Floral Wonders of South Africa
Join us and experience the breathtaking sites, famous gardens and multicultural charm of South Africa. Journey to Karoo Desert for an exclusive look at the Karoo Botanical Garden. Explore Soweto, birthplace of Nelson Mandela and search out the “Big Five” during an open-air safari game drive in Kruger National Park. Explore the Walter Sisulu National Botanic Garden, named for the courageous anti-apartheid activist. Enjoy private tours of the Harold Porter Botanical Garden in Betty’s Bay and the acclaimed Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden where you take part in an exclusive seminar of your choice! Indulge in a wine tasting dinner in the Winelands region and travel through the spectacular Drakensburg Mountain Range. Enjoy natural marvels including Stellenbosch Botanical Garden, Featherbed Nature Reserve, and Wilderness National Park.
Gardens of American History
Embark on a historical journey featuring some of America’s most sublime gardens. Explore the famed Nolen Greenhouses of the New York Botanical Garden. Learn about the fascinating history, design and horticultural elements at the High Line garden. Meet the Master Gardener at Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello. At the historic estate of Dumbarton Oaks, experience the Ondine Garden, Johnson Addition’s surrounding garden, and the Dell – all areas not open to the public. Stroll the Ladew Topiary Gardens with the Head of Gardens. See the stunning Chanticleer Garden, also known as the Pleasure Garden. Visit the United States Botanic Garden and Hillwood Estate and Gardens. Along the way, see the sights in New York and Philadelphia. Experience Shenandoah National Park and travel back in time at Colonial Williamsburg, home of the Gardens of Gentility.
New Zealand’s Garden Route
This once-in-a-lifetime garden experience offers the perfect blend of New Zealand’s horticultural beauty and stunning scenery. Tour three private country gardens in Queenstown on an exclusive expert led experience. Discover the house and meticulous gardens of Kate Sheppard, the celebrated leader of the women’s suffrage movement in New Zealand. Visit the Hamilton Botanic Gardens for an expert led tour then a talk with the Director Peter Sergel. Taste fine New Zealand wines in a garden with a local expert. Venture to New Zealand’s largest underground wine cave. Partake in morning tea and a tour of the stunning Gwavas Homestead. Dine at the Skyline Restaurant in Queenstown. Experience breathtaking views as the TranzAlpine train whisks you away through deep gorges and past rugged snowcapped mountains. Discover the beauty of the famed private Ayrlies Garden and the Christchurch Botanical Gardens. And that’s only the start of this grand journey.
Eternal Gardens of Rome
Begin your garden adventure in Rome with a Vatican garden expert who leads you through the fountains and sculptures dating back to the Renaissance era. Take in the stunning views of the gardens of Villa d’Este. Tour the gardens at Villa Lante, influenced by the Mannerist phase of Italian Renaissance. Wander through the impressive Orto Botanico of Rome, whose gardens were once part of the Palazzo Corsini. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Giardino e Rovine de Ninfa when the gardens are open exclusively for your group – an expert guide will uncover the history and styles of these extraordinary gardens. Enjoy your final day in ancient Ninfa as you venture through the quiet streets with an expert guide and immerse yourself in a tranquil garden framed by the city’s classical ruins, opened exclusively for your group!
Portugal’s Gardens featuring the Azores and Lisbon
Join us as we uncover the exotic gardens of Quinta da Regaleira with landscape architect Gerald Luckhurst. Explore magical Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site and charming Lisbon, Europe’s second-oldest capital city. Immerse yourself among the 3,000 species of plants in Terra Nostra Botanical Park, where you’ll have the chance to see the largest camellias collection in the World! Enjoy a private tour of the royal gardens of Queluz Palace, known as the “Versailles of Portugal” and romantic Antonio Borges Botanical Gardens, the largest municipal garden in the Azores. Marvel at the fascinating landscapes of Fire Lake and the twin lakes of Sete Cidades and be surrounded by high mountains and luxurious vegetation. Explore the geothermal wonderland of Furnas Valley with its steaming hot springs and geysers. Enjoy tasting local pineapple, tea, liqueurs and lunch cooked by the volcanic earth’s heat. Enjoy a wonderful climate, great hospitality, food and wine, historical sights, breathtaking landscapes, and marvellous gardens.
