A Floral Designer's Solo Retreat to Keukenhof

First Day in Bloom!

The crisp January air nipped at my cheeks as I stepped off the bus, but the sight before me was enough to thaw any chill. Keukenhof Gardens, even in what some might consider its off-season, was a feast for the eyes. My heart fluttered with excitement, a feeling I haven't experienced so intensely since Andreas surprised me with a greenhouse for my birthday. This solo trip, a rare indulgence, promised a deep dive into the art of floral design, and I could already sense the inspiration bubbling within me.


Explore the stunning Keukenhof, a vibrant botanical garden in Lisse, showcasing millions of tulips and breathtaking floral displays every spring.

The journey here was smooth enough. The train from Bonn to Schiphol was uneventful, thankfully, and the connecting bus dropped me right at the garden's doorstep. I did realize, with a slight pang of annoyance, that I'd forgotten my portable phone charger. How could I, of all people, forget to pack a charger? Well, I guess I am going to have to enjoy the moment instead of taking pictures, and rely on my sketchbook to capture the essence of what I see today!

My first stop was Blooming Dutch for breakfast. I opted for the roasted chickpea wrap, which, while not the freshest, was a welcome vegan option. It fueled me up for the day ahead. With a quick coffee in hand, I started my exploration of Keukenhof. Even though it’s January, the greenhouses were brimming with life. Hyacinths, daffodils, and early tulips were bravely showing their colors, a testament to the care and dedication of the gardeners. It was fascinating to see the early bloomers, knowing that in just a few months, this place would explode into a riot of color.


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

I spent a good few hours wandering through the greenhouses, sketchbook in hand, jotting down color combinations and design ideas. The meticulous arrangement of each bloom, the careful consideration of texture and form – it was all so inspiring. I could already envision new arrangements for my little floral design business back in Bonn. Perhaps a vibrant tulip centerpiece for Sophie’s upcoming school play, or a delicate hyacinth bouquet for Andreas’s mother.

The beauty of a flower lies not just in its visual appeal, but in the story it tells – a story of resilience, growth, and the quiet triumph of nature.

Lunch was at the Wilhelmina Paviljoen. I decided to have a light lunch of tomato soup and a small sandwich. While the service was okay, I have to admit the food was not the best. But the location was great, close to Keukenhof Castle, and after lunch I took a stroll around the area.


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

After lunch, I headed to Tulip Experience Amsterdam. It was a different experience altogether. While Keukenhof was about curated beauty, the Tulip Experience was about understanding the journey of the tulip. The museum was informative, detailing the history and cultivation of these iconic flowers. I learned about the Dutch bulb growers and their dedication in perfecting the art of tulip breeding. It was fascinating to see the whole process, from bulb to bloom.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of tulips at Tulip Experience Amsterdam, a vibrant attraction blending nature, culture, and education in a stunning setting.

The highlight was the show garden, where I could wander through fields containing over a million tulips. It was not quite the peak season, but it was still a sight to behold. I took the chance to pick my own bunch of tulips in their indoor picking garden. I chose a variety of colors – deep purples, bright yellows, and soft pinks. I can't wait to bring them back home to Bonn, a little piece of Holland to brighten our home.

Before dinner, I did some shopping at the Keukenhof shop. Of course I bought some tulip bulbs to try and plant at home, and I also got a lovely scarf with a tulip print. It will be a nice reminder of this trip.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Keukenhof, the world's largest flower garden, showcasing millions of vibrant blooms in a stunning setting.

For dinner, I chose Restaurant De Vier Seizoenen. It was a perfect end to the day. The restaurant lived up to its name, with a menu that celebrated seasonal ingredients. I opted for a fish dish, beautifully prepared and bursting with flavor. The ambiance was warm and inviting, and the service was attentive. I felt content and grateful, savoring each bite and reflecting on the day's experiences.


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

As the day drew to a close, I found myself back on the bus, heading towards my bed and breakfast. It was a long day, but every moment was worth it. Keukenhof and Tulip Experience Amsterdam had exceeded my expectations. I felt inspired, rejuvenated, and filled with new ideas for my floral designs.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore the Keukenhof Windmill and take a boat tour. I am hoping to see more of the surrounding flower fields and gain a different perspective on this beautiful landscape. And maybe I'll swing by Barista Cafe Lisse for a coffee to start the day right. For now, I am excited to see what tomorrow brings!

I really miss Andreas and Sophie, and I know they would have loved to see this with me. I will make sure to bring them here next Spring, when the tulips are in full bloom. But for now, I am enjoying this rare solo adventure, a chance to focus on my passion and recharge my creative batteries. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

This trip, though brief, is already proving to be a turning point. It's a reminder that even amidst the everyday routines of life, it's essential to nurture our passions and seek inspiration wherever we can find it. And sometimes, all it takes is a field of tulips to set our souls in bloom.