Keukenhof, the Best Bulb Garden in the World

Anyyone who loves gardening will understand the excitement when the name Keukenhof is mentioned. Yes, Keukenhof, in the small town of Lisse in the Netherlands (about 15 miles south of Amsterdam). It is in Keukenhof that more than 7,000,000 bulbs are hand-planted each year, making it the largest flower garden in the world.

It all started back in 1949 when the then mayor of Lisse along with some flower growers and bulb exporters created a flower exhibition. It was all as simple as that.

The exhibition became an annual event with the variety and number of bulbs being planted growing and the number of visitors growing too. Leaving us with a fantastic garden that is famous worldwide and visited each year by millions.

Keukenhof was so called because the name literally translates as 'kitchen garden'. This name was deemed appropriate because it was first planted in the herb garden that was outside of the castle kitchen of Jacoba van Beieren.

Eventually the vast hunting grounds of the castle were taken over and are now home to the modern Keukenhof Park.

Every year tourists from all over the world visit the best bulb garden in the world and it is so easy to do. There are regular public buses running backward and forward from Schipol Airport to the park.

Should you drive to the park there is plenty of parking.

And there are also many tour companies to choose from but if taking a tour check to see how long they allow you in the park. The park is extensive and personally I believe that you will need more than two hours to enjoy everything that there is to see.

Keukenhof is handicapped friendly with walkways that are paved and easy access to restaurants and restrooms.

What is there to see?

Well, obviously marvelous blooms but as you enter the park you will also be greeted by a manmade lake with meandering streams that run throughout the park. And of course on the lake are swans and ducks that enjoy being fed from the dock.

There are four indoor pavilions in Keukenhof with the indoor exhibitions changing weekly during the eight -week season.

Needless to say with a million visitors to the park during the season it can get a bit crowded. Not to fear, if you need some breathing space take some time out in the woodland garden. Here you can stroll along meandering paths and enjoy the different shrubs and bulbs.

There is also a windmill that can be climbed. From this vantage point you will see fantastic views of the park and nearby tulip fields. Only draw back is there is usually a long line to get through but worth it.

Keukenhof is also home to the largest sculpture park in the Netherlands where 150 pieces of work have been carefully chosen to blend in with the endless blooming flowers.

When to visit

Keukenhof is only open for eight short weeks during the spring. But to be honest the best time to go is during mid April.

During 2010 Keukenhof will be open between March 18 and May 16.

Source: www.keukenhof.com