Visit these five fabulous European gardens and revel in the age-old beauty of nature framed by man’s design.
Villa d’Este, Tivoli, Italy – About an hour from Rome, and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this garden is a masterpiece of the Italian garden. Originally designed in the mid 1500’s, the many terraces, fountains, and grottoes fell into ruin until being restored in the late 1800’s. Opened to the public in 1920, the hundreds of water jets, fountains and pools are not to be missed.
- the Barnsley House in the Cotswolds
Barnsley House, Cotswolds, UK – There are many lovely gardens in the Cotswolds, but this garden of the Late Rosemary Verey, noted landscape designer and author, is a charming example of a traditional English country garden. Created in 1952, it has a mixture of plantings and features and is available to stroll if you have dinner or tea at the old manor house.
Gardens of Claude Monet, Giverny, France – Purchased in 1890, the master impressionist created some of his most famous paintings in his beloved gardens. Since 1980, the serenity of the renowned water lilies and Japanese Foot Bridge has been shared with the public. Monet’s restored cottage and cutting gardens are also open to visit.
The Alhambra Generalife Gardens, Grenada, Spain – the Alhambra is a 14th century Moorish palace complex in Andalucía and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The huge gardens are set around a small palace with a hillside view of the rest of the Alhambra. The gardens include many fountains, green labyrinths, walking paths, walled gardens, colorful flowers, and large vegetable patches. Follow the Promenade of the Oleanders to find this exceptional garden in the large complex.
Keukenhoff Gardens, Amsterdam, Holland – This world-famous garden has unprecedented displays of 7 million hand-planted flower bulbs. Spread over 32 hectares, the sheer volume is stunning, but the color and variety is breath-taking. Stroll the 15 km of foot paths, float past the bulb fields on the whisper boats, or rent bikes to explore the area around the park. The gardens are only open for two months in the spring each year, so be sure to plan your visit between March and May.
Have you ever visited the Huntington Gardens in California? I just came back from a long road trip. There are acres and acres of gardens. Many rare plants from around the world. Art that is a feast for the eyes. Plan for an entire day and bring your comfortable shoes you’ll need them. The gardens at Giverny is on my bucket list thanks for the info.
Nettie – Huntington Gardens sound great. And yes, you must get to Giverny. Please also see my post of “Perennial Favorites: 5 Fabulous Gardens in Europe.” Thanks for sharing your experiences. – Beverly