Nieuw Vennep, Netherlands

After yesterday’s busy day, we only had one item on our agenda for today and that was to visit the tulip festival at the Keukenhof Gardens. We had never heard of this event, which runs for six weeks over the Dutch spring, but were so very pleased that our visit coincided with it. After arranging a pickup time later in the day, Stephen dropped us off at the main entrance. A feast of colour met our eyes with every turn through the 32 ha of grassed woodlands, streams, ponds and lakes. Apparently every year, some 7 million bulbs are planted out and although predominately of tulips, also include hyacinths, daffodils, lilies and other flowers.

In a very large display shed, we found floral displays, dozens of varieties of Hyacinth and Lilies on show and a bite to eat. After some 4 or 5 hours, we left this wonderland to await the arrival of Stephen on the road outside. What a fantastic visit.

Taken across to Marianne’s at Hilversum, in the late afternoon. Another lovely welcome.