Singapore Garden Festival 2020

Singapore Garden Festival 2020
with Helen Young

17–23 July 2020 (7 days)

 

HIGHLIGHTS …

 

Discover the luxuriant glory of the gardens of Singapore, from historic botanic gardens to 21st century urban designs, as well as the Singapore Garden Festival, the most significant garden show in the tropics.

Singapore has reinvented itself in the last decade as a ‘City in a Garden’, embracing 21st century landscaping concepts and technology. Join garden writer Helen Young to explore some of the highlights of this exciting city, with its vibrant food culture, lush sky-gardens and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Botanic Gardens with its incomparable orchid collection.

Spend two days at Gardens by the Bay, which hosts the Singapore Garden Festival, and delight in the finest that tropical and sub-tropical gardening has to offer.

Note: At time of publication (September 2019), most but not all visits were confirmed. Therefore, while we undertake to operate the tour as published, there may be some changes to the itinerary.

 

AT A GLANCE:

 

• Enjoy a day at Gardens by the Bay, and a day at the acclaimed Singapore Garden Festival, the only garden show in the tropics, showcasing creations from the world’s top award-winning garden and floral designers
• Wander through the 82-hectare Singapore Botanic Gardens and the National Orchid Garden, which boasts a collection of cultivars named after visiting world leaders
• Traverse the green belts linking the city’s national parks, oases of calm where Singaporeans come to walk with nature
• Stay in Orchid Club rooms at the deluxe 5-star Park Royal Hotel, the ‘Hotel in a Garden’, whose balconies and walkways are given over to verdant gardens planted with palms and other tropical species

 

ITINERARY:

 

Friday 17 July 2020 / Arrive Singapore

Depart Australia or New Zealand on suggested Qantas/Air New Zealand flights to Singapore. Renaissance Tours or your travel agent can assist you with your flights and other travel arrangements.
Arrive in the afternoon and make your way to the hotel.
In the evening, join Helen and fellow travellers for a welcome briefing followed by a special welcome dinner. (D)

 

Sat 18 Jul / Singapore

In the morning, enjoy a talk by Helen before an introductory coach tour of Singapore, the ‘city in a garden’. Stop at the Ocean Financial Centre to view the stunning vertical green wall and enjoy a short tour of the Marina One building, an integrated development of apartments and retail nestled in greenery.
Enjoy a visit to a wet market to get an up-close look at the fresh produce of Singapore. Then enjoy a guided tour of Chinatown, before lunch at the Oasia Hotel. Designed by renowned Singaporean architect, Patricia Urquiola, the Oasia Hotel is a 27-storey tropical skyscraper that provides welcome greenery and respite to the residents of the area.
After lunch enjoy a visit to one of Singapore’s community gardens. In addition to sowing edible crops, community gardens provide Singaporeans with a platform to bond with their wider community. With over 1,000 community gardens in Singapore, these have been instrumental in attracting wildlife to the city area. (BL)

 

Sun 19 Jul / Singapore

Begin this morning with a guided nature walk through Singapore’s Southern Ridges, a 10km stretch of open green spaces in the city which is connected to a network of other parks in the area by a system of bridges and raised walkways.
At the end of the walk enjoy some time at leisure at the hotel, before transferring to the National Gallery of Singapore for lunch at the National Kitchen by Violet Oon. After lunch enjoy a guided tour of the gallery’s highlights, including the exhibits which feature the world’s largest public collection of Singaporean and Southeast Asian art. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon and enjoy the remainder of the day and evening at leisure. (BL)

 

Mon 20 Jul / Singapore

Today visit the Singapore Garden Festival, located at Gardens by the Bay. The festival, now in its eighth iteration, is the world’s premier tropical garden show, exhibiting more than 400,000 plant specimens. Featuring landscape gardens, fantasy gardens, balcony gardens and more, the festival displays the best of Singaporean and international garden design. No floral exhibition in Singapore would be complete without a riotous display of the island’s most beloved blossom and Singapore’s national flower, the orchid. Enjoy free time for lunch at the festival.
Return to the hotel in the afternoon for some free time, and in the evening, enjoy a leisurely cruise on the Singapore River followed by dinner at a local restaurant. (BD)

 

Tue 21 Jul / Singapore

After breakfast, continue your exploration of Singaporean flora with a visit to the city’s historic Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed tropical garden founded in 1859. Its extensive National Orchid Garden contains over 1,000 species, including cultivars dedicated to visiting dignitaries like Queen Elizabeth II, Emperor Akihito of Japan and Diana, Princess of Wales.
After lunch, enjoy a guided tour of the Spice Garden at Fort Canning Park. The garden was once the site of Singapore’s first Botanical and Experimental Garden started by Sir Stamford Raffles in 1822.
Return to the hotel in the mid-afternoon enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. (BL)

 

Wed 22 Jul / Singapore

This morning return to Gardens by the Bay for an exploration of this unique site. Built on 101 hectares of reclaimed land and opened in 2012, Gardens by the Bay is testimony to the garden revolution which Singapore has experienced in recent decades. The centrepieces are two huge, cooled conservatories, each around a hectare in size: the Flower Dome bursting with specimens from the Mediterranean, South Africa, Australia and South America, and the Cloud Forest replicating the cool, moist conditions of the mountain forests of Southeast Asia and South America. Outside, an elevated walkway runs through the grove of ‘Supertrees’, a series of 16-storey vertical gardens growing ferns, vines and bromeliads.
Return to the hotel in the mid-afternoon for some time at leisure before dinner at the Marina Bay Sands complex. After dinner return to Gardens by the Bay to enjoy the daily sound and light show spectacular, before returning to the hotel. (BD)

 

Thu 23 Jul / Depart Singapore

Enjoy a morning at leisure in Singapore, before a special farewell lunch at the famous Raffles Hotel. Opened in 1887 and newly refurbished in 2019, the hotel is one of the icons of Singapore. Perhaps enjoy Singapore’s signature cocktail, the Singapore Sling.
Then depart for the airport to visit the astounding Jewel at Changi Airport. After some time to check in for suggested evening flights, enjoy time to explore the Jewel including the hedge maze, Canopy Bridge, Shiseido Forest Valley, Canopy Park and Topiary Walk, as well as the Rain Vortex, the world’s largest indoor waterfall.

Tour arrangements conclude at Changi Airport after the visit to the Jewel, in time for flights departing from 7:30pm. Renaissance Tours or your travel agent can assist you with your travel arrangements, including flights and any extra nights’ accommodation, either before or after the tour. (BL)

Homesteads and Gardens of the National Capital

Homesteads and Gardens of the National Capital
Canberra, Braidwood, Bungendore and Yass with Trisha Dixon

 

24–28 April 2020 (5 days)

 

HIGHLIGHTS …

Discover the historic homesteads, estates and private gardens of the ACT and NSW and experience the poignancy of Anzac Day in the nation’s capital.
With Canberra as your base, and in the company of landscape photographer and writer Trisha Dixon, travel to the nearby stations and properties that have been home to those who have shaped Australia’s cultural history.
Further afield in Braidwood, Bungendore and Yass, see the country homesteads and properties depicted by famous artists whose works hang at the National Gallery of Australia, where we will enjoy a private viewing.

 

AT A GLANCE:

• Explore the historic homes and gardens of the ACT and NSW, including Micalago Station, Palerang and Lambrigg, all telling their unique stories
• Gain privileged access to private gardens in Canberra, and Braidwood, Bungendore and Yass in country NSW
• At the National Gallery of Australia in Canberra, enjoy a private viewing of the collection of paintings inspired by the unique Australian landscapes of the surrounding area
• Commemorate Anzac Day with the Dawn Service at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra

 

ITINERARY

Friday 24 April 2020 / Arrive Canberra

Arrive in Canberra and make your way to the hotel. Renaissance Tours or your travel agent can assist you with your flights and other travel arrangements.

