Hidden, enchanted, magical realms. Oases of magnificence that attract us into a spell of delight and mystery. This is the timeless charm of secret gardens. This happens in the parks of rare beauty that are part of Great Italian Gardens network. They are often private estates where public access is allowed only once-twice a year, with the aim to keep their harmony unblemished.
Let’s visit together some of these botanical treasures, chosen destinations between fairy tale and reality.
4 Italian secret gardens that should not be missed
Are you ready to lose yourself in these green gems of unspoiled nature? Here are the 4 secret gardens that I suggest you to visit.
Vittoriale degli Italiani. This charming park with spectacular corners and views lies on a magnificent hill overlooking Garda lake in Gardone Riviera, abode of poet Gabriele D’Annunzio. Nine hectares of discovery paths where nature and art blend in movie-like settings among streets, piazzas, gardens, historic relics, streams and even an open-air theatre.
Villa Grock. A new entry in the network of Great Italian Gardens, Villa Grock is a small jewel nestled on the hills of Imperia, the result of creativity of famous clown Adrien Wettach, known as “Grock”, that was its owner from 1930 to 1960. A place that brings one back to childhood, a circus made of stones, rich in colours, with a wonderland-like architecture.
Villa della Pergola. Timeless charm and romanticism in this luxuriant pleasure garden, overlooking the Western Ligurian Riviera, in Alassio. Here you can admire all shades of Wisteria, from pink to purple, from white to blue. Here Mediterranean flora acquires subtropical shades of colour along panoramic terraces connected by arbors of stunning beauty.
Seghetti Panichi Historical Park. In Castel di Lama, close to Ascoli Piceno, we find the first historical-monumental park in Italy to enshrine a bioenergy garden, beneficial for body and soul. Paths intertwine in relax areas designed taking into account the therapeutic effects of plants on organs and biological functions. A haven of rest and silence created by the well-known botanist and garden designer Ludwig Winter.
The most beautiful secret gardens of Italy, yet open to visits, are waiting for you to offer a travel of aesthetic and spiritual contemplation in the green of nature.
Marco Sandrini, Chief Landscape Designer di Sandrini Green Architecture