When spring approaches, our thoughts turn to gardens. We love visiting gorgeous gardens on our travels. Today, we spread our wings to bring you 10 of the most beautiful gardens in the world. From the striking Jardin Exotique in Monaco to New York’s famous High Line, these traditional and contemporary gardens across the globe will take your breath away with their incredible designs. Join us as we explore the very best the botanical world has to offer, including the classical grounds of the breathtaking Palace de Versailles and the futuristic Seattle Spheres of Amazon’s offices.
Key Takeaways
- These ten botanical gardens are all stunning, however they are by no means the only ones out there.
- Most major cities around the world offer their own botanic garden and come in a variety of shapes and sizes.
- With over 1775 botanical gardens around the world, there are plenty of options to explore.
- Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature while abroad or to step away from the bustle of the city, these gardens offer a peaceful escape.
- The natural charm of these verdant paradises will have you jumping to plan your next getaway.
1. Butchart Gardens
Overview
Located on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Butchart Gardens is a dazzling example of a successful reclamation project. Originally a limestone quarry, Jennie Butchart transformed it into a 55-acre (22-hectare) garden filled with 700 varieties of plants that bloom from March to October.
History
In 1912, Jennie Butchart began turning the abandoned pit into a garden. By 1929, the family had created a sunken garden inspired by both the Italian Renaissance and the English Arts and Crafts movement. The gardens were designed as a place for entertaining guests.
Features
- Rose Garden: Home to 2,500 rose bushes.
- Italian Garden: Features a flower-studded pond.
- Japanese Garden: Includes bamboo and fiery Japanese maples.
- Sunken Garden: A centerpiece inspired by European aesthetics.
Highlights
- Themed garden inspirations like Japanese Zen, tropical retreats, and English cottage styles.
- Seasonal color showcases for spring, summer, and autumn.
Host to a number of living plant sculptures, the gardens double up as an art gallery made entirely from nature.
Recognition
In 2007, Butchart Gardens was acknowledged as a National Historic Site of Canada and is considered one of the most important botanical gardens in the world due to its extensive collections and facilities.
2. Jardin Exotique
Jardin Exotique, located in Monaco, is a stunning garden that offers incredible panoramic views of the Mediterranean. Built into a cliffside in 1933, this garden is a must-visit for anyone traveling through the French Riviera.
Highlights
- Ponds & fountains: The garden features a variety of water elements that add to its serene atmosphere.
- Exotic plants: With species from all around the world, the garden is a botanical treasure.
- Cliffside location: The unique setting provides breathtaking views and a unique experience.
Activities
- Hedge trimming: The well-maintained hedges are a testament to the garden’s meticulous care.
- Guided tours: Learn about the garden’s history and the exotic species it houses.
- Relaxation spots: Numerous benches and shaded areas make it a perfect place to unwind.
Nearby Attractions
- Monaco’s Old Town: A short drive away, offering historical sites and charming streets.
- Local eateries: Enjoy delicious Mediterranean cuisine at nearby restaurants.
Jardin Exotique is one of the eight famous gardens across France that showcase the country’s botanical mastery, from Paris to Versailles to the south of France.
Whether you’re interested in Patio & drive way laying or simply want to enjoy the natural beauty, Jardin Exotique has something for everyone.
3. High Line
The High Line in New York City is a 1.5-mile-long elevated park that was once an abandoned New York Central railroad spur. This unique park, designed by Piet Oudolf in collaboration with James Corner Field Operations and Diller Scofidio + Renfro, features pockets of wild greenery that have transformed the structure into a series of urban micro-climates.
Design and Features
The park is divided into 15 sections, each offering something unique. From a prickly-pear maze to ponds planted with edible lotus blooms, the High Line is a botanical wonder. Thousands of clivia lilies add vibrant color against the urban backdrop.
Impact on the City
Since its opening, the High Line has become a major tourist attraction and has spurred real estate development in adjacent neighborhoods. This has led to an increase in real-estate values and prices along the route.
Maintenance and Sustainability
Maintaining the High Line involves various activities, including Turfing and Waste Clearance. These efforts ensure that the park remains a beautiful and sustainable urban oasis.
The High Line is a testament to how innovative design can transform urban spaces into green havens.
4. Palace de Versailles
The Palace of Versailles, located just outside of Paris, is a former royal residence that has become one of the most iconic landmarks in France. Originally built as a hunting lodge by Louis XIII in 1623, it was later transformed into a grand palace by his son, Louis XIV. The Sun King moved his court and government to Versailles in 1682, making it the center of political power in France.
