A Floral Designer's Solo Retreat to Keukenhof

A Symphony of Orchids and Flavors

Today was another enchanting day at Keukenhof, a place that continues to inspire me with its floral artistry. Leaving Andreas and Sophie back in Bonn for this solo adventure was a little hard, but I knew I needed this creative immersion. Today, I focused on the indoor pavilions, specifically the Juliana Pavilion and Beatrix Pavilion, and ended my day with a taste of local culinary delights.




Explore Juliana Pavilion in Lisse, a charming museum showcasing Dutch history, culture, and stunning gardens for an unforgettable experience.

My morning began with a hearty Dutch breakfast at the Wilhelmina Paviljoen, right by the pond. The atmosphere was so peaceful, a perfect start to a day filled with floral exploration. I opted for a traditional *broodje met kaas* and a strong coffee, fueling up for the visual feast ahead. Although some reviews mention the service can be slow, I found it quite pleasant, perhaps because I arrived early and the crowds hadn't yet descended. It's funny, even here in the Netherlands, I sometimes miss the little cafe in Hattem where I grew up; the *gezelligheid* is just different when it's your hometown.



With sketchbook and camera in hand, I made my way to the Juliana Pavilion. This pavilion offered a fascinating journey through the history of the tulip. The displays were informative, detailing the tulip's journey from Turkey to the Netherlands and its subsequent rise to fame. I was particularly captivated by the exhibit on 'Tulipomania,' the period in the 17th century when tulip bulbs were so highly prized that they fetched exorbitant prices. It's incredible to think that these delicate flowers once drove a speculative frenzy! I spent a good hour sketching the various tulip varieties, noting their unique shapes and colors. I even learned about the black tulip and its interesting story. I remember reading about it as a child in a book, never imagining I'd see so many variations in one place.





Next on my list was the Beatrix Pavilion, home to the Orchid and Anthurium Show. If the Juliana Pavilion was about history, the Beatrix Pavilion was pure sensory overload. The air was thick with the sweet fragrance of orchids, and the visual display was simply breathtaking. Orchids of every imaginable color and shape were on display, from the delicate moth orchids to the vibrant cymbidiums. The anthuriums, with their glossy leaves and striking spathes, added a touch of drama to the scene. I was particularly drawn to a display of miniature orchids, each one a tiny work of art. I spent what felt like hours wandering through the pavilion, snapping photos and marveling at the sheer variety of these exotic blooms. It's amazing how different the flowers are, a world away from the tulips but equally beautiful.




Explore the Beatrix Pavilion's stunning Orchids & Anthurium Show, a floral paradise in the heart of Keukenhof Gardens, perfect for nature lovers.

In the heart of every flower lies a story waiting to be told, a moment of beauty waiting to be captured.

For lunch, I decided to try Restaurant De Vier Seizoenen, enticed by its promise of seasonal ingredients and Dutch cuisine. The restaurant was bustling, but I managed to snag a table by the window. I opted for a classic *erwtensoep* (pea soup) and a *kroket*, a quintessential Dutch snack. The soup was hearty and flavorful, perfect for a chilly January day. The *kroket* was crispy on the outside and filled with a savory ragout. It was exactly what I needed to refuel after a morning of floral exploration. It reminded me of the simple lunches Andreas and I used to have when we first met, exploring the local markets in Bonn.



As the afternoon wore on, I took a leisurely stroll through the gardens, soaking in the serene atmosphere. The bare branches of the trees silhouetted against the winter sky had a stark beauty, and the promise of spring hung in the air. I found a quiet bench overlooking one of the ponds and spent some time reflecting on my journey so far. It's been wonderful to reconnect with my Dutch roots and to immerse myself in the world of flowers. This trip is not just about professional inspiration; it's also a chance for personal rejuvenation. I realised that I had forgotten my portable phone charger at the hotel, which was a bit annoying.



Before heading back to my bed and breakfast, I decided to treat myself to dinner at Chefke's in Lisse, a restaurant recommended by several locals. I was in the mood for something comforting, and Chefke's seemed to fit the bill. The restaurant had a cozy, neighborhood vibe, and the menu featured a mix of Dutch and international dishes. I ordered the *pepersteak*, a classic steak dish with a creamy pepper sauce. The steak was cooked to perfection, and the sauce was rich and flavorful. It was the perfect end to a long day. The reviews I read beforehand mentioned the friendly staff, and they were spot on. The service was attentive without being intrusive, and I felt right at home. I even overheard some locals chatting about the upcoming National Tulip Day on January 18th in Amsterdam, where they create a tulip picking garden at Museum Square. Maybe I'll try to visit tomorrow, depending on how the day goes.




Discover the delightful flavors of Dutch cuisine at Chefke's, a budget-friendly restaurant in the heart of Lisse, perfect for tourists.

To cap off the evening, I ventured to Den Ouden Heere for a nightcap. The bar had a warm, inviting atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of floral immersion. I ordered a *jenever*, a traditional Dutch gin, and savored its distinctive flavor. The bar was lively with locals, and I enjoyed eavesdropping on their conversations, catching snippets of Dutch humor and local gossip. It felt good to be surrounded by the sounds of my native tongue. While some reviews online are a bit mixed, I found the service to be friendly and the ambiance just what I needed. It was a pleasant way to end the day, a quiet moment of reflection before heading back to my cozy bed and breakfast.




Experience fine dining at Den Ouden Heere in Lisse, where exceptional service meets exquisite Dutch cuisine using fresh, local ingredients.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore the LAM Museum and Kasteel Keukenhof. I’m particularly excited about visiting the LAM Museum, as I’ve heard it has an intriguing collection of modern art. And who knows, maybe I'll find a little inspiration for my next floral design project. I am also planning to have breakfast at Blooming Dutch and lunch at Jacoba’s Kitchen. Dinner will be at Hofboerderij, and I might check out De Heerekamer Lisse for a drink.



As I drift off to sleep, I'm filled with gratitude for this solo adventure. It's a reminder that sometimes, the best way to nurture your creativity is to step away from the familiar and immerse yourself in something new. And what better place to do that than in the heart of the Dutch flower region?