The top seven intriguing gardens across the globe
Whilst concrete jungles are fun (New York, New York), there’s nothing like sitting back, relaxing and soaking up nature. Fortunately, there are loads of parks delicately sprinkled around the globe for your enjoyment. Here's your go-to garden bucket list sorted.
1. Villa d'Este, Tivoli, Italy
Embark on your garden journey and tick this off your list. First established back in the 16th Century, the Villa d'Este has been influenced by the Renaissance period which is evident in its garden design.
The fountains are to die for and you can literally spend hours here wandering ‘round mystified by its wonderful greenery. The perfect spot to unwind, relax and enjoy the peaceful gardens, pick up a soy chai latte and soak it all up.
Piazza Trento, 5, 00019 Tivoli RM, Italy
2. Peterhof Park and Gardens, Russia
This grand and beautiful garden area is absolutely breathtaking. It was first built during the reign of Peter the Great and established in the 18th Century. During your journey through the gardens take note of several palaces, gardens and parks, in addition to the unmissable fountains (note: these are painted gold!) To get the full experience, allow for five hours to stop and smell the roses… literally.
Razvodnaya St., 2, Peterhof, St. Petersburg198516, Russia
3. Dubai Miracle Garden, United Arab Emirates
The architectural and futuristic vibes in Dubai will never cease to impress, and the same goes for the Dubai Miracle Garden. One of the biggest gardens in the world, this spot has approximately 100 million species of plant growing within its walls… which makes it all the more miraculous. Dubai being Dubai, the garden also has insanely-shaped features including a floating tap and a walkway created with hearts made from plants. Note: Because Dubai gets so hot during the summer, the garden is closed during the sizzling period.
Al Barsha South 3, Barsha,Dubailand Area - Dubai - United Arab Emirates.
4. Keukenhof Gardens, The Netherlands
If you’re in the Netherlands (and you want to extend your trip with some first-hand Dutch culture), then these gardens are for you.
Filled with colourful tulips and flowers with a backdrop of greenery and windmills, it makes you ask yourself, is this place actually real? In fact, this place has a staggering seven million flowers in bloom, which will definitely stand-out in your Instagram feed. If you’ve visited once before (and need another reason), take note; the gardens are redesigned annually.
Stationsweg 166A, 2161 AM Lisse, Netherlands
5. Versailles, Paris
The Versailles in Paris probably has one of the world’s most recognisable gardens. It’s had an obvious influence on other gardens and art alike with the stunning beauty originally commissioned by Louix XIV in 1661 (note: it took 40 years to finish.) Make the most of your Versailles time and watch the musical water fountain show which is on from 3.30-5pm each day. It’s totally worth it, as you’ll see the fountains come to life (aka another reason why words can’t do this place justice).
Place d'Armes, 78000 Versailles, France
6. Saihō-ji, Japan
Saihō-ji, Japan is famed for its moss garden. The simply enchanting place has 120 different types of moss covering the floor which creates a peaceful and eerie atmosphere. You will definitely feel like you’re in some kind of historical homage, especially since Prince Shotoku used to live here in 574-622 AD.
We advise you to visit mid-June to mid-July (but only after you’ve written to the temple beforehand and asked for permission.)
6 Matsuojingatanicho, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 615-8286, Japan
7. Summer Palace, Beijing, China
Burrow yourself deep into these breathtaking gardens full of culture and history. The traditional architecture of the palace is found throughout the garden, in addition to homes lakes, gardens and palaces which too hold very interesting history. Some of China’s communist party key figures and emperors have stayed here in the past also.
19 Xinjiangongmen Rd, Haidian, Beijing, China
This article originally appeared on 7Travel.
