Spectacular Flowers Displays: Netherlands, New Zealand, USA, Japan, South Africa, Belgium, Morocco, Germany

One of life’s biggest joys is to see a field of flowers in full bloom. It is then when you want to stop whatever you’re doing and just breathe in the flower power. Follow the flowers, grab your camera or mobile phone and capture the moment. Just living is not enough… One must have sunshine, freedom, and a little flower. And today we follow the flowers in their abundance.

In no specific order, we are happy to share the first, part one, in the series of “Follow the Flowers” about when and where you can catch them in full bloom.

Flower Power in the Netherlands

If you find yourself in the Netherlands, visit one of the world’s largest gardens, namely Keukenhof Gardens.

When: Daffodils, or narcissi, are the first sign that winter is in the past and summer is on its merry way. They usually bloom at their peak in April.

Suggested Read Before You Finalize Your Trip To Keukenhof: Beautiful Keukenhof And The Best Flower Markets

Travel-inspired home decor after taking in the generous spread of yellow daffodils.

Giethoorn’s Floral Charm

Giethoorn, known as the “Venice of the North,” is not only famous for its charming canals and picturesque landscapes but also for its beautiful floral displays. The village is adorned with vibrant flowers, especially during the spring and summer months. You’ll find blooming gardens, colorful planters, and a delightful atmosphere that adds to the allure of this unique destination. Giethoorn’s idyllic setting, combined with its floral beauty, makes it a worthwhile and enchanting place to visit for anyone seeking a delightful display of flowers. Don’t miss the chance to experience the floral wonders of Giethoorn!

South Africa's floral display

Canola carpets in the Overberg

Where: Especially in the Overberg region on your way to L’Agulhas, or on the beautiful Garden Route.

When: Just before the official start of spring, you’ll also enjoy the sight of canola blooms during August across the countryside.

When and where to see proteas in bloom

The Protea is South Africa’s national flower.

Proteas can bs seen from the Cape to Clanwilliam, especially the Overberg Region (Hermanus, and Kleinmond).

When: Generally, the Protea flowers anytime from July to October. However, you have a great chance to find some late bloomers until early next year.

Cosmos flowers flourishing everywhere

You’ll find plenty of these happy flowers in South Africa.

Where: They grow freely along, especially the roads of the Free State and Gauteng provinces. Without sowing they come up year after year. Yet another magnificent wonder of nature.

When: They make quite a splash in early autumn and summer in an assortment of colors – white, pink, cerise, and red – no yellow in South Africa.

Origin: “Cosmos is native to Mexico and found across South America. The plants are now widespread in South Africa, brought here in contaminated horse feed imported from Argentina during the South African (Anglo-Boer) War of 1899 to 1902. (Graeme Williams, Media Club South Africa)“

Explore Namaqualand's Floral Extravaganza on a Scenic Self-Drive Journey!

Uncover the vibrant tapestry of wildflowers as you navigate the breathtaking landscapes. Discover the beauty of Namaqualand in full bloom with our ultimate self-drive guide!

Where to see the most spectacular Cherry blossoms in the world!

Tokyo, Japan, is the paradise of all cherry blossoms

Japan has two national flowers, namely the cherry blossom and the chrysanthemum. However, cherry blossoms are more commonly associated with Japan. Experience the iconic cherry blossoms in full bloom during Hanami season. Hanami season in Japan typically occurs during spring, primarily from late March to early May. Kyoto and Tokyo are particularly stunning.

Where in Tokyo:

Mount Yoshino, 吉野山, Yoshinoyama
Asukayama Park, 飛鳥山公園
Chidorigafuchi and Kitanomaru Park
Inokashira Park, 井の頭公園
Kasai Rinkai Park, 葛西臨海公園
Meguro River, 目黒川
Sumida Park, 隅田公園
Ueno Park, 上野公園
Yanaka Cemetery, 谷中霊園

The best places to see Cherry Blossoms in the USA

Most definitely in Philadelphia. Also, find approximately 3,000 cherry trees ringing the Tidal Basin in Washington D.C. If you’d like to avoid the crowds, take a kayak or pedalo across the basin instead of joining the crowds at the Tidal Basin.

When: From the end of March to May, with early April being a good bet.

the most spectacular places to witness wisterias in full bloom:

Prepare for a wisteria wonderland!

