All I can say is “My God… this may be the most beautiful place on earth.”
I know that words will not do this place any justice. This sumptuous 80-acre display of floral color just outside of Conwy is one of Britain’s best gardens (at least Rick Steves’ says so! ) and is worth a must visit for gardeners and nature lovers.
Jackie and I would not be able to accurately identify more than a half-dozen flowers (think Roses, Tulips… I am already running out of examples). But even for us non-garden people, this place is extraordinary.
Originally the private garden of the stately Bodnant Hall, this lush landscape was donated by the Aberconway family (who still live in the house) to the National Trust in 1949.
The map you receive upon entering helps you navigate these huge grounds. One of the unique things about this garden is its topography – there is a gully that runs across the property that separates the gardens 2/3rd to the hall side, and 1/3rd to the hill across the gully. Through these bottoms are some remarkable gardens – including California Sequoia that were planted in the mid 1800’s. One was just knocked down a few months ago in a winter storm.: -(
The highlight for many is the famous Laburnum Arch – a 180-foot-long canopy made of bright-yellow laburnum , hanging like stalactites over the heads of garden lovers who stroll beneath it. We were so incredibly lucky to arrive just days after the bloom began – and hit it at its peak. Make SURE you watch this video of my walk down the Archway:
The garden is also famous for its magnolias, rhododendrons, camellias, and roses – and for the way that the buildings of the estate complement the carefully planned landscaping.
All with a backdrop of rolling hills and craggy Welsh mountains.
I have a bunch of pictures – so I’ll load some more but think I’ll break this into three parts… will include some videos as well. So for all my garden loving friends… or nature lovers… or just people who appreciate beauty however it presents itself… be prepared for a full meal. 🙂
Make sure to come back for part 2 and part 3! 🙂