What is a garden? Is it a tranquil place to relax, somewhere to admire the natural beauty that surrounds us or a symbol of our ability to shape nature to our liking? Take a stroll with us as we explore five of the most beautiful gardens in the world, and discover why they were made.
Monet’s Garden, Giverny, France
There’s probably no other garden on Earth that’s been painted as often as Monet’s Garden, located in the idyllic French town of Giverny, just one hour out of Paris. Strolling through this magnificent garden – home to the familiar sights of the green Japanese bridge, lily ponds and the grand provincial house – is a colourful French dream.
Villa Lante, Rome, Italy
These beautiful gardens at Bagnaia are the work of Cardinal Gambara, whose love of outdoor living and al fresco dining inspired the elaborate hedges and Roman architecture. A wander around this masterpiece reveals the relationship between nature and humankind, and how the latter is able to influence the former.
Château de Versailles, Versailles, France
The gardens at Versailles are perhaps some of the grandest in Europe, and were owned by a string of French monarchs, including Louis XIV (husband to Marie Antoinette). The gardens spread over 800 hectares and were landscaped by Andre Le Notre in the classic French style. Water for the decadent fountains had to be directed especially from the river, and were turned on only when the king was in sight.
Sanssouci Palace Gardens, Potsdam, Germany
This World Heritage–listed property, formerly the summer palace of Frederik the Great, King of Prussia, houses the baroque-style Sanssouci Gardens. Inspired by Versailles, the garden includes 3000 fruit trees, a Chinese House and a picturesque rococo pavilion, painted in blue and gold.
The Majorelle Garden, Marrakech, Morocco
This two-and-a-half acre botanical garden is one of the most visited sites in Morocco. Strolling through shady lanes, you’ll be amongst exotic trees and plants, and bubbling streams and pools filled with water lilies and lotus flowers. With lots of Moorish charm and a hint of Art Deco, this enchanting garden took French artist Jacques Majorelle forty years to complete.
Have you visited any of these beautiful gardens? What is your favourite garden in the world?