The Gardens
The gardens of Versailles are a masterpiece of creative landscape design. Laid out by the famous French landscape designer André Le Nôtre in the 17th century, these gardens were designed to magnify the glory of the palace. The 250 acres (101 hectares) are filled with vibrant garden designs, colorful plant combinations, and whimsical garden art. The gardens feature:
- 600 fountains
- Over 370 statues
- 55 water features
- 21 miles of canals
- Hundreds of acres of flower beds
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Together with the palace, the gardens are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the second most visited monument in the world. The formal French-style gardening, with its parterres, clipped hedging, and quiet luxury in outdoor design, is truly a sight to behold.
Visiting the Palace de Versailles is like stepping back in time to an era of opulence and grandeur. The meticulous design and attention to detail in both the palace and the gardens are unparalleled.
5. Seattle Spheres
The Seattle Spheres are a unique and futuristic addition to Amazon’s headquarters in Washington, USA. These glass-domed buildings are a marvel of biophilic design, featuring living walls made up of over 25,000 plants. This innovative approach is becoming more prevalent in contemporary architecture as a way to counteract pollution and promote health and well-being.
A Sensory Experience
The Spheres are designed to be more than just visually stunning. They offer a sensory garden that engages all five senses, featuring plants, herbs, and elements that create a rich sensory experience for well-being and mindfulness.
Architectural Marvel
The structure itself is an architectural marvel, combining modern design with natural elements. The glass domes allow for an abundance of natural light, creating a perfect environment for the diverse plant life inside.
A Green Oasis in the City
Located in the heart of the city, the Seattle Spheres provide a green oasis amidst the urban landscape. It’s a place where employees and visitors can escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature.
6. Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria
Nestled on the banks of the Yarra River in Melbourne, the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria is a true gem. With more than two dozen living plant collections, this garden is a haven for plant enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Among the 8,500 plant species from around the world? Camellias, stunning roses, and succulents.
Melbourne Gardens
Dating back to 1846, the inner-city Melbourne Gardens span 94 acres of garden beds, sweeping lawns, and lakes blanketed by water lilies. Walking through Fern Gully – an oasis of rainforest – is a highlight.
Cranbourne Gardens
Set in native bushland, the vast Cranbourne Gardens celebrate Australia’s flora and landscapes. There are walking trails through eucalyptus woodlands, picnic areas, and bird lagoons. Chances are excellent you’ll see lots of cute wallabies!
We play a vital role in the study of Australia’s plants, fungi, and algae, enriching our understanding of native biodiversity and its urgent conservation needs.
7. Ruth Bancroft Garden & Nursery
A lifelong passion project of the late Ruth Bancroft, the 3.5-acre garden outside of San Francisco houses a renowned collection of succulents and drought-tolerant plants from across the world. The institution continues to teach Bancroft’s lessons on the importance of water-conserving plants through classes and lectures for members of the community.
Plan Your Visit
Admission revenue helps to preserve the garden for the public to enjoy. Your admission fee includes a self-guided tour booklet, what’s in bloom sheet, and more!
Garden Highlights
- Raised beds showcasing a variety of succulents.
- Areas dedicated to Garden Clearance and maintenance.
- Sections for Lawn Care & Mowing demonstrations.
- Special zones for Planting and seasonal displays.
- Dedicated spots for Weeding & Pruning workshops.
- Occasional Tree cutting demonstrations.
Community Involvement
The garden offers numerous volunteer opportunities, allowing locals to get involved in activities like planting, weeding, and general garden maintenance. It’s a great way to give back to the community while enjoying the beauty of the garden.
8. Jardin Majorelle
Meticulously crafted over a 40-year period by the French artist Jacques Majorelle, what was once his studio and workshop has now evolved 100 years later into one of the most popular attractions in Marrakesh. The Jardin Majorelle gardens in Marrakesh is one of the most visited sites in Morocco. Painting the buildings in his own trademarked colour, bleu Majorelle, and carefully cultivating 135 plant species from across five continents, Jacques’s enchanting gardens certainly present a lot of photo opportunities to modern day visitors.
History
French painter Jacques Majorelle began creating this spectacular Marrakesh garden in 1922. The artist spent forty years planting exotic botanical species among boldly-coloured architecture inspired by Art Deco and Moorish design. In 1980, fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent and partner Pierre Bergé bought the garden to help restore the property.
Design
Majorelle envisioned this unique, vibrantly colored walled garden in his newly adopted home of Marrakesh – and created an oasis in the arid desert landscape. Majorelle draws inspiration from elements of traditional Islamic gardens, such as a saturated color palette, shaded areas and water elements like a long reflecting pond and bubbling fountain.
