The coronavirus pandemic has compelled many world-famous parks and gardens to shut down. Due to this, for the first time in the 71 years of its existence, Keukenhof, the world-renowned Dutch flower park in South Holland, will not be open for public display of its famous flowerbeds. The Netherlands, which is usually visited by one million people from all over the world at this time of year, is famous for its springtime blossoms like tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, orchids, roses, lilies and more. 

This year there will be no visitors to witness these beautiful blooms. However, exhibitors and gardeners are determined not to let their hard work go to waste. A virtual guided tour called &lsquoKeukenhof Virtually Open&rsquo has been arranged which will transport viewers to the outstanding, 80-acre park that will showcase the incredible displays of hyacinths, daffodils and multi-coloured tulips.

A statement on the website reads, &ldquoIn the months leading up to spring, a lot of hard work has gone into providing visitors with a beautiful experience. The park is already blooming beautifully and will become even more beautiful in the coming weeks. Keukenhof likes to show this to people under the slogan &ldquoIf people cannot come to Keukenhof, we will bring Keukenhof to the people&rdquo. Keukenhof will open virtually via online channels. That means beautiful images of Keukenhof 2020, [and] an explanation from the gardeners or other people who show how beautiful the park is.&rdquo 

With over 800 varieties of hyacinths, daffodils, orchids, roses, carnations, irises, lilies, tulips, etc., Keukenhof is the world&rsquos largest bulb-flower garden. For this year&rsquos display, around seven million bulbs were planted. Most-visited between March and May, Keukenhof is a colourful high point of any visit to the Netherlands.