Join your tour leader, Trisha Dixon, and fellow travellers at 14:30 for a welcome briefing at the hotel before visiting the National Gallery of Australia. Enjoy a private curator-led viewing of George Lambert’s painting, The Squatter’s Daughter, the landscape to be viewed at Micalago Station on the next day of the tour. In the early evening, and enjoy a special welcome dinner. (D)

 

Sat 25 Apr / Canberra (Micalago)

Awake before first light to experience the Anzac Day Dawn Service at the Australian War Memorial. Honour the Anzac legacy in the heart of the nation as notes of the bugle ring out over Lake Burley Griffin.

After breakfast, travel south to Micalago Station, a historical pioneer homestead and the location of multiple film sets including My Brilliant Career in 1979, for a guided tour around the garden and a visit to the site where George Lambert painted his iconic The Squatter’s Daughter. Enjoy genuine country hospitality when you take lunch on the property with the rugged Snowy Mountains as your backdrop and the garden awash with golden autumn hues. Return to Canberra in the late afternoon and enjoy the evening at leisure. (BL)

 

Sun 26 Apr / Canberra (Gundaroo and Yass)

This morning visit the country town of Gundaroo. Visit a private garden owned by an assortment of notable Australians that delicately balances history while reflecting the region’s harsh physical environment.

Visit an iconic food and wine destination on the outskirts of Collector and enjoy lunch on a private property in a converted historic woolshed.

Continue to Yass and visit master landscaper Fleur Flanery’s contemporary private garden. Current convenor of the Australian Landscape Conference, Fleur has created a garden in stark contrast to the properties visited on the tour. Encircled by the Yass River on three sides, this beautiful garden is at the cutting edge of Australian landscape design. Return to Canberra in the afternoon and enjoy the evening at leisure. (BL)

 

Mon 27 Apr / Canberra (Bungendore and Braidwood)

After breakfast drive to Bungendore and visit the Bungendore Woodworks Gallery before exploring the historic village and antique stores. Nestled in a green valley in the Southern Tablelands, this colonial township tells unique national stories of the gold rush and the bushrangers who followed when gold was struck.

Continue to Palerang where the original 1840s coach inn was transformed into a homestead estate where poet David Campbell and a collection of colourful characters have rested their heads throughout the property’s intriguing history. Enjoy lunch on this private property.

Then, visit charming Braidwood, a National Trust-listed town, and visit Mona Farm, where English heritage intertwines with the rich Australian landscape. Return to Canberra in the late afternoon and enjoy a light dinner at leisure at the hotel. (BLD)

 

Tue 28 Apr / Canberra (Lambrigg)

This morning, visit Lambrigg, the former home of William Farrer, the internationally renowned agronomist who transformed Australia’s wheat industry in the early 1900s. The property’s ingeniously designed stately garden overlooks the winding Murrumbidgee River and the sweeping 730 hectare property that remains a working sheep and cattle farm.

Enjoy a farewell lunch with Trisha and fellow travellers. Suggested departure from Canberra on flights departing from 4pm. (BL)

Palaces, Estates and Dachas of Imperial Russia with Genevieve Jacobs

Palaces, Estates and Dachas of Imperial Russia
with Genevieve Jacobs

 

19 June – 2 July 2020 (14 days)

 

HIGHLIGHTS …

Revel in the mid-year summer bloom at Imperial Russia’s most magnificent palaces, estates and gardens in a journey through Moscow and St Petersburg’s most celebrated and lesser known cultural treasures.

Explore the sumptuous gardens of the palaces of Peterhof, Gatchina and of Catherine the Great, as well as both the famous and lesser-known botanical gardens and public parks of St Petersburg and Moscow.

Discover the region of Vladimir, located in Russia’s “Golden Ring,” and spend a day visiting captivating private gardens, as well as a traditional Russian dacha, or summer house.

Enjoy visits to historical sites, cathedrals and museums, including the opportunity for an evening visit to the Hermitage, one of the most renowned museums in the world.

 

AT A GLANCE:

• Marvel at the palace gardens of Catherine I and Peter the Great outside St Petersburg
• Explore private country gardens in the vicinity of the “golden ring” city of Vladimir
• Visit traditional Russian dachas (summer houses) for a close-up look at life outside the major cities
• Enjoy visits to the great museums of Moscow and St Petersburg, including an evening visit to the Hermitage without the crowds
• Enrich your experience with engaging talks by your tour leader, Genevieve Jacobs

 

ITINERARY

Thursday 18 June 2020 / Depart Australia/New Zealand

Depart Australia or New Zealand on suggested Qatar Airways flights to St Petersburg via Doha. Renaissance Tours or your travel agent can assist you with your flights and other travel arrangements.

 

Fri 19 Jun / Arrive St Petersburg

Arrive in the mid-afternoon in St Petersburg on suggested flights and transfer to your hotel. (transfer included in the tour price).

This evening, join Genevieve and fellow travellers for a welcome briefing and dinner. (D)

 

Sat 20 Jun / St Petersburg

Enjoy a morning orientation tour of this magnificent city, first planned by Peter the Great and later embellished by his imperial successors to become one of the truly great European capitals. See the mounted statue of Peter the Great, which stands outside St Isaac’s Cathedral and admire Catherine I’s Winter Palace, which now houses the Hermitage collection from the banks of the Neva River.

After lunch, transfer to the Imperial Gardens Festival. An annual celebration of landscape art in St Petersburg, the main event is the exhibition of landscape compositions garden installations and objects d’art. This evening dinner will be in a local restaurant. (BLD)

 

Sun 21 Jun / St Petersburg

In the morning, enjoy a talk by Genevieve before a visit to the Church of the Saviour on Spilled Blood. Built in 1907 on the site of the assassination of Tsar Alexander II, the church was closed during the communist period and used as a store house for vegetables. Re-opened as a museum in 1997 after 27 years of restoration, the church is now the most iconic site in St Petersburg. The interior is astoundingly beautiful, awash with intricate and colourful mosaics.

Then, discover “The Venice of the North” on a tour of the many canals of St Petersburg. Relax on an open-air canal boat as it leisurely passes by the many palaces, theatres and gardens of the city.

In the afternoon, journey outside the city to visit the private garden and nursery of Marina Shimanskaya, a renowned Russian landscape designer. (BL)

 

Mon 22 Jun / St Petersburg

This morning, enjoy a visit of the Komarov Botanical Gardens. Situated on the island of Aptekarsky in the delta of the Neva River, the Botanical Gardens are the oldest of their kind in Russia. Originally the herb garden of Peter the Great and founded to grow medicinal plants, the garden is now home to a park, arboretum and twenty-five greenhouses.

Then, travel to a traditional dacha (Russian for summer house) for a private visit to observe life outside the city and to enjoy lunch.

Return to St Petersburg in the late afternoon. The evening is at leisure. (BL)

 

Tue 23 Jun / St Petersburg (Pushkin)

Drive out of St Petersburg to the town of Pushkin, formerly known as ‘Tsar’s Village’ (Tsarskoye Selo), renowned for its remarkable ensemble of palaces and parks. It is particularly famous for its impressive Catherine Palace, the Baroque-style palace where Empress Catherine the Great lived and died.

After lunch, visit Gatchina Palace. The palace was built from 1766 to 1781, and contains elements of classical architecture and themes prevalent in medieval castles. The palace was built for Count Grigori Grigoryevich Orlov, who was a favourite of Catherine the Great, and it was a favourite place for the Imperial family to relax. (BL)

 

Wed 24 Jun / St Petersburg

This morning enjoy a visit of St Isaacs Cathedral. Dominating the skyline of St Petersburg, the church was dedicated to St Isaac of Dalmatia, the patron saint of Peter the Great. The cathedral was turned into a museum in 1931 by the Soviets, and has remained a museum since. The interior architecture uses pink granite and malachite, cut from the Ural Mountains which form the border between Europe and Asia across Russia.

