A Floral Designer's Solo Retreat to Keukenhof

A Winter's Tale in Bloom

The crisp January air nipped at my cheeks as I set out for another day at Keukenhof, but the promise of Dutch charm kept me warm. It's funny, isn't it? How a place synonymous with spring can hold such beauty even in the depths of winter. Today, I was determined to explore two of Keukenhof's most iconic attractions: the historic Keukenhof Windmill and the tranquil boat tour.




Experience the enchanting beauty of Keukenhof Windmill, a timeless symbol of Dutch culture surrounded by breathtaking gardens and serene landscapes.

My morning began, as it should, with a hearty breakfast at Jacoba’s Kitchen. I must admit, being a vegetarian-only establishment made it even more appealing. I enjoyed a lovely vegetarian breakfast, fueling up for the day's adventures. The fact that it's located in the Oranje Nassau Pavilion made it a convenient and delightful start.




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

With a full stomach and a sense of anticipation, I made my way towards the Keukenhof Windmill. The sky was overcast, but the windmill stood tall and proud, a testament to Dutch ingenuity and history. As I approached, I couldn't help but marvel at its sheer size and the intricate details of its construction. Originally built in 1892 in Scharmer, Groningen, it played a crucial role in draining water from the lowlands. It was donated to Keukenhof in 1957 by the Holland-Amerika Lijn, and has since become one of the park's most iconic landmarks.





I climbed to the top, eager to capture the panoramic views of the gardens. Even in January, the landscape held a certain charm. The bare fields hinted at the vibrant colors that would soon emerge, and the skeletal trees stood like silent sentinels, guarding the secrets of the soil. It was easy to imagine the windmill in its full glory, surrounded by a sea of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. I could almost feel the warm sun on my skin and smell the sweet fragrance of spring.

Sometimes, the most beautiful discoveries are made when we least expect them, in the quiet moments between seasons.

After descending from the windmill, I decided to take a stroll around the grounds, sketchbook in hand. Despite the lack of flowers, there was still plenty to admire. The manicured lawns, the carefully pruned trees, and the intricate network of pathways spoke to the dedication and artistry of the Keukenhof gardeners. I found myself drawn to a small pond, where a family of ducks paddled serenely across the water. I sat down on a nearby bench and began to sketch, capturing the scene in charcoal. It was a peaceful moment, a chance to connect with nature and appreciate the simple beauty of the winter landscape.



As lunchtime approached, I made my way to Hofboerderij, a charming restaurant located in a beautiful farmhouse. I enjoyed a delicious lunch, savoring the flavors of traditional Dutch cuisine. The restaurant's cozy atmosphere and rustic décor made it the perfect place to relax and recharge before continuing my exploration of Keukenhof.




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

Next on my list was the Keukenhof boat tour. I was curious to see the gardens from a different perspective and learn more about the surrounding area. The boarding point was conveniently located next to the windmill, making it easy to find. As I stepped onto the boat, I was greeted by a friendly guide who shared fascinating stories about the history of Keukenhof and the flower-growing region.




Discover the breathtaking beauty of Keukenhof from the water on an enchanting boat tour through vibrant flower fields in Lisse, Netherlands.

The boat glided gently along the canals, offering stunning views of the landscape. Although the flower fields were dormant, their potential was evident. I could see the neat rows of bulbs, waiting patiently for the arrival of spring. The guide explained how the flower growers carefully cultivate the land, ensuring that each bulb receives the optimal amount of sunlight, water, and nutrients. It was a testament to their skill and dedication, a reminder of the hard work that goes into creating the floral masterpieces that Keukenhof is known for.



The boat tour lasted about 45 minutes, and by the end, I felt like I had a much deeper understanding of Keukenhof and its surrounding area. It was a unique and memorable experience, one that I would highly recommend to anyone visiting the gardens, regardless of the season.



After the boat tour, I decided to treat myself to a coffee at Barista Cafe Lisse. The warm, inviting atmosphere and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee were hard to resist. I savored each sip, reflecting on the day's adventures. It was a perfect moment of contentment, a chance to appreciate the simple pleasures of life.




Discover Barista Cafe Lisse, where every cup is a journey into the world of handcrafted coffee in a cozy atmosphere.

As evening approached, I made my way to Ristorante Il Mulino in Lisse for dinner. I was in the mood for Italian, and this restaurant came highly recommended. I wasn't disappointed. The food was delicious, the service was impeccable, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. I enjoyed a leisurely meal, savoring each bite and sipping on a glass of wine. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.




Indulge in authentic Italian flavors at Ristorante Il Mulino, where every meal is a celebration of Italy's rich culinary traditions.

Reflecting on my day, I realized that Keukenhof is more than just a flower garden. It's a place of history, culture, and natural beauty. It's a place where you can connect with the past, appreciate the present, and dream about the future. And while it's undoubtedly at its most spectacular in spring, it holds a certain magic even in the depths of winter. It reminds me a bit of my own life – even when the blooms aren't at their peak, there's still beauty to be found, growth happening beneath the surface, and the promise of a vibrant future.



Tomorrow, I plan to explore the Juliana and Beatrix Pavilions, eager to discover more of Keukenhof's hidden gems. I'm particularly excited about the Orchid & Anthurium Show at the Beatrix Pavilion. I've always been fascinated by orchids, and I can't wait to see them in all their glory. And perhaps I'll find time to visit Den Ouden Heere for a nightcap. Until then, I'll cherish the memories of today, the windmills, the whisper boats, and the quiet beauty of Keukenhof in winter.