was a charming little spot. I opted for a traditional Dutch breakfast, which included a selection of local cheeses, hearty bread, and, of course, a strong cup of coffee to kickstart the day. While they had a roasted chickpea wrap that was vegan, I decided to try something a bit more traditional.


Experience authentic Dutch cuisine at Blooming Dutch, where every dish tells a story amidst breathtaking floral landscapes.

With a full stomach and a sense of anticipation, I set off to my first destination: the LAM Museum. Nestled within the Keukenhof estate, the LAM Museum, or Lisser Art Museum, is a unique space dedicated to food art. What a fascinating concept! The museum encourages you to look at everyday subjects like food and shopping in a new way. It’s quite interesting to see how artists interpret the mundane aspects of our lives.


Explore the LAM Museum in Lisse, a unique tourist destination where contemporary art meets the stunning Dutch landscapes.

The building itself is quite striking, almost appearing to rise from the landscape. Inside, the collection was thought-provoking, to say the least. From an overwhelming porcelain installation depicting a year's worth of food to chocolates as big as footballs, each piece had a connection to eating, drinking, or shopping. It made me reflect on our relationship with food and how it permeates our culture. I spent a good couple of hours wandering through the exhibits, pondering the meaning behind each artwork. It’s a small museum, but it certainly packs a punch.

Art has the power to connect us, not only deeply but also deliciously.

After immersing myself in the world of food art, I made my way to Kasteel Keukenhof. The castle dates back to 1641 and has a rich history. It was once a hunting ground for Countess Jacoba van Beieren in the Middle Ages, and later, a castle was built on the estate. I was particularly interested in the castle's collection of furniture and portraits, especially those by Nicolaes Maes. The gardens surrounding the castle were also lovely, offering a peaceful escape from the crowds. It was easy to imagine what life must have been like here centuries ago.


Explore Kasteel Keukenhof, a stunning castle surrounded by vibrant gardens and tulip fields, where history and beauty intertwine in the heart of the Netherlands.

The castle gardens themselves are a delight, redesigned in the English landscape style back in 1857 by Jan David Zocher and his son Louis Paul Zocher, who also designed Amsterdam’s Vondelpark. It's amazing how these spaces evolve over time, each era leaving its mark. I strolled along the winding paths, admiring the winter foliage and the serene atmosphere. I learned that the gardens also host art exhibitions and public events, which must be quite a spectacle during the warmer months.

By now, my stomach was beginning to rumble again, so I decided to head to Jacoba’s Kitchen for lunch. This vegetarian restaurant, located in the Oranje Nassau Pavilion, is named after Countess Jacoba van Beieren, who, as I learned earlier, had a connection to the Keukenhof area. It was nice to find a place with a focus on vegetarian options. I chose a spinach burger and fries, which was a satisfying and quick meal.


Experience exquisite vegetarian cuisine surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Keukenhof's stunning gardens.

With the afternoon sun casting long shadows, it was time to indulge in a bit of Dutch hospitality. I ventured into Lisse in search of De Heerekamer Lisse, a local bar known for its cozy atmosphere. It was exactly what I needed – a warm and inviting space to unwind after a day of exploring. The bar had a lovely ambiance, and the staff were incredibly friendly. I ordered a local beer and sat by the window, watching the world go by. It was the perfect way to soak in the local culture.


Discover the flavors of Dutch cuisine at De Heerekamer Lisse, where fresh ingredients meet a warm, inviting atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.

For dinner, I decided to try Hofboerderij, a restaurant located near Keukenhof Castle. The setting was charming, and the menu featured traditional Dutch dishes. I opted for a hearty steak and a side of local vegetables. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was cozy and inviting.


Experience authentic Dutch cuisine at Hofboerderij in Keukenhof Gardens, where culinary delights meet stunning floral beauty.

As the day drew to a close, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences I had. Today was a reminder that travel is about more than just ticking off famous landmarks. It's about immersing yourself in the local culture, discovering hidden gems, and connecting with the people and places around you. And who knows, maybe I’ll even try to recreate some of the food art I saw at the LAM Museum when I get back to Bonn!

Tomorrow, I am planning to visit the tulip fields and the Laarzenpad Keukenhof. I am excited to see the tulip fields up close and explore the Laarzenpad Keukenhof, a unique walking trail that takes you through the countryside.

And as I reflect on my day, I realize that sometimes, the most memorable moments are the ones you least expect. It’s about embracing the unexpected, being open to new experiences, and allowing yourself to be surprised by the beauty and wonder of the world around you.

I am looking forward to tomorrow and all the beauty it will bring.

P.S. I really need to remember to pack that umbrella! The weather here can be quite unpredictable, and I definitely don't want to get caught in the rain again.