Then, visit the captivating Fabergé Museum. Housing not only one of the finest collections of Fabergé eggs in Russia, the museum also houses other works produced by the jewellers of Peter Carl Fabergé.

Enjoy the afternoon at leisure before a private guided tour of the main branch of the State Hermitage Museum in the evening. The museum is housed in the Winter Palace, the former principal residence of the Romanov Tsars. At the conclusion of the tour there will be free time to remain in the museum to witness Catherine the Great’s elaborate Peacock Clock, which, fortunately for us, chimes only on Wednesday evenings. (BD)

 

Thu 25 Jun / St Petersburg (Peterhof)

Travel outside the city to the magnificent palace and gardens of Peter the Great at Peterhof. Built directly in response to the construction of Versailles by Louis XIV, the palace contains many outbuildings and subsequent smaller palaces as well as sprawling gardens of many different styles.

In the afternoon, board the hydrofoil to return to St Petersburg by sea for afternoon tea at the Eliseyev Emporium, a famous entertainment complex and food hall. Built in 1902-1903, it is one of the most striking examples of Russian Art Nouveau architecture. Enjoy a specialty coffee or sample a macaroon from one of the store’s many colourful displays. (BA)

 

Fri 26 Jun / St Petersburg – Moscow

Check out of the hotel and transfer to the train station for the high-speed ‘Sapsan’ train to Moscow (travel time approx. 4 hours). On arrival in Moscow, transfer to the hotel.

This evening enjoy a guided walking tour of Red Square followed by dinner at a local restaurant. (BD)

 

Sat 27 Jun / Moscow

This morning visit the Kremlin with its many treasures, including the sumptuous interior of the Cathedral of the Assumption and the more intimate Cathedral of the Annunciation. Wander through the colourful Taynitsky Garden, the site of which was once home to the Church of St Constantine and Helen, which was destroyed by the Bolsheviks.

Then, visit the Armoury Chamber with its collection of Fabergé eggs and an astonishing array of glittering jewels, robes, thrones and carriages – a telling reminder of the pre-revolutionary opulence of the Romanov Dynasty.

In the afternoon, visit the Alexander Garden. Stretching the length of the west Kremlin wall, the garden is one of the oldest public spaces in Moscow. Consisting of an upper, middle and lower garden, the upper garden contains the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and Eternal Flame. (BD)

 

Sun 28 Jun / Moscow

Following a talk by Genevieve, enjoy a morning tour of Moscow, visit the Novodevichy Cemetery, where many famous Russian political and cultural figures are buried (including Russia’s first president, Boris Yeltsin), and enjoy a panoramic view of Moscow from Sparrow Hills.

After lunch, visit the Moscow Apothecary Botanical Gardens, which now form a part of the botanical garden of Moscow State University. When the garden was established in 1706, the plants grown here were used not only for the preparation of medicines, but also for teaching botany and medical students.

Later, visit the formal and landscape parks of Kuskovo Estate, the former summer country house and estate of the Sheremetev family. One of the few estates of Russian nobility still preserved, the park is a favourite recreational place of Muscovites. (BL)

 

Mon 29 Jun / Moscow (Vladimir)

Enjoy a day in the Russian countryside in the region of Vladimir, near the so-called Golden Ring.

First, visit the private garden of Igor Uspensky, a noted Russian gardener and author of several books on coniferous plants and ornamental gardens. Dubbed “The Fantasy Forest”, the garden is closed to the public and features rare plants in an ornamental placement.

After viewing the garden, enjoy lunch at Igor Uspensky’s dacha.

In the afternoon, visit the “Garden of a Fairytale”, the private garden of Larissa Ivanova. The garden features hydrangeas and conifers as well as rhododendrons, azaleas and magnolias. Enjoy some home-made Russian pastries in the garden before returning to Moscow. (BL)

 

Tue 30 Jun / Moscow

This morning journey to the southeast of Moscow to visit the former royal estate of Kolomensky. Inhabited since 1339, Kolomensky became a favourite country estate of the princes of Moscovy. The White Ascension Church, built in 1532, was built to honour the birth of a long-awaited heir to the throne, who later became Ivan the Terrible.

Tsar Alexis I had all the previous wooden structures in Kolomenskoy demolished and replaced with a new wooden palace, famed for its fanciful, fairytale roofs. Foreigners once referred to this huge maze of intricate corridors and 250 rooms as ‘an Eighth Wonder of the World’.

Return to Moscow to spend the afternoon in Gorky Park. Opened in 1928, the park complex is a favourite entertainment venue for Muscovites. June will see the park’s gardens in full bloom and a range of seasonal venues and restaurants in full swing, serving everything from Russian pancakes to cocktails.

This evening, enjoy an optional performance at one of Moscow’s world renowned theatres. (Performance details to be announced in early 2020, Optional, extra cost applies) (B)

 

Wed 1 Jul / Moscow

In the morning, visit the Botanical Gardens of Moscow State University, followed by the Neskuchny Garden. The oldest park in Moscow, it was once the former residence of the Emperor and was created as a result of the integration of three estates in the eighteenth century. It is also home to the “Green Theatre”, the largest amphitheatre in Europe, which can house 15,000 people.

Then, enjoy time at leisure on colourful Arbat Street, before rounding out the tour at the Muzeon Park of Arts for the Moscow Flower Show. See exhibition gardens created by professional landscape designers from Russia and around the world.

This evening enjoy a special farewell dinner with Genevieve and fellow travellers. (BD)

 

Thu 2 Jul / Depart Moscow

Tour arrangements conclude with a transfer to Moscow Domodedovo or Moscow Sheremetyevo airports. Renaissance Tours can assist you with your flights and other travel arrangements, including any extra nights’ accommodation, either before or after the tour. (B)

NOTE:
At time of publication (July 2019), most but not all garden visits were confirmed. Private owners, in particular, are reluctant to commit more than two to three months prior to the visit. Therefore, while we undertake to operate the tour as published, there may be some changes to the itinerary.

Autumn Colours of Japan with Helen Young and John McBride

Classical and contemporary gardens of Northern Japan

05–20 October 2020 (16 days)

 

HIGHLIGHTS …

Delight in autumn’s colourful panorama of traditional Japanese gardens and contemporary designs with horticulturist Helen Young and Japanophile John McBride through a unique tour of Hokkaido and northern Honshu.

Savour the flavours of Sapporo’s famous ramen whilst marvelling at the orderly design of the city’s trees and parks from ideal vantage points high above the city. Explore the cutting-edge design at Isamu Nogochi’s Moerenuma Park and the Sculpture Garden of the Sapporo Art Park.

Then, explore the Tokachi region following the so-called ‘Hokkaido Garden Path’ and relax in the hot springs in Daisetsuzan National Park.

Explore Furano’s Kaze no Garden as well as the lush garden landscapes that surround Kamakura’s temples before visiting Tokyo’s most prized gardens, including the poetic Rikugi-en Garden.

 

AT A GLANCE:

• Visit Isamu Noguchi’s Moerenuma Park in Sapporo and Dan Pearson’s Tokachi Millennium Forest
• Admire private gardens, sculpture gardens and botanical gardens along the ‘Hokkaido Garden Path’
• Explore the Tokachi rural region and relax at a hot-spring resort in the Daisetsuzan National Park with spectacular autumn colours, surrounded by mountains, waterfalls and gorges
• Wonder at the magnificent Kaze no Garden in Furano and visit Kamakura’s beautiful Zen temples and gardens
• See Tokyo’s most prized garden-scapes, including the renowned Rikugi-en Garden
• Delight in exquisite gastronomy and experience Japan’s unique and refined cuisine

 

ITINERARY

Monday 05 October 2020 / Depart Australia / New Zealand – Sapporo

Depart Australia or New Zealand in the morning on suggested Japan Airlines flights to Tokyo Narita Airport. Renaissance Tours or your travel agent can assist you with your flights and other travel arrangements.