Plant Collection
He created a labyrinth of alleyways that crisscross and planted exotic varieties of plants from around the world. The garden boasts 135 plant species from five continents, making it a botanical treasure trove.
Stop and smell the roses. And the jasmine, the frangipani and the lavender, too.
9. Keukenhof
Keukenhof, located in the municipality of Lisse in the Netherlands, is often referred to as the Garden of Europe. One of the world’s largest flower gardens, Keukenhof covers an impressive 32 hectares. Every year, more than 7 million flower bulbs are planted, creating a vibrant and colorful display that attracts visitors from all over the globe.
Best Time to Visit
The gardens are only open for two months of the year, from the end of March to mid-May. To avoid the crowds, it’s best to plan your visit for the late afternoon.
Unique Features
- A living catalogue of the work of 100 bulb breeders
- Reflects the country’s bulb and cut-flower growing heritage
- Several river cruises feature spring tulip cruises, offering a unique way to see the gardens
Keukenhof is a testament to the secrets of stunning gardens: unlocking the beauty within your landscape.
10. Kew Gardens
Kew Gardens is the world’s largest collection of living plants. Founded in 1840 from the exotic garden at Kew Park in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames, UK, its collections include more than 30,000 different species of plants, while the herbarium has over seven million preserved plant specimens.
With over 320 acres of landscapes and gardens, including a soaring treetop walkway, 18 metres high and 200 metres long, tropical glasshouses, art galleries, a serene lake and waterlily pools.
Highlights
- Largest and most diverse botanical collection in the world.
- Iconic Victorian Temperate House.
- Japanese Gateway and recently-restored Great Pagoda.
- World Heritage Site.
Unique Features
- Victorian Temperate House: The world’s largest Victorian greenhouse.
- Bonsai House: Features trees more than 150 years old.
- Treetop Walkway: 18 metres high and 200 metres long.
Visitor Information
- Location: Richmond, Surrey, England
- Size: 320 acres
- Founded: 1840
- Special Collections: Over 30,000 plant species, 7 million preserved specimens.
Kew Gardens is a must-visit for anyone interested in botany, horticulture, or simply enjoying a beautiful day out in nature. The expert landscaping techniques used here can inspire anyone looking to enhance their outdoor space.
Tips for Your Visit
- Wear comfortable shoes; there’s a lot to explore!
- Don’t miss the Treetop Walkway for a unique perspective.
- Visit the Victorian Temperate House and Bonsai House.
- Allocate at least half a day to fully enjoy the gardens.
- Consider using Artificial Grass for your own garden transformation after being inspired by Kew’s stunning design ideas.
Conclusion
Exploring the best public gardens around the world is more than just a visual treat—it’s an immersive experience that connects us with nature, history, and culture. From the lush landscapes of Butchart Gardens in Canada to the futuristic Seattle Spheres, each garden offers its own unique charm and story. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener looking for inspiration or just someone who enjoys a peaceful stroll among beautiful flora, these gardens are sure to leave a lasting impression. So grab your gardening gloves, pack your bags, and get ready to explore the green wonders that await you. Happy gardening and happy travels!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the best public gardens around the world?
Some of the best public gardens around the world include Butchart Gardens, Jardin Exotique, High Line, Palace de Versailles, Seattle Spheres, Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, Ruth Bancroft Garden & Nursery, Jardin Majorelle, Keukenhof, and Kew Gardens.
Where is Butchart Gardens located?
Butchart Gardens is located in Brentwood Bay, British Columbia, Canada.
What is unique about the Seattle Spheres?
The Seattle Spheres are unique because they are part of Amazon’s office complex and feature a futuristic design filled with thousands of plants from around the world.
Can you visit the Palace de Versailles gardens without entering the palace?
Yes, visitors can access the gardens of the Palace de Versailles without entering the palace, although there may be a separate fee for garden entry.
When is the best time to visit Keukenhof?
The best time to visit Keukenhof is during the spring, typically from mid-March to mid-May, when the tulips and other flowers are in full bloom.
Are there any famous gardens in the USA?
Yes, some famous gardens in the USA include the High Line in New York City, Ruth Bancroft Garden & Nursery in San Francisco, and the Seattle Spheres in Washington.
What can you see at Jardin Majorelle?
At Jardin Majorelle, visitors can see a stunning collection of exotic plants, vibrant blue buildings, and a museum dedicated to Berber culture.
How many botanical gardens are there around the world?
There are over 1,775 botanical gardens around the world, each offering unique collections of plants and garden designs.