Keukenhof Gardens, The Netherlands

Last weekend we had our first VW Campervan trip of the year to the Netherlands in exploration of all things tulip related.  After a epic 11 hour journey we made it to Katwijk-aan-Zee and our campsite by the sea for a bright and early start the next day to visit the Keukenhof Gardens, somewhere which has been on my 'must visit' list for a good few years.

The Keukenhof Gardens are only open for 8 weeks of the year between April and May and we weren't sure whether we had got our timing right to see the tulips at their most spectacular - we were not disappointed and I think we were lucky enough to see them right at their very peak - it could not have been any better!

Tulip Stripes

Keukenhof is a showcase Spring Garden for the Dutch floricultural sector and has 7 million spring flowering bulbs, all planted by hand by 40 gardeners. The gardens have been open to the public since 1950 and covers 240 hectares and is the largest flower garden in the world. 


Mondriaan inspired Tulips and Muscari

This year's theme for the display was 'Dutch Design' and one of the most impressive gardens was the Mondriaan Garden above.


Woodland Tulip Planting

River of Muscari

Under planting Ideas for Next Year

The gardens or 'kitchen  garden' as Keukenhof translates, were designed by prominent bulb growers to encourage people to grow their own flowers from bulbs at home.  I'm not sure I need any encouragement, but visiting Keukenhof certainly has put my tulip bed to shame (see previous blog post) and I have definitely been inspired in my next round of bulb planting in the Autumn.  I also now have lots of Spring ideas for my new front garden which is the main project for this year - perhaps I can get a team of 40 gardeners to help?!

 
Mixed Pink and White Tulips, Muscari and Hyacinth

Never Ending Tulip Bed


Tulip, Narcissus and Anemone Bed

Contrasting Tulip Ideas For Next Year

Brilliantly Bright Double Headed Tulips


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