Arrive at Tokyo Narita Airport in the late afternoon and transfer to the domestic terminal for suggested evening flight to Sapporo. Arrive in Sapporo in the late evening and transfer to your hotel (transfer included in tour price).

Sapporo is the capital of Hokkaido and Japan’s fifth largest city. Sapporo is famous for its ramen (noodles), beer and the annual snow festival held in February. Designed by European and American architects in the late 19th century, Sapporo is shaped by its wide grid of tree-lined streets and ample public parks. The city became world famous in 1972 when the Olympic Winter Games were held here. (B)

 

Tue 06 Oct / Sapporo

This morning, join Helen, John and fellow travellers for a welcome briefing. Then, begin the day’s sightseeing with a visit to Odori Park, filled with sculptures, fountains, lilac, acacia plants and flowerbeds. See the Sapporo Clock Tower and the former Hokkaido government office building (1881), known as ‘Red Brick’.

Following a welcome lunch, enjoy your first taste of Hokkaido’s famous autumn colours during an afternoon walk in the Hokkaido University Botanical Gardens. Established in 1886, the Botanical Gardens preserve a small part of the forest which formerly covered the Ishikari Plain. In addition, there is an alpine garden, a greenhouse and a small Ainu museum. This evening, enjoy a night view of Sapporo from the JR Tower Observation Deck. (BL)

 

Wed 07 Oct / Sapporo

In the morning, visit Moerenuma Park, a large, contemporary park on the outskirts of Sapporo designed by American-Japanese sculptor Isamu Noguchi. On the concept of “the whole being a single sculpture” and the park as a fusion of nature and art, Moerenuma is a park for all seasons with cherry blossoms in the spring, a fountain and wading pools for the summer, colourful foliage in the autumn and cross-country skiing and sledding during winter.

Spend the afternoon exploring the Bibai Sculpture Park, a 17-acre park containing 40 sculptures by internationally renowned sculptor Kan Yasuda. The park was initially created to revitalise the city of Bibai with new arts and culture while preserving the surrounding natural environment. (BL)

 

Thu 08 Oct / Sapporo – Tokachi

Today begins with a visit to the Makomanai Takino Cemetery, a site designed by architect Tadao Ando containing a giant Buddha surrounded by a hill of lavenders and facing a reflection pool. The site includes replicas of Easter Island statues, Assyrian winged bulls and Stonehenge.

Then, visit the Sculpture Garden of the Sapporo Art Park, set on a beautiful green hillside with a sprawling collection of 75 contemporary artworks by Japanese and international artists.

After lunch, depart Sapporo for an afternoon’s drive across the south of Hokkaido to the largely rural region of Tokachi. Here you join the ‘Hokkaido Garden Path’, a 200km garden tour route stretching from Tokachi through Furano to Asahikawa in the centre of the island.

Arrive at the hotel in Obihiro in the late afternoon, our base for the next three nights. (BLD)

 

Fri 09 Oct / Tokachi

Today enjoy three very different garden experiences.

Begin with a visit to Rokka-no Mori, which displays the flower varieties of Tokachi which blossom through the seasons. Throughout the garden are scattered old, rustic houses brought from Croatia that serve as art museums.

Later, enjoy lunch followed by a visit to the Tokachi Hills garden, surrounded by three different types of garden: a colourful border garden, an English-style garden and the natural native untouched wildflowers of Tokachi.

Finish with a visit to Manabe Garden, famous as the first conifer garden in Japan but also featuring many species of colourful deciduous trees.  (BLD)

 

Sat 10 Oct / Tokachi

Spend the morning exploring the Tokachi Millennium Forest. Designed by Dan Pearson, the internationally-renowned British garden designer, the Tokachi Millennium Forest was created under the theme of a Hokkaido garden that is harmonised with nature. The garden involves four concepts: the Earth Garden that features undulating grassland and magnificent views; the Forest Garden, where one can feel the life of flowers and plants; the Meadow Garden with its curving boardwalk through informal drifts of colourful Tokachi flowers, and the Farm Garden with its theme of agriculture coexisting with nature.

In the afternoon, visit the Obihiro Museum of Art, a gallery focused on the works of artists from the Obihiro region.

Then, enjoy a talk by Helen followed by dinner at the hotel. (BD)

 

Sun 11 Oct / Tokachi – Sounkyo

Depart the Tokachi region for the Daisetsuzan National Park located in the mountainous centre of the island.

On the way, stop for lunch and a visit to Daisetsu Mori-no Garden. Overlooking the Daisetsu mountain range, Daisetsu Mori-no Garden is a ‘forest garden’ with flowers, where more than 700 kinds of flowers bloom throughout the year.

Arrive in the late afternoon at Sounkyo Hot Springs, a resort town in Daisetsuzan National Park, surrounded by towering mountains, waterfalls and gorges. A ski resort through the winter, Sounkyo is famous for its vivid autumn colours. (BL)

 

Mon 12 Oct / Sounkyo

This morning take the ropeway and chairlift up Mount Kurodake, one of the earliest spots in Japan to see autumn colours, which typically appear at the beginning of September around the mountain peak. In the upper elevations the colours are usually best in the second half of September and then slowly make their way down to the valley floor by around mid-October.

The ropeway takes you up to the 5th Station of Mt Kurodake at an altitude of 1,300m. After a short walk, continue by chairlift to the 7th Station at an altitude of 1,520m from where there are splendid views of the summit (1,964m).

The afternoon is at leisure to enjoy the hot springs or many walks from the resort. (BD)

 

Tue 13 Oct / Sounkyo – Furano

Depart Sounkyo Hot Springs for a leisurely day’s drive to Furano.

En route, visit Ueno Farm, modelled on an English country-style garden, featuring hardy perennials that have been rearranged to suit the Hokkaido climate. Ueno Farm is the creation of renowned Japanese garden designer Sayuki Ueno.

After lunch at a local restaurant, drive to Furano in the afternoon. (BL)

 

Wed 14 Oct / Furano – Kamakura

This morning, explore Kaze no Garden (“Windy Garden”), an English-style garden, made possible in Japan by the unique climate of Hokkaido.

Then, transfer to Sapporo Airport for an afternoon flight to Tokyo (flight included in tour price). Continue to nearby Kamakura, our base for the next two nights. (BLD)

 

Thu 15 Oct / Kamakura

Kamakura flourished in the 13th century as Zen Buddhism was introduced to Japan, and the city today is home to an abundance of Zen gardens and Buddhist temples.

Begin the morning with a visit to Hokoku-ji and Jomyo-ji Temple, both sites lying in the hills of eastern Kamakura and surrounded by lush gardens. Then, enjoy a walk to Tsurugaoka through Sugimoto Temple and the beautiful gardens of the suburbs of Kamakura.

After lunch, continue the exploration of Kamakura’s Zen history with visits of Kenchoji and Engaku-ji Temples, ranked first and second among the five great Zen temples of Kamakura. For the energetic, take part in an optional mountain hike to the Great Buddha at Kotoku-in Temple. (BLD)

 

Fri 16 Oct / Kamakura – Tokyo

This morning, discover Kotoku-in and the Great Buddha, a thirteen-metre-high bronze sculpture of Amida Buddha dating to the 1250s AD. The Buddha originally had a wooden iteration in its place, which took 10 years to build but lasted only five years before being damaged by a storm and needing replacing.

Continue to Hase Temple, a Buddhist temple famous for its nine-metre-high statue of Kannon, an early 8th century carving of a Buddhist figure associated with compassion. The grounds of the temple are also home to over 50,000 Jizo statues.

Depart Kamakura in the afternoon for Tokyo, and spend the evening at leisure. (BL)

 

Sat 17 Oct / Tokyo

This morning, explore Rikugi-en Garden, often considered Tokyo’s most beautiful Japanese landscape garden. Built around 1700 for the 5th Tokugawa Shogun, Rikugien means literally “six poems garden” and reproduces in miniature 88 scenes from famous poems.

