Getting in touch with nature is becoming more important for family-oriented people who want to get back to a simple life and enjoy the beauty of their surroundings. Natural and created gardens are growing in popularity. Here are some favourites, listed in no particular order.
Aswan Botanical Garden
Egypt is so full of historical resources, that the natural beauty can easily be overlooked. Travelers who visit the Cradle of Civilization should be sure to stop by the Aswan Botanical Garden. This center offers flora from local, national, and even international sources. The island was established in the early 19th century but was not immediately inhabited. Visit early and often, the bird and other wildlife are most active in the early morning hours.
Claude Monet Garden at Giverny
There are so many tourist attractions in France, that it will take newcomers several months or even years to explore the area. Giverny itself is a small but lush area and it is well worth the visit to Monet's actual garden area. Local flora and fauna are designed to encourage mindful walking and mediation. The garden was specifically designed by the artist to produce bright blooms in complimentary colours. Monet even considered the changing seasons and how particular plants, shrubs, and trees would evolve over time. Visitors are welcome to tour the grounds from March through November.
Aburi Botanic Garden
Fast growing Accra is becoming a center of business and activity across many industries. The Aburi Botanic Garden center offers visitors a way to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of this lush and fertile ground. This garden was created with a purpose and has helped builders understand the importance of replenishing the natural forest areas. The beautiful and majestically tall Ficus trees and local flora are put on display for tourists and locals alike. The conservationists also provide information on how cocoa harvesting could change the dynamics of Southern Ghana. The garden is open year-round, and visitors find multiple photo opportunities, especially around sunset.
Gardens of the Alhambra
The architecture and courtyards alone are reason enough to visit Spain's Gardens of the Alhambra. The elaborate area will take several hours to explore, so visitors should plan to arrive early and spend the day. There is truly something for everyone to enjoy at this fortress city turned tourist attraction. History buffs will enjoy being in the presence of one of the most effective garrisons of all time. Religious and archaeological connoisseurs will want to take advantage of the castle tours and note the Islamic influence of traditional architecture. All visitors will appreciate the fragrant and romantic gardens featuring many different species of plants, flowers, and grasses.
Keukenhof Tulip Gardens
One of the most amazing features of any botanical conservation areas is the ability to produce robust plants from unknown seedlings. The Keukenhof 2020 Tulip Gardens near Amsterdam, Holland has proven that they are the champions in this area. Organizers have produced over 800 different varieties of tulips. Each Spring, these hearty varieties awaken with a colourful and fragrant blast that brings untold pleasures to visitors. Nature lovers walk among 32 hectares and learn about unique species of tulips and other award-winning flowers. There is simply not enough to be said about this wonderful paradise, it must be experienced in person. Over a million visitors are expected to get a ticket for Keukenhof in 2020. Last year more there were more than 1,5 million people payed a visit. Visitors are eagerly awaiting the Keukenhof 2020 grand opening.
The Butchart Gardens
North America offers a plethora of federally protected reserves that protect everything from forests to wildlife. Throughout the United States of America and Canada, visitors can explore a number of different landscapes. Each area features a new and interesting view of the skyline, the earth, and the inhabitants therein. Canada's Butchart Gardens was donated by the original Butchart family, who were instrumental in establishing the Tod Inlet area on Vancouver Island. Originally a functioning quarry, the garden area is now a national landmark. A flourishing Japanese garden area features dozens of native varieties that have been transplanted to North America. Visitors can enjoy the beauty and ever-changing landscapes throughout the year and see a different set of flora and fauna during each visit.
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Few areas are able to display their history and future like Cape Town, South Africa. Located in the foreground of the sloping walls of Table Mountain, this beautifully designed garden consistently draws crowds. Kirstenbosch was intended to gradually sprawl across the area and incorporate local plant species without any specimen invading or overtaking the natural beauty. Trails are available for walkers or cyclists to enjoy, and bird watching is a favourite pastime for locals and visitors. More than 100 varieties that frequent the gardens throughout the year.
Sissinghurst Castle Garden
English gardens are the quintessential vision of the Victorian era. Visitors to the center are instantly transformed to a time when high tea and evening garden parties were a regular occurrence. The hard work began around 1930 by moderately known English poet Vita Sackville-West. She and her husband Harold Nicolson laboured over this project privately for decades and produced award winning roses, among countless other varieties of local and international flora. The grounds reek of untold history, scandalous secrets, and unrealized dreams.
Shalimar Gardens of Kashmir
India has much to offer in the way of rich culture and unexpected wildlife. The Shalimar Gardens, meaning "light of the moon," is situated perfectly near Dal Lake and creates a natural irrigation plan that keeps local flora and fauna accurately watered and nourished. The Islamic Gardens are conducive to mediation, personal journeys, and learning more about the local culture.
Villa d'Este Garden
Tivoli may not be the top attraction when tourists are planning to visit Rome and the surrounding areas. Since the early 15th century, this natural oasis has been the home to peace and war, monks, and outlaws. Natural barriers and handmade retaining walls all come together to create the perfect balance. Fountains and secret pockets make this romantic garden area a favourite place for locals to explore history and mythology. Many just choose to silently take in the sights, sounds, and smells of the surrounding beauty. Early morning visitors can take advantage of dewy grounds and opening buds.
Whether you are visiting a government sponsored preserve or a completely natural oasis, you are sure to relax your mind and replenish your soul by visiting any one of these fabulous gardens around the world.
Did you know that some of these botanical gardens can be very harmful for the nature outside these gardens? There are many cases about plants from botanical gardens that invade the native plants outside the gardens.