Here are some of the most spectacular places to witness wisterias in full bloom:

Kawachi Fuji Gardens, Japan: Located in Kitakyushu, this enchanting garden features a 100 m wisteria tunnel with trellises that create a dreamy atmosphere during the blooming season.

Great Wall of China, China: Certain sections of the Great Wall are adorned with vibrant wisterias, creating a unique and beautiful contrast against the ancient stones.

Longwood Gardens, USA: Situated in Pennsylvania, Longwood Gardens boasts a stunning collection of wisterias, with some vines dating back over a century.

Monet’s Garden, Giverny, France: The water garden at Monet’s residence comes alive with wisterias in spring, providing a picturesque setting.

Wisteria Tunnel, UK: The Bodnant Garden in Wales features a mesmerizing wisteria tunnel that offers a captivating floral experience.

Sierra Madre Wistaria Festival, USA: Held in Sierra Madre, California, this festival celebrates the world’s largest wisteria vine, offering a feast for the eyes.

Ashikaga Flower Park, Japan: Home to the famous Wisteria Tunnel, Ashikaga Flower Park in Tochigi showcases about 350 wisteria displays in full bloom around mid-April to early May. One of them is 150 years old with an 80 m spread. Tochigi is around 80 miles north of Tokyo.

Wisteria travel inspirations: Grow your own Wisterias

Wisterias can be a bit demanding, but with the right care, they can flourish beautifully. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil. So, choose a spot with good sunlight exposure for optimal growth. Unfortunately, the young plants struggle with frost, but there is good news if you live in a seriously cold region. The hardiest of them is a type of Kentucky Wisteria called “Blue Moon.” This cultivar can withstand seriously cold temperatures, holding strong even down to -40°C (-40°F). Now, that’s one tough wisteria!

Give a sturdy support structure for wisterias to climb. They can become heavy with lush foliage, so a strong trellis or pergola works well.

Regular pruning is essential to control growth and encourage flowering. Prune during the dormant season to shape the plant and remove excess growth.

Wisterias may take a few years to start flowering, so patience is key. Once they are established, the blooms are well worth the wait.

While they tolerate dry periods, consistent watering during dry spells is beneficial, especially for young plants.

Give a balanced fertilizer in spring to support healthy growth. And very importantly, keep an eye out for pests like aphids and scale insects. Wisterias are generally hardy but can be susceptible to some diseases.

Blue Bells in Belgium

Where: Hallerbos (the blue forest), between Zenne and Zoniën, transforms into a magical landscape, covered with a purple flower carpet. Click here for hiking maps and info about this year’s flowering season.

When: Usually during the second half of April, subject to the weather conditions.

Alternatively, if you’re in the UK you should make your way to Bates Green Farm Tye Hill Road Arlington, Polegate East Sussex. Do the Arlington Bluebell Walk which comes with an entrance fee. Click on visitor information for more info.

Plan a February trip to the Almond Blossom Festival in Morocco

Moroccan culture in Tafraoute

Tafraoute, Morocco’s largest producer of almonds, is known as a quiet, picturesque, and quaint destination. However, the town comes alive in spring with blossoming almond trees and the vibrant celebration of the Almond Blossom Festival. The Old Roman ruins in Tafraoute are where Moroccans celebrate prosperity. Join in the fun!

Where to go for the most beautiful fields of bluebonnets

Bluebonnets in Texas, USA

Where: Central Texas is home to large fields of bluebonnets (Lupinus), also known as lupins or lupines in other countries. Georgetown, Fredericksburg, Austin, and Washington County are completely covered and are absolutely beautiful! Click here for more information about Bluebonnet trails in Texas.

When: From mid-March to mid-April.

Bluebonnets (Lupins) in New Zealand

Where: New Zealand is another amazing destination to admire nature’s works of art. The lakeside of South Island is transformed into hues of pink, purple, blue, and yellow. Some of the best places to photograph are Lake Tekapo, Wanaka, Twizel, and Lake Taupo. Go November to February.

When: From mid-March to mid-April.

Floral splendor in Germany

Düsseldorf's Benrath Castle

I love meandering in beautiful gardens, and at Schloss Benrath I can recharge again.

The beautiful castle in Düsseldorf is Schloss Benrath and it is a great family outing for both young and old. They hold classes, tours, readings, and events. It is a wonderful site for concerts, picture shoots, weddings, parties, and more. Furthermore, they also house the Natural History Museum. The castle park is open to the public and is especially beautiful in the spring and summer.