This afternoon, wander the Asakura Sculpture Museum, once the home and studio of sculptor Fumio Asakura, and now featuring many of his bronzes, his library and other collectibles, including painting, pottery and gardens. (BLD)

 

Sun 18 Oct / Tokyo

Today, visit the Nezu Museum, formerly known as the Nezu Institute of Fine Arts. It is home to the private collection of Nezu Kaichiro, a selection of pre-modern Japanese and East Asian art.

After lunch, explore Shinjuku Gyo-en, originally a residence of the Naito family in Japan’s Edo period, and now a national park. It features 58 hectares of gardens, ranging from English and French to traditional Japanese garden styles. (BL)

 

Mon 19 Oct / Tokyo

This morning, explore the area around Tokyo Olympic Stadium and see how the city transformed for the 2020 Summer Olympics with a new National Stadium designed by architect Kengo Kuma.

After lunch, enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at leisure to further explore Tokyo at your own pace.

This evening, celebrate the conclusion of the tour with a special farewell dinner. (BLD)

 

Tue 20 Oct / Depart Tokyo

After checking out of the hotel in the morning, travel to Kiyosumi-tei, a tranquil park in the heart of Japan’s bustling metropolis and concrete jungle. Designed around a large pond which serves as home to ducks and turtles, the garden is a lovely place to stroll.

After lunch, transfer to Tokyo Narita airport (transfer included in tour price) for suggested evening Japan Airlines flights to Australia. Renaissance Tours or your travel agent can assist you with your flights and other travel arrangements, including any extra nights’ accommodation, either before or after the tour. (BL)

Note: At time of publication (July 2019), most but not all garden visits were confirmed. Private owners, in particular, are reluctant to commit more than two to three months prior to the visit. Therefore, while we undertake to operate the tour as published, there may be some changes to the itinerary.

Paradise Gardens of Persia with Genevieve Jacobs

Paradise Gardens of Persia
HORTICULTURAL HERITAGE OF IRAN
with Genevieve Jacobs

 

07–23 April 2019 (17 days)

 

HIGHLIGHTS…

Discover the Persian horticultural heritage of Iran’s delicate and beautiful gardens, whose historic importance has earnt them a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Divided always into four sections and featuring water as a central element, the Persian garden is a representation of paradise on earth, tracing its symbolism back through Islam to ancient Zoroastrian culture. The gardens are all the more impressive considering the feats of hydrological engineering which have raised such verdant sanctuaries from the dry earth of Iran.

From Tehran in the north to Isfahan and Yazd in the centre and Shiraz in the south, explore extraordinary palace and city gardens, and discover how the heritage of ancient Persia flourishes in modern Iran.

 

AT A GLANCE…

• Begin and end in Tehran, the dynamic political, economic and cultural capital of the country, and visit the gardens of Golestan Palace and Sa’ad Abad Palace
• Be enchanted by the poetic Shiraz, ‘the City of Nightingales and Roses’
• Discover the stunning gardens, bazaars and mosques of Isfahan, whose expansive central square inspired the proverb ‘Isfahān nesf-e Jahān’ – ‘Isfahan is half the world’
• Explore the mud-brick city of Yazd, where the Zoroastrians still tend their sacred fires, and 18th century ‘wind towers’ cool the gardens of the city
• Visit the extraordinary ancient sites of Persepolis and Pasargadae, which embody the remains of the very earliest chahar bagh (four-part Persian garden)

 

ITINERARY…

SATURDAY 06 APRIL 2019 / DEPART AUSTRALIA/NEW ZEALAND

Depart Australia or New Zealand on suggested Qatar Airways flights to Tehran via Doha. Renaissance Tours or your travel agent can assist you with your travel arrangements.

 

SUN 07 APR / ARRIVE TEHRAN

Arrive in Tehran in the mid-morning and transfer to your hotel for check-in. In the afternoon, enjoy lunch and a welcome briefing and then begin your explorations of Tehran with a visit to the Treasury of National Jewels, where the most priceless collection of jewels and gems anywhere in the world is housed in the vaults of the Central Bank of Iran. Continue to the ‘Fire and Water Park’, to see the award-winning ‘Nature Bridge’ connecting together two of Tehran’s public parks. In the evening, enjoy a special welcome dinner with Genevieve and fellow travellers.  (L D)

 

MON 08 APR / TEHRAN

This morning, travel to Sa’ad Abad Palace Museum in northern Tehran. Elements of the Persian Garden can be seen here in the significance of the layout of the garden in relation to the palace windows.

Return to the city for lunch and a visit to the Golestan Palace and Museum Complex, former residence of the Qajar Dynasty shahs in the 19th and early 20th century. Visit the Marble Throne Hall and walk through the palace’s rambling gardens, featuring marble fountains, mosaics, stained-glass work and stone latticework. Dinner is at a local Persian restaurant.  (BLD)

 

TUE 09 APR / TEHRAN

Begin the day with a visit to Iran’s National Museum, which is home to the Archaeological Museum and the Islamic Museum. These museums display some of the finest treasures of Persian history, ranging from stone tools to sculpture, pottery, painting and glasswork, covering a period of 9,000 years.

After lunch, continue to the Glass and Ceramics Museum, which exhibits pottery dating back to 4,000 BC, and the Carpet Museum, where the gallery’s collection features Persian carpets from various regions of Iran.  (BLD)

 

WED 10 APR / TEHRAN – KERMAN

Check out of the hotel for a morning flight to the city of Kerman, located in south-east Iran (flight included in tour price). Upon arrival, visit the 17th century Ganj-Ali-Khan Complex, composed of a bathhouse, bazaar and caravanserai, and later visit the 14th century Friday Mosque and the 18th century Hammam-e-Vakil bathhouse, transformed into a traditional teahouse with graceful archways and tiled walls.

After lunch, discover the Harandi Gardens, part of the former residence of Kerman’s governor and hidden behind high walls, and now open as a museum of archeology and musical instruments.  (BLD)

 

THU 11 APR / KERMAN

Embark on a full-day excursion to the surrounding sites of Kerman. First, explore the desert citadel of Rayen, thought to have foundations from the Sassanian era of 224 – 649 BC. Inhabited until 150 years ago, this preserved Mediaeval mudbrick city has survived numerous natural disasters that have destroyed similar citadels in the region. Then, stop at the shrine of renowned Iranian poet and sage Nematollah Vali, where the twin turquoise minarets, reflecting pool and courtyards have been described as the most magnificent architectural masterpiece of old Persia.

On return to Kerman, enjoy lunch and then a visit to the Shahzadeh Garden, one of the nine UNESCO World Heritage-listed Persian Gardens. Built in the late 1900s, and encircled by distant mountains, the cascading fountains and waterways provide engineered irrigation to the garden.  (BLD)

 

FRI 12 APR / KERMAN – YAZD

Check out of the hotel for a day’s drive to Yazd, through regions of pistachio fields and pomegranate orchards. En route, visit the 400-year-old Zein-o-Din caravanserai situated along the ancient Silk Road, and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Persian Garden of Bagh-e Pahlavanpour. Supplied by abundant water from underground channels, the gardens are over five hectares in size and flanked by plane trees. Here traditional Iranian architecture can be seen to be melding with modern 20th century design ideals. Arrive in Yazd in the late afternoon and check in to the hotel.  (BLD)

 

SAT 13 APR / YAZD

Spend a full day of sightseeing in Yazd, a city known for its unique Persian architecture and recognised as a World Heritage Site in 2017. Visit the 14th century Friday Mosque, which has the highest portal and minarets in Iran, and the active Zoroastrian Fire Temple, where the fire inside has been burning for the last 1500 years.

