World Botanical Gardens
As we have traveled around the globe, nothing has impressed us more as Hidden Gems, than some of the World Botanical Gardens that we have encountered. Funding for the maintenance and upkeep are normally supported by philanthropic organizations. They have made major contributions to their beauty. A few are supported by local governments, but whichever funding approach is used, the sheer beauty is always apparent. Here are some of the best that we have found.
World Botanical – Butchart Garden, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada
We had heard great things about Victoria and the famous Butchart Garden. However, Victoria, which is on Vancouver Island, can be challenging to visit from Vancouver, as there is no land connection. Sea Plane or Ferry are your only options. Therefore, on our first two visits to Vancouver we were disappointed in not being able to get to Victoria.
Fortunately, during our third visit to British Columbia, our cruise ship docked in Victoria. As a result, we were finally able to take a very enjoyable excursion tour to the Garden. Truly an incredible place, and certainly #1 on our list of Hidden Gem Gardens. Viator has some nice tours of both Vancouver Island and Butchart Gardens.
To learn more about our trips to Canada please see our post Planning a Trip to Canada.
World Botanical Garden – Queen Elizabeth Walk, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
During our initial visit to Vancouver a few years ago, we were determined to get to Victoria on Vancouver Island, to visit the famous Butchart Garden. Unfortunately, we learned that the best way to get there would be to take a small float plane to the port in Victoria. Then, at least a half hour taxi ride to the Garden. Given our limited time in Vancouver, we ruled this out. Instead we visited Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, located in a central residential area of Vancouver, also a very nice garden.
World Botanical Monet’s Gardens, Giverny, France
Giverny is about an hour west of Paris. You get there traveling either by cruise boat on the the Seine River or by train. Giverny hosts the home and beautiful gardens of Claude Monet. We really enjoyed seeing the actual gardens, having first visited Monet’s art work in the Paris museums (see Our Favorite Museums). Not surprisingly, the relationship between the beautiful art work, and the gardens was real. Also, to see more about our trips to France, please see our post Planning a Trip to France.
World Botanical Gardens – Isola Madre, Lake Maggiore, Piedmont, Italy
Hidden in the Northern Lakes region of Italy, part of the Borromean Islands is the garden island called Isola Madre. These gardens are officially called the Giardini Botanici dell’Isola Madre. They are accessible only by boat from the town of Stresa. Stresa is about thirty minutes west of the more famous Lake Como and the equally famous town of Bellagio. To see more about our trips to Italy please see our post Planning a Trip to Italy.
World Botanical – Japanese Gardens
Some of the most famous gardens in the world are located in Japan. At a number of temples throughout Japan, particularly in Kyoto, you will find some of these beautiful gardens. The following pictures are from the Tenryu-Ji Temple in Kyoto. The first picture is in the fall, the others are all in the spring.
World Botanical Gardens in Australia and New Zealand
During our 2023 trip to “down under”, Cos and Robin visited three different gardens in Australia and New Zealand. In each of the three cities where we visited the gardens, they were impressed by the commitment of the local people to support these beautiful places.
Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney Australia
The Royal Botanic Garden in Sydney is a stunning oasis in the heart of the city that is a must-visit for anyone who loves nature and beautiful scenery. The Garden boasts an impressive collection of plants from around the world, including rare and exotic species. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the various themed gardens, such as the Australian Rainforest Walk, the Rose Garden, and the Herb Garden. The Garden also offers a range of guided tours and events, making it a great destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Whether you’re looking to relax and unwind, or learn something new about the plants and wildlife of Australia, the Royal Botanic Garden has something for everyone.
Botanic Gardens of South Australia
If you’re looking for a peaceful oasis in the heart of South Australia, then the Botanic Gardens are the perfect destination for you. Nestled amongst the hustle and bustle of the city, these gardens offer a serene escape from the stresses of everyday life. The gardens boast an impressive collection of plant species from around the world, and you’ll be able to explore everything from the lush rainforests of South America to the arid deserts of Africa. Whether you’re a keen botanist or simply looking for a relaxing day out, the Botanic Gardens are sure to delight and inspire you. So why not pack a picnic and spend the day surrounded by the beauty of nature?
World Botanical Gardens, Wellington, New Zealand
The Garden is located on the top of the mountain on the west side of the city. Therefore, the easiest way to get there is to take the cable car.
Botanical Gardens Wellington is an absolute gem of a place that you simply cannot miss if you’re in the city. Situated right in the heart of the city, this stunning garden is a perfect spot for a peaceful afternoon stroll, a picnic with your loved ones, or simply a place to enjoy the beauty of nature. You’ll find a wide variety of plants and flowers here, from towering trees to delicate blooms, all perfectly curated to create an oasis in the midst of the hustle and bustle of Wellington. The garden is beautifully maintained and you’ll be amazed by the vibrant colors and the sweet fragrance of the flowers. The best part? It’s completely free to enter, so you can come and go as you please. So, whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a spot to relax and unwind, Botanical Gardens Wellington is definitely worth a visit.
Bok Tower Gardens, Florida, USA
Edward William Bok, an accomplished author, founded and funded the the Bok Gardens. He was a winner of the Pulitzer Prize, editor of the Ladies Home Journal and a noted philanthropist. Bok was helped by another famous person, Frederick Law Olmstead, the designer of New York’s Central Park. The Gardens are off the beaten path in Lake Wales, Florida between Tampa and Orlando. They are definitely a Hidden Gem as they are beautiful, a very pleasant place to visit. The heart of the Gardens is the Singing Tower. It is a magnificent Carillion that is played by professional carillonneurs on a keyboard much like an organ.
Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
Located in Boothbay Maine, The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens are a true Hidden Gem. In addition to the beautiful gardens, they host some of the most impressive troll statues (wood) we have ever seen. The artist, Thomas Dambo, who created these beautiful sculptures is based in Copenhagen. He has placed his sculptures (47 in total) all over the world including Denmark and Korea. In the United States, in addition to Maine, he has some in Breckingridge, Colorado.