Gardens and Villas of the Italian Lakes
Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty and incredible history of Northern Italy on this horticultural adventure. Join a member of the Cicogna Mozzoni family on a discovery of the stunning gardens of the Villa Cicogna Mozzoni. Travel via boat to experience the glorious gardens of both Isola Madre and Isola Bella, the treasures of the Borromeo family. Tour the extraordinary 18th century Villa Serbelloni and gardens. Cross the border into Switzerland where a local expert waits to lead you through the gardens of the Villa Heleneum. A cableway to the Alpinum Garden offers unmatched insight into unique alpine plants and spectacular views of the famed Lake Region. Experience the glory of Venice, the paradise of Como and the beauty of Lake Maggiore. Throughout your journey, delight in the local wines, charming towns and enchanting gardens that make this part of the world special.
Andalucia: Land of Castles, Palaces and Gardens
Set off in the land of castles, palaces, and gardens where you’ll enjoy reserved seating at a flamenco performance, and have the chance to visit 3 UNESCO World Heritage sites including: the Cathedral of Seville and Alhambra palace, a romantic hilltop palace fortress. Begin your trip in Granada, composed of romantic gardens and nazarie orchards. Join a garden architect tour of the Generalife Gardens, the most well-known gardens in Spain. Visit Seville’s beautiful Maria Luisa Park, the magnificent Royal Palaces of Alcazar and its many beautiful gardens. In Jerez de la Frontera, the heart of sherry wine country, visit Tio Pepe for a tour and tasting. Experience the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art’s palace and gardens before the artistry of a “dancing horses” equestrian ballet. Stroll through the gardens of Murillo, see Ronda’s Alameda del Tajo Gardens, set on the edge of the El Tajo Gorge, and enjoy a walking tour of Santa Cruz Quarter highlights with its bright flowers, white-washed buildings and winding streets! This 7 day, 10 meal excursion is a mecca of gardens, palaces and castles with regional wine included in every dinner!
The Beauty of Japan
Embark on a journey to Japan, a nation internationally acclaimed for its gardens and appreciation of horticulture. From Tokyo to Kyoto, temples to stunning gardens, this exclusive tour offers a better understanding and appreciation for this East Asian land. Visit two of the Big Three Gardens of Japan, several other well-known gardens, and some handpicked favourites of the locals. Expert historians provide fascinating background on Japan’s history, Geisha life, and the skill of wood block printmaking. Additional highlights include travel via the famous Shinkansen, or “bullet train,” to Nagano and a cable car ride in Hakone for spectacular views of Mt. Fuji.
Gardens of the Loire
Set out on this magnificent tour in Paris, where you will experience the “City of Lights.” Spend an afternoon at King Louis XIV’s magnificent Palace and Gardens of Versailles. Stroll the incredible gardens, 40 years in the making, and admire the “Grandes Eaux” majestic musical fountain show. Journey south to the Loire Valley and delight the senses at Chateau de Chaumont-sur-Loire’s International Garden Festival. Enjoy private guided tours of Chateau de Courances, and Chateau de Villandry, featuring stunning gardens and spectacular sights. Explore Chateau de Chenonceau and enjoy tea on site. Sample wine in Vouvray. Stroll through the romantic gardens at Plessis Sasnieres as a guest of the owner and delight in the countryside setting. Then head to Giverny, the tranquil gardens which inspired Monet’s most famous works.
The Beauty of Britain
Revel in the beauty of England and Scotland as you set forth on a horticultural discovery. Enjoy an expert led tour at Wisley, the Royal Horticultural Society’s stunning flagship garden. Savour morning coffee and a private tour at stately Castle Howard before it opens to the public. Visit Windsor Castle, the official residence of the Royal family. Explore Cambridge and the Cambridge Botanic Garden. Stroll the narrow lanes of York and see the mythic Sherwood Forest. Visit Harlow Carr, the splendid RHS garden in North Yorkshire for an exclusive workshop on garden design. An expert guides you through the spectacular Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh before you complete your trip with a rollicking evening of Scottish entertainment and traditional dishes. From landmark gardens and country estates to cosmopolitan London, experience Britain from a new perspective.
The Gardens of London featuring the Chelsea Flower Show
Join us on a cultural tour of Britain, highlighted by the annual Chelsea Flower Show. Enjoy ‘members only’ opening day at this spectacular event! Gather together during a welcome reception with your hosts, the Royal Horticultural Society. Visit Windsor Castle, the official residence of the Royal family. Take a locally-guided panoramic tour of London and choose the perfect spot from a “menu” of the city’s great restaurants. Stroll the gardens of Hampton Court Palace, favoured home of Henry VIII. Visit Kew, home of the Royal Botanic Gardens – truly one of the world’s most impressive horticultural collections. And complete your trip with a private gala dinner hosted at the Royal Horticultural Society flagship garden, Wisley, with cocktails in its world renowned GlassHouse.
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