In the afternoon, stroll through the gardens of Bagh-e Dolat Abad, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed garden built around 1750. Designed in accordance with the Persian garden principle of symmetry, the garden is planted with soaring pines and cypresses, and has the highest badgir (wind-catcher) in Iran.  (BLD)

 

SUN 14 APR / YAZD – SHIRAZ

Check out of the hotel and travel to Shiraz. Stop en route in Abarkuh, a typical desert town and enjoy tea under the shade of a 4,000-year-old cypress tree.

Travel to Parsargadae, the remains of the palaces of Cyrus the Great, the founder of the First Persian Empire. The world’s oldest extant garden layout and the first of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Persian Garden, it is believed that the world’s first formal chahar bagh (fourfold garden), laid out with water rills dividing the quartets, was created here. Although little remains today of the gardens, excavations reveal the existence of basins and channels.Continue to Shiraz and arrive at the hotel in the late afternoon. (BLD)

 

MON 15 APR / SHIRAZ

Begin the day with a talk by Genevieve, then explore ‘the City of Nightingales and Roses’ with a visit to the tombs and memorial gardens of Iran’s greatest lyric poets, Hafez and Sa’adi. Then, travel to the northwest part of Shiraz for a visit to the second UNESCO World Heritage-listed Persian Garden, Bagh-e Eram, known for its cypress trees, ornate Qajar Dynasty palace and orange groves.

In the afternoon, explore the late 19th century merchant home and garden of Narenjestan, meaning ‘Place of Oranges’. The gardens, lined by date palms, are based around a central water channel and pools on either side. Later, visit the pink-tiled 19th century Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque, and finish the day in the heart of the city at the Vakil Bazaar of Shiraz, considered to be the finest in Iran.  (BLD)

 

TUE 16 APR / SHIRAZ

This morning, visit Persepolis, one of the most important historical and archaeological sites of the Ancient World. Sacked by Alexander the Great in 330BC, Persepolis was rediscovered in the 1930s after being lost under the Persian sands for centuries. See the famous bas-reliefs, depicting kings and courtiers and gift-bearing representatives of tributary nations of the Persian Empire.

At Naqsh-e-Rustam, see Ka’ba-ye Zartosht, the enigmatic cuboid building which is thought to have served as a Zoroastrian fire temple or the mausoleum of an unknown shah. Gaze up at the Egyptian-inspired Royal Tombs of the great Achaemenid shahs and the seven magnificent Sassanian Dynasty rock-reliefs, including a relief depicting the famous victory of Shapur I over the hapless Roman Emperor Valerian in the 3rd century AD. (BLD)

 

WED 17 APR / SHIRAZ

Spend the morning discovering the gardens of Shiraz. Begin at the Arg-e-Karim Khan, an 18th century citadel and garden, followed by the historical Nazar Garden. Then, wander through the Jahan Nama Garden, the oldest gardens in Shiraz. Established in the 13th century, this walled garden features the classic Persian arrangement, with four broad avenues bordered with cypresses, roses and orange trees. A rill lined with 64 fountains stretches from the central pavilion down one of the avenues while plantings of yellow, purple, red and white flowers populate geometric flower beds.

In the afternoon, visit Bagh-e Dolgosha, also known as the ‘Garden of the Heart’s Delight’. Conclude the day at the Afif-Abad Garden, which surrounds the Royal Palace of the Safavid Dynasty (1501 – 1722). Ornamental decorations in this garden show a mixture of Achaemenid, Sassanid, Zand and Qajar influences.
(BLD)

 

THU 18 APR / SHIRAZ – ISFAHAN

Check out of the hotel for a full day’s journey by road to Isfahan. En route, stop at the historical complex of Izad-Khast, a 17th century caravanserai and bridge, where the architecture style and composition of the mud fort is unique to this region. Continue to Isfahan and arrive at the hotel in the late afternoon. (BLD)

 

FRI 19 APR / ISFAHAN

Begin the day with a morning talk by Genevieve, then enjoy a full-day tour of the beautiful city of Isfahan, the 17th century capital of the Safavid Dynasty shahs. Visit the Armenian quarter, the Orthodox Cathedral of Vank and the famous bridges of Shahrestan, Khajou and Sio-se-pol, which stretch serene and golden across the languid Zayandeh River.

In the afternoon, visit one of the world’s grandest squares, which inspired the proverb ‘Isfahān nesf-e Jahān’ – ‘Isfahan is half the world’, and two of the Islamic world’s greatest mosques, the Sheikh Lotfollah and the Iman Mosque. Following this, visit the Hasht Behesht pavilion, set amongst tree-lined alleys, a reflecting pool and water rills.  (BLD)

 

SAT 20 APR / ISFAHAN

This morning, visit the magnificent Friday Mosque, and its famous Uljaytu Mihrab (Prayer Niche), an elaborate stucco work of the 14th century Il-Khanid Dynasty. While construction on the mosque first began in the 8th century, successive dynasties added to it until the 20th century, and today Isfahan’s Friday Mosque is considered to be a museum of a thousand years of Persian religious architecture in one building.

Afterwards, travel to the 17th century Chehel Sotun Palace Garden, a UNESCO World-Heritage listed Persian Garden. The pool opposite the palace reflects back the garden’s twenty-columned portico, giving rise to its name ‘The Palace of Forty Columns’. Later, delight in an exploration of Qeisarieh Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest bazaars of the Middle East, with hundreds of stores displaying the arts and crafts for which Isfahan is famous. (BLD)

 

SUN 21 APR / ISFAHAN – TEHRAN

Check out of the hotel and depart for Tehran via Kashan. In Kashan, visit a fine example of a 19th century merchant residence known as Taba-Tabai House. Then, stroll through the historical UNESCO-listed garden of Fin, built in the mid-16th century. Distinctive features of the garden include the cedar trees, extravagantly-decorated pleasure pavilions, bubbling fountains and turquoise-tiled water rills. Continue to Tehran for arrival in the early evening.  (BLD)

 

MON 22 APR / TEHRAN

Enjoy a leisurely start to the morning. In the afternoon, travel to the north of Tehran for a visit to the Niavaran Palace Complex surrounded by lush gardens and used as a summer home for various Shahs of the Qajar and Pahlavi dynasties from the late 18th to the late 20th century. Continue to the Jamshidieh Park at the base of the Kolakchal Mountain. Known as the Stone Garden, the garden’s design is centred around the park’s cascading waterfall and pond, with channels of water flowing parallel to the garden paths to the lower reaches of the park. A favourite retreat amongst Iranian locals, the park offers panoramic views of the city below. Tonight, celebrate the conclusion on the tour with a special farewell dinner with Genevieve and fellow travellers. (BD)

 

TUE 23 APR / DEPART TEHRAN

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for departure on suggested Qatar Airways flights to Australia or New Zealand via Doha. Tour arrangements conclude on arrival at the airport. Renaissance Tours or your travel agent can assist you with your flights and other travel arrangements, including any additional nights’ accommodation, either before or after the tour.  (B)

Gardens of the Adriatic

Gardens of the Adriatic Dubrovnik to Venice with Helen Young

 

28 April – 10 May 2019 (13 days)

 

HIGHLIGHTS

Travel north along the enchanting Dalmatian Coast from Dubrovnik to the island of Hvar and onwards to Venice, visiting the elegant gardens that grace the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea.
Begin in Dubrovnik, whose UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town is still ringed with Mediaeval walls, and visit the botanical garden on the verdant island of Lokrum. Explore the Arboretum of Trsteno with its pair of 500-year-old Oriental Planes and the fields of delightful spring blossoms on the island of Hvar. Continue up the spectacular Dalmatian Coast to Split, the vibrant city which grew up around the site of Roman Emperor Diocletian’s vast palace, and onwards to Opatija and the floral abundance of the Villa Angiolina.
Finish in the stunning city of Venice, the ‘Queen of the Adriatic’, with visits to some of its ‘secret gardens’ as well as its cultural and architectural gems, and cruise past Renaissance and Baroque villas along the Brenta River.

