Holland has always been famous for its exceptional gardens, from the grassy and atmospheric designs of Piet Oudolf to the abundant tulip fields of North Holland. In aid of #NationalGardeningWeek, we’ve curated a list of our favourite gardens, reflecting the tradition and diversity of Dutch garden design.
Botanical Garden Amsterdam
Hortus Botanicus in Amsterdam is one of the most impressive botanical gardens in Europe. More than 400 years old, it was originally built to serve as a humble herb garden for the doctors of Amsterdam. Situated in the center of the city, it’s the perfect place to get some peace and quiet in the hustle and bustle of the metropolis. There are over 6,000 species of native and non-native trees and flowers, hundreds of magnificent butterflies and a century old giant water lily. The tranquil and zen-like atmosphere of the gardens can be enjoyed even more in the elegant cafe and the outdoor area. A visit to the botanical gardens can be easily combined with a trip to Artis zoo, as they’re very close by. Book your accommodation near Amsterdam and enjoy all the best tourist attractions the city has to offer.
Keukenhof Gardens
Keukenhof tulip gardens in Lisse attracts garden lovers from all over the globe. There are around 7 million Dutch bulbs in bloom in spring, with hyacinths, tulips, daffodils, lillies, roses and orchids among the selection. The Keukenhof is the most famous of all the Dutch gardens and offers excellent activities for children, such as a petting zoo and a maze. Book a holiday park near the Keukenhof and enjoy an afternoon in one of the most famous gardens in the world.
Japanese Garden in the Hague
The fragility of the Japanese Garden in the Hague means that it can only be visited for a short time each year. This Japanese Garden is the only one of its kind in the Netherlands and was founded in 1910. This means that it has huge historic value. The garden was actually built by a Dutch women – Lady Daisy – who had sailed to Japan numerous times and was inspired by their beautiful lanterns, sculptures, pavilions, bridges and native plants. These gardens have a tranquil atmosphere and feature subtle and impressive colours, from the soft pink of Japanese cherry blossom to the deep green of moss. Book a cottage in the Hague and enjoy an afternoon of zen at the Japanese Garden.
Paleis Het Loo Gardens
This garden is designed in the classic Dutch Baroque style, with exquisite patterns and intricate details. This garden was actually designed by King-Stadtholder Willem III and his wife Mary Stuart II, who later held the English throne. The layout of the garden and its fountains and statues certainly gives the garden a very regal feel. With detailed trellis work and gilded ornaments, this is a garden to visit for the aristocrats among you! Have a look at our holiday parks in the Veluwe and enjoy a day trip to Apeldoorn and the stunning palace gardens.
Gardens of Oud Valkenburg Castle
Last but not least, the stunning gardens of Oud Valkenburg Castle consist of a botanical garden, herb garden, castle orchards and a traditional watermill. Over 400 species of native flowers grow in the botanical garden, including old fashioned vegetables and medicinal herbs. The garden is alive with the buzzing of bees and the splashing of salamanders and frogs. Originally, these gardens were for the use of the kitchen staff at the castle. The castle itself, officially called Schaloen castle, was famously restored by Dutch architect Pierre Cuypers, who also built the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. Book a holiday park in Valkenburg and visit this incredible tourist attraction.
Visit a Dutch garden
At HolidayParkSpecials, we have parks in the vicinity of all of Holland’s most beautiful Dutch gardens. Have a look at our selection of parks and specials and enjoy a day out surrounding by tulips in bloom.
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