World’s Most Beautiful Gardens

With spring in the air, it seems only fitting to shed your peacoat, grab your shades and head out into the sun to enjoy Mother Nature’s bounty. If seeking inspiration for your own home garden, make a point to visit one of the places below, considered some of the world’s most beautiful gardens.

© Alexandre Fagundes De Fagundes | Dreamstime

Butchart Gardens, Canada

In Victoria, British Columbia, this multi-style garden flourishes on the site of a former limestone quarry. Hedges and flora fill the space where both Japanese and Mediterranean inspiration bloom.

Villandry Chateau of the Loire Valley © Alison Cornford-matheson | Dreamstime

Villandry, France

Among the majestic chateaux that make up the Loire Valley in France, the gardens of Villandry stand out supremely. A romantic hedge maze spills into a color-coordinated vegetable garden (appropriately named the Kitchen Garden) all with the fairytale castle in the background.

© Elena G. | Dreamstime

Daitokuji, Japan

Visiting Japan without visiting a garden is akin to traveling to Rome and forgoing the Colosseum. Tranquility and zen abound in Daitokuji Gardens where temples and sand gardens emit peace throughout Kyoto and beyond.

© Dorien Windt | Dreamstime

Keukenhof, the Netherlands

With limited hours, a visit to this garden in the land of tulips and windmills must be meticulously planned. During peak bloom in April, rent a bicycle and breathe in the aromas of natural Dutch treasures.