 

AT A GLANCE

• Experience the relaxed pace of Croatian life in Dubrovnik and Split, and savour the delicious seafood cuisine of the Adriatic
• Visit the botanic garden on the island of Lokrum, where the brother of the Austrian Emperor used to spend his summer holidays
• Explore the elegant Trsteno Arboretum and stroll through fields gladdened with springtime blooms on the beautiful island of Hvar
• Delight in the horticultural abundance of the 19th century Villa Angiolina in Opatija, abounding with exotic plants drawn from across the world
• Discover the secret gardens of Venice, and cruise along the Brenta River in the hinterland of the Veneto, visiting the villas of Venetian nobility

Tour includes 3-night cruise.

 

ITINERARY

 

SATURDAY 27 APRIL 2019 / DEPART AUSTRALIA/NEW ZEALAND

Depart Australia or New Zealand in the evening on suggested Emirates flights to Dubrovnik via Dubai. Renaissance Tours or your travel agent can assist you with your flights and other travel arrangements.

 

SUN 28 APR / ARRIVE DUBROVNIK

Arrive in Dubrovnik in the early afternoon and make your way to the hotel.
Check in to the hotel and enjoy an afternoon at leisure. In the early evening, attend an introductory briefing at the hotel, followed by a special welcome dinner with Helen and fellow travellers. (D)

 

MON 29 APR / DUBROVNIK

In the morning, enjoy a talk by Helen, and then set out on a walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town of Dubrovnik. Visit Large Onofrio’s Fountain and the Church of St Blaise, patron saint of the city. See Orlando’s Column and the Sponza Palace, and then continue to the Franciscan Friary and the 17th century Baroque Cathedral. Conclude at the St John Fortress, part of Dubrovnik’s extensive Mediaeval walls which stoutly defended the then-Republic of Ragusa against the Venetians, Ottomans and pirates alike. After lunch, take the ferry to nearby Lokrum Island for a visit to its delightful botanical gardens, featuring a healthy collection of 800 species of exotic plants, such as palm trees, eucalyptus and cacti, many dating from the 19th century plantings of Archduke Maximilian, brother of the Emperor of Austria. Return to Dubrovnik for an evening at leisure. (BL)

 

TUE 30 APR / DUBROVNIK

Enjoy a morning at leisure to stroll through Dubrovnik and relish the delights of spring on the Dalmatian Coast. In the afternoon, travel to the town of Trsteno and explore its extensive arboretum, the oldest in the region, which was founded by the Gozze family in the late 15th century. Count Gozze requested that Ragusan traders bring back seeds and cuttings from all the lands they visited, and from these varied samples he founded his diverse collection.(BL)

 

WED 01 MAY / DUBROVNIK – MLJET (CRUISE)

In the morning, check out of the hotel and transfer to the wharf to embark on the MS Adriatic Sun, a luxury private-charter boat which will be our home for the next three nights.
Cruise through the Elaphiti Islands, which fringe the Dalmatian Coast, to the island of Mljet, almost all of which is still covered with ancestral Adriatic forest. Visit Mljet National Park, a highlight of which is the serene Great Lake and the Monastery of St Mary on its central islet – that is, an island, in a lake, on an island, in the sea. Overnight moored in Mljet. (BLD)

 

THU 02 MAY / MLJET – KORČULA (CRUISE)

While cruising from Mljet to the island of Korčula, enjoy a talk by Helen on the flora and horticulture of the region. In the afternoon, visit St Mark’s Cathedral in Korčula, constructed by local builders in the 15th and 16th centuries. Standing proudly above the fortified town, the cathedral contains an altarpiece painted by Tintoretto. Overnight moored in Korčula. (BLD)

 

FRI 03 MAY / KORČULA – HVAR – BRAČ (CRUISE)

Cruise from Korčula to the island of Hvar. In Hvar, visit St Stephen’s Cathedral, built in the distinctive syncretic architectural style of the Dalmatian Coast and containing elements of the Renaissance, Mannerist and Baroque traditions. Then take a stroll through the fields of Hvar, where an abundance of spring wildflowers makes for one of the most delightful experiences of the Dalmatian Coast. Cruise onward to the island of Brač, and then in the evening uphold nautical tradition by celebrating the final night of our Dalmatian cruise with the Captain’s farewell dinner. Overnight moored in Brač. (BLD)

 

SAT 04 MAY / BRAČ – SPLIT (CRUISE)

In the morning, cruise from Brač to Split on the mainland and disembark. Split is Croatia’s second largest city, and traces its history to the Hellenistic Greek town established on the site and named after the indigenous spiny broom plant (Calicotome spinosa) that covered the hillside: the plant’s Greek name was Aspalathos, which became the Latin Spalatum and then Croatian Split. Split’s great treasure is the Palace of Diocletian, built in the 4th century AD as a luxurious seaside retirement home for the Eastern Roman Emperor (who was himself a native of Dalmatia). The first Roman emperor ever to voluntarily abdicate the throne, Diocletian lived out the last seven years of his life in this elegant palace-fortress, and reportedly spent his days tending his vegetable garden. He was particularly proud of his cabbages. After some free time for lunch at leisure, check in to the hotel. The remainder of the afternoon and evening are at your disposal to continue your exploration of Split at your own pace. (B)

 

SUN 05 MAY / SPLIT – OPATIJA

Check out from the hotel and drive to Plitvice Lakes National Park. After lunch at a local restaurant in the park, visit the stunning complex of lakes and waterfalls at the heart of the park. A series of dazzling blue lakes steps downwards through a verdant valley in the Dinaric Alps, with waterfalls cascading from one level to the next. Continue to Opatija, and check in to the hotel, followed by dinner. (BLD)

 

MON 06 MAY / OPATIJA

After a morning talk by Helen, visit the Villa Angiolina and its adjoining park. The villa was built in 1844 by Iginio Scarpa, a wealthy merchant, and it started the fashion for Austrian nobility taking their summers in Opatija. The adjacent park contains more than 150 species of plants from as far away as China and South America, collected through Scarpa’s extensive trading network. Ginkgos, pines, cedars, spruces, palms and camellias are all to be found in the park’s extensive collection.
Lunch and the remainder of the afternoon are at leisure, with the opportunity to visit Opatija’s Church of St James and Church of the Annunciation. (B)

 

TUE 07 MAY / OPATIJA – VENICE

Check out from the hotel in the morning and bid farewell to Croatia, travelling westward along the coast to Venice, the ‘Queen of the Adriatic’. Stop for lunch en route.
Arrive in Venice in the afternoon and check in to the hotel, followed by an evening at leisure. (BL)

 

WED 08 MAY / VENICE

Spend a day exploring some of the public and private gardens of Venice. The city’s status as one of the mighty ‘maritime republics’ of the Middle Ages brought wealth and exotic goods flowing into Venice, and leading citizens confidently displayed the spoils of their commerce by constructing elegant villas and formal gardens amongst the dense alleys of the city. In the morning, visit some of these ‘hidden gems’ of Venice, such as the gardens of Ca’ Zenobio, the former home of the scholarly Armenian Mekhitarist monks, and the elegant Italianate gardens of the Palazzo Malipiero which overlook the Canal Grande. Enjoy a light lunch at a local restaurant in Venice, and then visit the Hotel Cipriani on the island of Giudecca in the afternoon to explore its exquisite gardens, followed by afternoon tea. The evening is at leisure. (BL)

 

THU 09 MAY / VENICE

Today, travel inland into the Venetian countryside, tracing the Brenta River past Renaissance and Baroque villas which were once home to noble Venetian families such as the Foscari and the Pisani. Cruise upriver to the Villa Foscari, known as ‘La Malcontenta’ after a bride who married into the family and found her husband less than satisfactory. Designed by Andrea Palladio, this temple-villa is nestled between weeping willows on the banks of the Brenta. Visit the Villa Widmann, an 18th century mansion surrounded by Italian cypress (Cupressus sempervirens) and horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum) trees.After some free time for lunch in Dolo (own arrangements), visit the Villa Pisani in Strà, decorated with magnificent frescoes which were the final works of Giambattista Tiepolo. Return to Venice in the afternoon. This evening, join Helen and fellow travellers for a special farewell dinner in Venice. (BD)

 

FRI 10 MAY / DEPART VENICE

Tour arrangements conclude after breakfast.
If you are leaving Venice today, make your way to the railway station or airport for your onward journey. If returning to Australia or New Zealand today, suggested afternoon flights on Emirates via Dubai. Renaissance Tours or your travel agent can assist you with your flights and other travel arrangements, including any additional accommodation, either before or after the tour.
(B)

Gardens of New Zealand with Helen Young

Gardens of New Zealand with Helen Young

 

Join garden writer Helen Young to explore the best of New Zealand’s springtime gardens, including the spectacular annual Taranaki Garden Festival.

