The Keukenhof

We visited the tulip gardens in Lisse again today. It is nearing the end of the season, and the gardens have changed significantly, but they are still very beautiful. Although some of the flowers in the beds were spent, the late bloomers were still in flower and planters had been brought in to add colour and interest. Inside the pavilions, the orchids and lilies were incredible. I enjoyed the shade gardens, too, with their hostas, heuchera, ligularia and other shade loving perennials. The inspiration gardens were, well, inspiring. We came away with some good ideas for our own gardens. Of course, we just had to stop by the petting zoo and see the barn animals, bunnies and fowl. This little guy seemed to be enjoying the animals, too.

When we returned to Amsterdam, we went to the library for the view of the Amsterdam skyline as well as for dinner. On the way home, we stopped at Centraal Station where we saw what must be one of the most impressive Starbucks interiors in the world with an expansive area, wood paneled walls, and a fantastic high ceiling with amazing wood carvings and beams.