Rare and exotic plant species, dazzling displays of color and an air filled with sweet scents are among the many reasons to visit the Villa Taranto Botanical Garden. This haven of horticulture is filled with more than 20,000 plant varieties, rich natural treasures from all over the world. Follow paths that lead to terraced gardens, blooming flowerbeds, a herbarium and ornamental fountains.
Enjoy the colorful spectacle of the Dahlia Garden which is filled with more than 300 varieties of flowering plants. Step into the vertical garden to see a glasshouse filled with water lilies and other tropical plants. Among them is Victoria cruziana, a giant water lily from South America. Stop by the Fontana dei Putti, a beautiful fountain adorned with sculptures.
Visit the herbarium for the exhibition of plants and flowers from different regions of the United Kingdom. These were collected in 1929 by Henry Cocker, the villa's first head gardener. Amble through terraced gardens that feature manicured lawns, small waterfalls and brightly colored flowerbeds.
See rare botanical species such as Dicksonia antarctica, an evergreen tree fern from the forests of Australia. The Acer palmatum Captain McEacharn is a red-colored maple dedicated to Scotsman Neil McEacharn who established the gardens in the 1930s. Get around to other highlights of the garden including a pond full of lotus flowers and the founder's mausoleum and chapel.
Any time is a good time to visit the gardens but the second and third week of April brings the annual Tulip Weeks event. Relish the sight of 80,000 flowering tulips including the giant orange sunset, the largest tulip in the world.
Find the Villa Taranto Botanical Garden in Pallanza on the western shore of Lake Maggiore. The nearest train station is in Verbania and from there you can catch a bus to the town. Alternatively, drive and use the free on-site car parking. The garden is open every day from March through November. There is an admission fee which is discounted for children from 6 to 14 years old. Children aged 5 and under get in for free.
