Ready to escape into blooming beauty? From fairytale landscapes in Ireland to sun-drenched cacti in Morocco, these stunning gardens are a feast for the senses. Pack your walking shoes, grab your camera, and explore the world’s most breathtaking botanical wonders—one petal at a time.
Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, England
London’s largest UNESCO World Heritage Site is a dream for plant lovers. Wander through the breathtaking Temperate House—the world’s largest Victorian glasshouse—home to 1,200 exotic species from across the globe. Find your zen in a traditional Japanese tea garden, and then explore the Treetop Walkway for a bird’s-eye view of the arboretum’s 11,000 towering trees.
🌿 Nearby adventure: After exploring Kew, take a scenic Thames River Cruise to Richmond for charming riverside pubs, or visit Hampton Court Palace to see King Henry VIII’s legendary gardens and maze.
Powerscourt Gardens, Ireland
Just outside Dublin, Powerscourt Gardens feels like stepping into a storybook landscape. Surrounding an elegant 18th-century mansion, these 47 acres are a masterpiece of design. Stroll along Italian-style terraces with sweeping views of a shimmering lake, wander through the Rose Garden, or soak in the serene beauty of Japan-inspired pathways. The pièce de résistance? Ireland’s tallest waterfall, cascading 398 feet down rugged cliffs.
🌿 Nearby adventure: Hike the stunning Sugarloaf Mountain, just minutes away, or visit the charming village of Enniskerry for cozy cafés and local Irish crafts.
Butchart Gardens, Canada
If you’ve ever wanted to step into a living postcard, Butchart Gardens on Vancouver Island is the place. This 55-acre floral paradise bursts with color, from the vibrant blooms of the Sunken Garden to the fragrant Rose Garden, where 30 archways drip with delicate petals. Sip homemade gelato in the Italian Garden, and don’t miss the dreamy Mediterranean Garden, filled with exotic plants and a stunning pond.
🌿 Nearby adventure: Take a whale-watching tour from Victoria’s Inner Harbour, or stroll through the charming streets of Victoria to explore boutique shops, afternoon tea, and stunning waterfront views.
Villa d’Este, Italy
Prepare to be dazzled by the Renaissance splendor of Villa d’Este’s hillside gardens in Tivoli. Cascading down two slopes, this 16th-century masterpiece is renowned for its enchanting fountains, including the mesmerizing Fountain of Neptune, where water theatrically tumbles down grand terraces. Wander past shimmering reflection pools, cypress-lined pathways, and a landscape straight out of a fairytale.
🌿 Nearby adventure: Make a day of it by visiting the ancient ruins of Hadrian’s Villa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or enjoy a leisurely meal in one of Tivoli’s traditional trattorias.
Dumbarton Oaks, USA
Hidden in the heart of Washington, D.C.’s Georgetown neighborhood, Dumbarton Oaks is a secret garden escape. Wander through the Rose Garden, where over 900 fragrant blooms paint the air with sweet perfume. Find tranquility in the Elliptical Garden, a peaceful hideaway perfect for quiet reflection. Before you leave, explore the Dumbarton Oaks Museum, where medieval treasures and a grand Steinway piano take center stage.
🌿 Nearby adventure: Explore Georgetown’s historic cobblestone streets, grab a cupcake from Baked & Wired, or take a kayak out on the Potomac River for a new perspective of D.C.’s skyline.
Gardens of the Villa Éphrussi de Rothschild, France
Perched high above the French Riviera, this breathtaking villa is surrounded by nine themed gardens, each offering its own dreamy escape. Meander through the French Garden, where 100-year-old olive trees and sculpted hedges set a regal scene. Unwind in the Spanish Garden, a Mediterranean oasis with tranquil ponds and pomegranate trees. And for a whimsical touch, visit the Stone Garden, where ancient gargoyles peek out from blooming azaleas and rhododendrons.
🌿 Nearby adventure: Stroll along the scenic trails of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, or enjoy a glass of rosé at a seaside café in Villefranche-sur-Mer.
North Carolina Arboretum, USA
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the North Carolina Arboretum is a Southern Appalachian treasure. Wander through vibrant native wildflowers, lose yourself in the National Native Azalea Collection, and admire the intricate beauty of the Bonsai Exhibition Garden, where miniature trees reflect the stunning mountain landscapes.
🌿 Nearby adventure: Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway for breathtaking views, or explore the breweries and arts scene in Asheville, just minutes away.
Jardin Majorelle, Morocco
Step into a painter’s dream at Jardin Majorelle. Originally designed by French artist Jacques Majorelle and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent, this vibrant oasis is an explosion of color and culture. Walk along rust-red paths framed by cobalt-blue buildings, emerald-green fountains, and bright yellow pottery. With the scent of exotic flowers and the soothing sound of trickling water, it’s a true Moroccan escape.
🌿 Nearby adventure: Visit the Yves Saint Laurent Museum next door for a look at the designer’s iconic work, or wander through Marrakech’s Jemaa el-Fnaa for bustling souks, street food, and vibrant energy.
