The Keukenhof Gardens Netherlands
If you love flowers, then you must visit the Keukenhof Gardens in the Netherlands. This spectacular garden boasts of over 7 million tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and other colorful flowers. Here are some interesting facts about the Keukenhof Gardens that you probably didn't know:
1. The Keukenhof Gardens was founded in 1949 by the then-mayor of Lisse, a small town in the Netherlands. It was meant to be a showcase for Dutch floriculture.
2. The gardens cover an area of 32 hectares, which is equivalent to about 79 acres.
3. The Keukenhof Gardens is only open for eight weeks every year, from mid-March to mid-May. This is because the flowers are in bloom for a short period.
4. The gardens are home to over 800 varieties of tulips. Each year, more than 7 million tulip bulbs are planted.
5. The gardens are not just about tulips. They also have other types of flowers, including daffodils, hyacinths, orchids, and roses.
6. If you're wondering how the gardens got their name, "Keukenhof" literally means "kitchen garden" in Dutch. The gardens used to be a herb garden for the nearby castle in the 15th century.
7. Although the Keukenhof Gardens is only open for eight weeks every year, it attracts over 1 million visitors from all over the world.
8. The gardens have a different theme every year. In 2019, the theme was "Flower Power," which celebrated the 1960s.
History
The Keukenhof Gardens has a rich history that dates back to the 15th century. The land where the gardens now stand used to be a hunting ground for the nearby castle. In the 17th century, a wealthy merchant bought the land and turned it into a country estate. The estate was later bought by Prince of Oranje-Nassau in the 19th century. It was at this time that the gardens were redesigned and turned into a formal English landscape garden.
The gardens remained a private estate until 1949, when the then-mayor of Lisse decided to turn it into a showcase for Dutch floriculture. The gardens were opened to the public for the first time in 1950 and have since become one of the most popular attractions in the Netherlands.
Travel Tips
If you're planning a visit to the Keukenhof Gardens, here are some useful travel tips:
1. The gardens are located in Lisse, which is about 30 kilometers outside of Amsterdam.
2. The best time to visit is in mid-April, when the tulips are in full bloom.
3. The gardens get crowded during weekends and holidays, so try to visit on a weekday if possible.
4. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you will be walking around the gardens for several hours.
5. Bring a camera, as you will definitely want to take lots of pictures of the beautiful flowers!
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Keukenhof Gardens:
1. How much does it cost to enter the gardens?
- Tickets cost €18 for adults and €9 for children aged 4 to 17. Children under 4 years old can enter for free.
2. Are pets allowed in the gardens?
- No, pets are not allowed in the gardens. Only guide dogs are allowed.
3. Are the gardens accessible for wheelchair users?
- Yes, the gardens are accessible for wheelchair users. There are special paths for wheelchair users and there are disabled toilets.
4. Are there restaurants in the gardens?
- Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes in the gardens. You can also bring your own picnic.
5. Is there a gift shop?
- Yes, there is a gift shop at the entrance of the gardens. You can buy souvenirs, bulbs, and other flower-related items.
The Keukenhof Gardens is a must-visit attraction if you're in the Netherlands during the spring season. It's a breathtaking experience that you won't forget!
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to the Keukenhof Gardens now!
Post a Comment for "The Keukenhof Gardens Netherlands"