Five Wonderful Gardens in Ireland

Nowhere is the Emerald Isle of Ireland more emerald than in its gardens. Though often overshadowed by England’s more famous gardens, Ireland has its share of them itself which come in all sizes, shapes and terrains. Visiting an Irish garden can be a way to experience history, a way to commune with nature and can provide a wonderful way to get away from it all for prices ranging from inexpensive to free. Here are five Irish gardens that truly stand out.

Kylemore Abbey, County Galway

Though Kylemore Abbey is known more the splendor of the Abbey itself, it also boasts one of the most beautiful walled gardens in Ireland. The six acre garden was created at the same time of the Abbey’s construction in 1867 by Mitchell Henry. The only Irish garden built in a bog, the Kylemore Abbey Gardens also provide wonderful panoramic views out over the water. In addition to its original Victorian plant species, the gardens, still tended by the Benedictine community, boast both herbs and vegetables that end up in the kitchen of the Abbey. Beyond the gardens, the 1,000 acre estate allows you to take many beautiful strolls along the shores of the Lakes of Pollacappul and Maladrolaun, as well as offering some great mountain biking. Otters and foxes can be spied, along with bats. The closest accommodation can be found in the charming village of Letterfrack, just five kilometres to the west and also overlooking the water.

Mount Usher, County Wicklow

Also overlooking water, this time the banks of the River Vartry, Mount Usher boasts plant life from around the planet, designed to provide a spectacular show all year round. Something’s always blooming at Mount Usher, and the crystal river waters are always there to add to the beauty. It will come as no surprise that the gardens were voted “The Most Romantic Garden to Visit in the Republic of Ireland” by the BBC’s Gardener’s World Magazine in 2010, among other accolades. Rusty-red Japanese Maple, a petite Wedding Cake Tree and Himalayan Magnolia are just several of the fascinating species you’ll see. And if viewing all this beauty has worked up an appetite, head to the Avoca Garden Café. When it’s time to look for nearby lodgings, you’ll find them in Wicklow.

Irish National Stud, County Kildare

Thought most visitors to the Irish National Stud are there for the horses, garden enthusiasts can use the horses as a romantic backdrop to some pretty spectacular gardens. Established in 1946, the Stud offers two separate gardens that are quite different in nature. First there are the 20 stops of the Zen-like Japanese Gardens. From the Tunnel of Ignorance to the Hill of Ambition, these lovely gardens feature 200 year-old bonsai trees and rocks from Mount Vesuvius. Then there’s the wilder St. Fiachra’s Garden, named for the patron saint of Irish gardeners and much less manicured. Here, beyond the underground stone entrance, you can explore four acres of a wild Irish landscape full of lakes and monastic beehive huts. While you’re there, be sure to stop in at the Horse Museum. For an extra treat, you can stay at the nearby Lord Edward Hotel in Kildare.

Garinish, County Cork

If you’d like your green surrounded by blue, Garinish Island is set out in Glengarriff Harbour, making it one of Ireland’s best-kept secrets. Created over 80 years ago by Edwardian garden designer Harold Peto, on this tiny island of 37 acres, Garinish’s gardens boasts a strangely subtropical micro-climate which allows plants from around the planet to survive and thrive. The self-guided tour takes you by some stunning rhododendrons and azaleas, and there’s also a cozy coffee shop. Also known by its Irish name, Ilnacullin (island of holly), the island belongs to the Office of Public Works and is open from March 1 to October 31. Though there are no accommodations on the island itself, you can find some nice hotels on shore in the town of Glengarriff.

Farmleigh, County Dublin

So say you’re stuck in Dublin with no time to explore outside the city. No problem. Just head to Farmleigh. Purchased from the Guinness family by the Irish Government for €29.2 million, this 1907 sunken walled Dutch-style garden is open to the public, allowing you to journey back to the age of Victoria and Edward. Strolling through the garden, you’ll see a traditional fountain lawn, an apple orchard, a small rose and lavender garden and more. There are also a few glasshouses, a potting shed, and an Arts and Crafts-style gardener’s house and pump house. When you’re through in the garden, you won’t have to go far for a meal, thanks to the Boathouse Café before heading on to tour the rest of the 78 acre grounds and the 19th century mansion in its centre. Returning to the urban surroundings of Dublin, there are plenty of hotels where you can spend the night.