Spring and summer bring vibrant blooms, buzzing bees, and spectacular gardens around the world. As someone who loves flowers (despite lacking a green thumb), I always seek out beautiful botanical gardens and floral destinations when I travel. Here are a few of my favorite flower-inspired experiences, along with some client favorites.
(Submitted by Annamarie Gebar)
KEUKENHOF GARDENS– AMSTERDAM
Known as the “crown jewel” of botanical gardens, Keukenhof Gardens is a must for flower lovers. Each spring, more than 7 million bulbs are hand-planted and bloom for only 6–8 weeks before the gardens close for the season. I recently took members of my Lake Geneva Travel Club there, and it did not disappoint us. Walking through 80 acres of over 800 varieties of tulips, surrounded by the fragrance of nearby hyacinth farms, is an unforgettable experience. If you love flowers, gardening or art, a Tulip Time trip to the Netherlands deserves a spot on your must-do travel list.
(Submitted by Annamarie Gebar)
MONET’S GARDEN– GIVERNY, FRANCE
A visit to Giverny to see Claude Monet’s House and Gardens feels like stepping into one of his renowned paintings. The famous lily pond and Japanese bridge are even more stunning in person. Monet carefully designed the gardens to inspire his artwork, with strategically placed colorful flowers and trees creating a dreamlike setting. The Japanese Water Garden and his traditional flower garden are both equally impressive. Tucked in the charming village of Giverny, it’s the perfect day trip from Paris and can be a spot to soak up a whole day of summer sunshine surrounded by this work of landscaping art.
LAVENDER FIELDS OF PROVENCE, FRANCE
From June through August, Provence transforms into rolling fields of purple lavender as far as the eye can see. Visitors can enjoy lavender picnics, essential oil distillery tours, and cooking classes featuring culinary lavender. The region is also a popular stop on European River Cruises and can be paired with wine-or culinary-focused specialty itineraries to round out the experience.
BOTANICAL GARDENS IN LONDON, ENGLAND
England offers countless beautiful gardens, especially around London. One hidden gem not on the normal list of London attractions is The Savill Garden, a 35-acre garden established in 1932 featuring interconnected gardens, exotic plants, and excellent birdwatching. Nestled near Windsor, it’s the perfect day trip to escape the hustle and bustle of busy London. Another favorite is the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with more than 50,000 living plants. My favorites are the rock garden and the Princess of Wales Conservatory, but there is something there for everyone. The arboretum is a tree lover’s paradise. For the ultimate floral experience, visit London in May for the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, the world’s most famous flower show which started out with just a small tent in 1913. Once you experience it in person, you’ll understand why it draws people from all over the world.
GARDEN GETAWAYS
From tulip fields to lavender farms, breathtaking flower gardens can be found all over the world. If you’re dreaming of a garden-inspired getaway, I’d love to help you plan the perfect flower-themed itinerary.
Annamarie Gebar is a Certified Travel Agent living in Wiliams Bay, WI. She specializes in European Travel and is the founder of the Lake Geneva Ladies Travel Club.
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