A Floral Designer's Solo Retreat to Keukenhof

A Fond Farewell

As my week-long floral retreat at Keukenhof Gardens draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the serene beauty that even winter can hold. It's been a journey of quiet contemplation and inspiration, a time to absorb the essence of nature's artistry in its dormant state. While the vibrant blooms of spring are absent, the skeletal structures of the gardens and the promise of future life have offered a unique perspective, fueling my creativity in unexpected ways.

My final day began with a hearty Dutch breakfast at Wilhelmina Paviljoen. The warm ‘uitsmijter’, a local favorite of fried eggs on bread, set me up perfectly for a day of exploration. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff made it a delightful start, a comforting ritual I’ve grown accustomed to over the past week. It’s these small, local experiences that truly enrich a trip, offering a glimpse into the everyday life of the community.


Experience authentic Dutch cuisine at Wilhelmina Paviljoen amidst Lisse's stunning landscapes.

First on the agenda was a visit to the Reuzenbol: 'Flora'. Seeing this enormous structure, a testament to the artistry and scale of floral installations, even in its dormant state, was impressive. It sparked thoughts about how grand installations can integrate into my designs, perhaps on a smaller, more intimate scale. I snapped several photos, focusing on the structure's lines and the way it interacts with the winter light. Andreas would appreciate these, I thought, as he always admired bold designs.


Experience the stunning Reuzenbol: 'Flora' in Lisse, a vibrant floral sculpture showcasing the beauty of Dutch horticulture.

Next, I ventured to Viewpoint Kachelduin. The panoramic view of the winter landscape was breathtaking. The bare trees and dormant flowerbeds created a tapestry of browns and grays, a stark contrast to the explosion of color I know this place will become in a few months. It was a reminder that beauty exists in all phases of life, even in stillness. Standing there, I felt a deep sense of peace, a quiet understanding of nature's cycles.


Experience the serene beauty of Viewpoint Kachelduin, a scenic nature preserve in Noordwijk, perfect for outdoor adventures and breathtaking views.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.

For lunch, I chose Restaurant De Vier Seizoenen, hoping to capture the essence of all seasons in one meal. The restaurant lived up to its name, offering a menu that celebrated the diversity of Dutch cuisine. I opted for a traditional ‘erwtensoep’, a thick pea soup, perfect for a chilly winter day. It was a comforting and satisfying meal, a reminder of the simple pleasures in life.


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

As the afternoon waned, I found myself drawn to Het Tussenstation Lisse, a local bar known for its cozy atmosphere and selection of Dutch beers. I decided to stop by for a relaxing drink, wanting to soak in the local ambiance. The bar was filled with locals, and I enjoyed listening to their conversations, even though I didn’t understand everything. It was a reminder of my roots, a connection to the land of my birth.


Discover the essence of Dutch cuisine at Het Tussenstation Lisse, where local flavors meet warm hospitality in a picturesque setting.

In the evening, I decided to treat myself to a farewell dinner at Chique en Simpel. The restaurant’s name intrigued me, promising a blend of elegance and simplicity. The meal was exquisite, a perfect balance of flavors and textures. I savored every bite, reflecting on the experiences of the past week. The solo journey had been enriching, a chance to reconnect with my creative spirit and find new inspiration in unexpected places. I made a mental note to bring Andreas here next time; he would adore the understated elegance of the place.


Discover the culinary artistry of Chique en Simpel in Lisse, where traditional Dutch flavors meet contemporary dining in a charming setting.

As this floral journey concludes, I’m filled with gratitude for the experiences and inspiration gained. It’s time to return to Bonn, to my family, and to translate these newfound ideas into my floral designs. Although I missed Sophie and Andreas, this solo retreat was exactly what I needed to recharge and reignite my passion.

While the Keukenhof Gardens are currently closed and preparing for the vibrant tulip season that begins in late March and lasts until mid-May, I'm already anticipating my next visit during peak bloom. The explosion of colors and fragrances promises an entirely different, equally enchanting experience. I've heard that the best time to witness the tulips in full glory is from mid-April to mid-May, when the weather is bright and sunny, creating the perfect conditions for those picture-postcard moments.

I also learned that the blooming of the flower fields around Keukenhof is a natural process, with early bloomers like daffodils and hyacinths appearing at the start of the season, followed by the tulips as the weeks progress. Regardless of when you visit during the open season, a boat tour along the flower fields offers stunning views of the Dutch landscape, a unique perspective that I'll be sure to take advantage of next time.

Keukenhof is known for hosting various flower shows, parades, and events during the spring, adding an extra layer of excitement to the visit. I plan to check the schedule in advance to see if I can coincide my trip with any of these special occasions. Plus, I'll remember to book my tickets online to save a bit of money and guarantee my preferred date and time slot.

As I prepare for my journey back to Bonn, I carry with me not just memories, but a renewed sense of purpose and creativity. The quiet beauty of Keukenhof in winter has been a powerful reminder that inspiration can be found in the most unexpected places. And while my trip has come to an end, the journey of creativity continues, fueled by the magic of Keukenhof.

This marks the end of my series of blog posts from Keukenhof. I hope you’ve enjoyed following my journey, and that it inspires you to seek out beauty and inspiration in your own travels. Until next time, happy travels!