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If you’re planning a trip to Europe, don’t miss out on the chance to see some of the continent’s most beautiful gardens. From the Alhambra in Spain to the Gardens of Villandry in France, there are plenty of options to choose from. Another garden that should definitely be on your list is the Schönbrunn Palace Gardens in Vienna, Austria. These baroque gardens feature over 1,400 species of plants and flowers, as well as several stunning fountains and statues. And while you’re in the area, you can also take a train from Vienna to Prague and see the beautiful gardens of the Palace of Versailles, the Boboli Gardens in Florence, and the Keukenhof Gardens in the Netherlands.
With so many options to choose from, a guided tour through Europe’s popular routes will be a fantastic idea for any garden enthusiast. Here are some of the finest gardens of Europe that promise to be a fantastic sight for any tourists.
Villa d’Este
Villa d’Este is a stunning Renaissance-era garden located in Tivoli, Italy. Built in the 16th century, the gardens are known for their elaborate fountains, terraces, and water features. The garden’s main attraction is the Fountain of Neptune, a stunning masterpiece of hydraulic engineering that shoots water up to 20 meters high.
Visitors can also explore the various terraces, grottoes, and paths that wind through the gardens, as they offer picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.
Versailles Gardens
The Versailles Gardens are among the most famous gardens in Europe, and for good reason. Located in Versailles, France, the gardens were designed in the 17th century by the famed landscape architect André Le Nôtre. Covering an area of over 800 hectares, the gardens feature elaborate fountains, statues, and flowerbeds, as well as a vast network of canals and water features. Travelers can stroll along the grand avenues, explore the various gardens, and take in the stunning views of the Palace of Versailles.
Kew Gardens
Kew Gardens, located in southwest London, is one of the most important botanical gardens in the world. Founded in 1759, the gardens consist of an impressive collection of over 50,000 plant species. Visitors to the Kew Gardens can explore its various glasshouses, which house exotic plants from around the world, or stroll along the tree-lined avenues and discover the various gardens and landscapes. Kew Gardens also offers a range of educational programs and events, making it an ideal destination for tourists with children.
Alhambra Gardens
The Alhambra Gardens, located in the historic city of Granada, Spain, are a wonderful example of Islamic garden design. Built in the 13th century, the gardens are large, covering an area of 17 hectares and feature a variety of courtyards, pools, fountains, and ornamental gardens. Tourists come to admire its various terraces and patios, taking in the intricate tilework, delicate water features, and fragrant flowers. The gardens offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and city, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Granada. Hop on the train from Madrid to Barcelona to experience this iconic garden along with several other magnificent gardens across Spain.
Gardens of Marqueyssac
The Gardens of Marqueyssac, located in the Dordogne region of France, are a breathtaking example of 19th-century garden design. The gardens cover an area of over 22 hectares and feature a series of winding paths that lead visitors through a maze of boxwood hedges and topiaries. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside, including the Dordogne River and the Chateau de Beynac. The gardens’ attractions also include several activities and events, including nighttime candlelit tours and bird-watching expeditions.
La Concepcion Botanical Gardens
La Concepcion Botanical Gardens are a beautiful blend of historical and contemporary garden design. Located in the city of Malaga, Spain, the gardens feature a range of exotic plants and trees from around the world, as well as a series of cascading waterfalls, fountains, and pools. Its visitors can explore the various garden sections, including the Bamboo Garden, the Palm Grove, and the Tropical Garden. The gardens also offer a range of educational programs and guided tours, making it an ideal destination for families and nature enthusiasts.
Keukenhof Gardens
The Keukenhof Gardens in Netherlands are one of the largest flower gardens in the world, covering an area of 32 hectares. Known as the “Garden of Europe,” Keukenhof is famous for its magnificent displays of tulips, daffodils, and other spring-blooming bulbs. Take a stroll along the winding pathways, admire the vibrant colors and fragrances, and take in the stunning landscapes. The gardens are open from mid-March to mid-May each year and attract millions of visitors from around the world.
Gardens of Villandry
The Gardens of Villandry, located in the Loire Valley of France, are a stunning example of French Renaissance garden design. Since the 16th century when it was first constructed, the gardens have delighted thousands of visitors with their series of geometrically arranged flower beds, topiaries, and water features. You can explore its various garden sections, including the Sun Garden, the Water Garden, and the Maze. The gardens also host a range of events and activities throughout the year, including classical music concerts and themed garden festivals.
These gardens, along with several others across Europe, offer visitors a chance to escape into a world of natural beauty, art, and history. Whether you are a garden lover or simply looking for a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life, these gardens are sure to provide an unforgettable experience.