A Floral Designer's Solo Retreat to Keukenhof

Winter Whispers in Keukenhof

The crisp January air nipped at my cheeks as I set out this morning. Today was all about embracing the quiet beauty of Keukenhof, a different kind of visit than the explosion of color I usually associate with this floral paradise. It's funny, isn't it? We often think of gardens as purely spring and summer affairs, but there's a unique charm to be found even in the quieter months. It's a time for reflection, for noticing the subtle details we might miss amidst the bustling crowds and vibrant blooms of peak season.

My day began, as all good days should, with a hearty breakfast. I headed to the Wilhelmina Paviljoen, one of the royal pavilions within Keukenhof. Even though the flower shows are yet to come [the season officially begins in late March], the Wilhelmina Paviljoen offered a cozy respite from the cold. Sipping on a warm coffee and enjoying a traditional Dutch pastry, I felt a sense of calm settle over me, a perfect start to a day of exploration.

Fueled and ready, I decided to dedicate my morning to the famed tulip fields. Now, I knew that January isn't exactly tulip season. The fields weren't a riot of color, but there was a stark beauty to them. The bare earth held the promise of the vibrant life to come, a silent testament to nature's cycles. It reminded me of the quiet anticipation I feel when planning a new floral arrangement, the potential energy waiting to be unleashed.


Explore the vibrant tulip fields of Katwoude, a breathtaking showcase of Dutch horticulture and springtime beauty.

I wrapped my scarf tighter and started my walk. The air was so clean and fresh, a welcome change from the city. I took my time, breathing deeply and letting my mind wander. It's moments like these, alone with nature, that I find the most inspiring. I paused to sketch in my notebook, capturing the lines of the land and the way the winter light played across the fields. Even in their dormant state, the tulip fields held a certain magic.

The beauty of a garden lies not just in its vibrant blooms, but also in the quiet promise of life that sleeps beneath the winter soil.

Next on my list was the Laarzenpad Keukenhof, or 'boot path'. This sounded like just the kind of off-the-beaten-path adventure I was craving. I laced up my comfortable walking shoes (thankfully I remembered those!) and set off. The Laarzenpad proved to be a delightful trek through the Keukenhof estate. It was a welcome change from the more manicured gardens, offering a glimpse into the wilder side of the landscape. I meandered along the unpaved paths, enjoying the peace and quiet. The bare trees stood like silent sentinels, their branches reaching towards the sky. I imagined what this path would be like in the spring, alive with wildflowers and buzzing with bees. But even in winter, it had its own unique charm.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Laarzenpad Keukenhof, a national park filled with vibrant flowers and serene landscapes in the Netherlands.

After a refreshing walk, my stomach started to rumble. For lunch, I decided to try Restaurant De Vier Seizoenen , drawn in by its promise of seasonal Dutch cuisine. The restaurant was warm and inviting, and I was quickly seated by a friendly server. I opted for a hearty winter stew, a comforting dish that warmed me from the inside out. As I savored each bite, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the simple pleasures of good food and good company (even if my company was just myself today!).


Experience the flavors of Lisse at Restaurant De Vier Seizoenen – where seasonal ingredients meet culinary creativity.

With the afternoon sun beginning to dip towards the horizon, I felt the need for a little something stronger than coffee. I made my way to Hotel-Restaurant-Cafe-Zalen De Engel , a local establishment known for its cozy atmosphere. I settled into a comfortable chair with a glass of Dutch beer and watched as locals gathered to chat and unwind. It was the perfect way to soak up the local culture and reflect on my day.


Discover the charm of Dutch hospitality at Hotel-Restaurant-Cafe-Zalen De Engel, your perfect base for exploring Lisse and the stunning Keukenhof gardens.

Before dinner, I took one last stroll through a different section of the tulip fields, watching as the sunset painted the sky in hues of orange and pink. It was a stunning sight, and I felt incredibly lucky to be able to witness it. The quiet solitude of the fields allowed me to truly appreciate the beauty of the moment.

For dinner, I chose Trattoria Panini , an Italian restaurant in Lisse. I've always enjoyed Italian food, and the reviews for this place were excellent. I wasn't disappointed. The pizza was delicious, with a thin, crispy crust and fresh toppings. It was the perfect end to a day of Dutch exploration with an Italian twist.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Trattoria Panini in Lisse, where every meal feels like a trip to Italy.

As I made my way back to my cozy bed and breakfast, I couldn't help but smile. Today had been a reminder that beauty can be found in unexpected places, even in the quiet of winter. Keukenhof in January is a different experience, but it's one that I wouldn't trade for anything. It allowed me to connect with nature on a deeper level, to appreciate the subtle details that often go unnoticed in the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore the Keukenhof Forest and Duin-en-Bollenstreek Knoopunt 42 [Itinerary of Tomorrow]. I'm looking forward to another day of adventure and discovery in this beautiful corner of the Netherlands.

I'm really looking forward to tomorrow and exploring more of what Keukenhof has to offer. I also need to remember to buy a portable phone charger – running out of battery today was a bit of a pain! I'm also hoping the weather forecast for tomorrow is wrong and that I don't need an umbrella!

Until then, *tot ziens!*

I might even bring Andreas and Sophie here when the tulips are in full bloom, I think they would love it. Andreas would probably enjoy a nice bike ride along the fields, and Sophie would definitely take some cool pictures for her Instagram.

The highlight of my day was definitely the Laarzenpad. It was so peaceful and quiet, and I loved being surrounded by nature. It reminded me of the forests back home in Hattem, where I used to spend hours exploring as a child. It's funny how certain places can evoke such strong memories.

As I write this, I'm sipping on a cup of herbal tea and listening to some traditional Dutch folk music. It's the perfect way to wind down after a long day of exploring. I feel so grateful for this opportunity to travel and experience new things. It's something that I've always dreamed of, and I'm so glad that I'm finally making it happen.

The best part of traveling solo is the freedom to do whatever I want, whenever I want. I can change my plans on a whim, linger in places that I love, and skip the things that don't interest me. It's incredibly liberating.

I'm also enjoying the challenge of navigating a new place on my own. It forces me to step outside of my comfort zone and rely on my own resourcefulness. It's empowering to know that I can handle whatever comes my way.

Of course, there are times when I miss Andreas and Sophie. I wish they could be here to share these experiences with me. But I also know that this trip is something that I need to do for myself. It's a chance to reconnect with my passions and rediscover my sense of adventure.

And who knows, maybe this will inspire them to take their own solo trips in the future! I think it would be good for both of them to have some time to explore their own interests and recharge their batteries.

But for now, I'm content to be here, in this cozy bed and breakfast in Lisse, surrounded by the quiet beauty of the Dutch countryside. It's a perfect reminder that sometimes, the best things in life are the simplest ones.