New Zealand is a hidden gem of garden design, combining English landscape garden design with colonial heritage, indigenous flora and Māori reverence for the natural world.

Begin in Christchurch on the South Island and wander through Broadfield Garden and the elegant Ohinetahi. Visit Upton Oaks, Paripuma and Bankhouse near Blenheim and then cross the Cook Strait to the North Island to visit the annual Taranaki Garden Festival in New Plymouth, where scores of private gardens open their gates to visitors for just a few days in the year. Conclude in Auckland, with a visit to Ayrlies Garden, the ‘quintessential New Zealand garden’.

 

AT A GLANCE:

• In the Christchurch region, wander through the carefully structured Ohinetahi Garden and then visit Broadfield, which combines rhododendrons, lilies and daffodils with a forest of indigenous ferns and Kauri trees
• In New Plymouth, explore private gardens open only during the Taranaki Garden Festival, an annual showcase of more than 40 gardens, celebrity chef demonstrations and guided walks
• Visit the knot-garden of Upton Oaks in Blenheim, and the gardens of Barewood in Awatere, designed to complement a century-old homestead, and Ayrlies Garden in Auckland
• Enjoy the wine of New Zealand’s famed Marlborough region, one of the great Sauvignon Blanc producers of the world.

 

TOUR LEADER:

Horticulturist, garden writer, presenter and author, Helen Young has led more than 20 garden tours internationally and domestically. She is well known for her weekly columns in The Weekend Australian over the last 17 years, and as House and Garden magazine’s garden writer for more than 10 years. Sydneysiders know her as a long-term regular expert on ABC Sydney Radio’s Saturday morning gardening program, but she also runs her own successful horticulture business.

 

Friday 19 October 2018 / Arrive Christchurch

Suggested afternoon arrival in Christchurch. Renaissance Tours or your travel agent can assist you with your flights and other travel arrangements. In the evening join Helen and fellow garden lovers for a special welcome dinner. (D)

 

Sat 20 Nov / Christchurch

Today explore two outstanding gardens. First visit Broadfield New Zealand Landscape Garden, a 3.5 hectare showcase garden established in the 1990s. Many native plants are used formally and informally as are NZ-raised varieties of azaleas, rhododendrons, camellias, maples, peonies and roses. It includes a Kauri forest with over 100 trees and scores of species of other forest trees, shrubs, climbers and ferns.
After lunch, visit Ohinetahi, a well-structured, carefully designed garden created by architect Sir Miles Warren which consists of a number of formal rooms, of differing style and character. The garden houses an important sculpture collection and a small art gallery. Hedges are used to shelter plants that would otherwise struggle in the high winds. Features include a herb potager, box-edged rose garden, herbaceous borders, a ‘Red Garden’, gazebo, rectangular pond, arched bridge and statues. There are spectacular views down to Lyttleton Harbour. Enjoy afternoon tea in the garden before returning to your hotel for an evening at leisure.(BL)

 

Sun 21 Oct / Christchurch – Greymouth

Enjoy a morning to explore the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. Founded in 1863 with the planting of an English oak tree, over the years natural wetlands and sand dunes have been transformed into an elegantly cultivated 21 hectare park with more than 10 different gardens framed by mature trees and expansive lawns, which are mostly contained within a loop of the Avon River.

After lunch in the gardens, depart Christchurch for a scenic drive over the Southern Alps to Greymouth. Drive across the Canterbury Plain and climb to more than 900 metres through Arthur’s Pass National Park before descending to Greymouth. In the late afternoon, arrive in Greymouth, known for its gold mining heritage and pounamu (New Zealand jade). (BLD)

 

Mon 22 Oct / Greymouth – Blenheim

Depart Greymouth and travel along the scenic West Coast, stopping to see the New Zealand fur seal colony at Cape Foulwind and the Punakaiki pancake rocks and blowholes.

Begin your exploration of the Marlborough area and its gardens with Bankhouse Garden, one of the highlights of the Wairau Valley. Meander through the lower level into a shaded gully that hosts rhododendrons and bog plants. Continue towards the house and onwards to the upper level garden terraces where you find rambling roses and a variety of drought-resistant plants. In the afternoon, arrive in Blenheim, our base for the next three nights. (BD)

 

Tue 23 Oct / Blenheim

After breakfast, visit Barewood Garden for a guided tour and lunch. Recognised as a ‘Garden of National Significance’, Barewood garden is designed to complement the 100-year-old homestead, and features formal allées of hawthorn and Malus, plantings of unusual trees and shrubs and a classic potager featuring espaliered fruit.

Continue to Paripuma Garden, with its unique collection of indigenous and rare plant species that have created a haven for wildlife on what was once a bare sandy paddock.

Depart for a visit to Allan Scott Wines, the family-owned winery established by Allan and Catherine Scott. Enjoy a wine tasting and free time in the European-style courtyard with its exceptional gardens and vistas over the vineyards beyond. (BL)

 

Wed 24 Oct / Blenheim

Begin with a visit to Huguette Michel’s Hortensia House. The Monet-inspired garden is informal in design and is loosely themed on blue and yellow, capturing an essence of serenity and reflecting the colours of the house. Huguette’s favourite shade of hydrangea is blue and these, along with lavenders, forget-me-nots, love-in-a-mists and other plants provide the blue tones throughout the garden. Yellow is provided by varieties of roses, pansies, daisies, aquilegias and gazanias.

Following a wine tasting and lunch at a local winery, visit Upton Oaks, the English-inspired garden of Dave and Sue Monahan developed around a restored 1911 Victorian villa. Brick walls, ponds, perennial borders and a 17th century style ‘knot-garden’ are divided into sections by colour. Upton Oaks is also recognised as a ‘Garden of National Significance’.
(BL)

 

Thu 25 Oct / Blenheim – Wellington

After breakfast, depart for Picton and enjoy the scenic crossing on the Interislander ferry to Wellington. The three-hour journey is considered one of the most spectacular cruises in the world. Arrive at the hotel in the early afternoon and enjoy some free time in Wellington. (BL)

 

Fri 26 Oct / Wellington

Begin with a walking orientation tour of the vibrant city of Wellington, nestled around the harbour and surrounded by natural scenery. See the famous ‘Beehive’ and Parliament Buildings and visit Saint Paul’s Cathedral.

Drive out of Wellington into the picturesque Ohariu Valley to Pepped Warbeck garden, another ‘Garden of Significance’. The garden consists of a majestic entrance and long curving drive, planted with Marlborough daisies and many different native trees and shrubs. Extensive lawns sweep down to the re-modelled bog garden which features five adjoining ponds planted with primulas, bog irises, hostas and gunnera.

After lunch, return to Wellington for a visit to the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, a fascinating centre dedicated to art, history and Māori culture. Its Māori name translates as ‘The Treasure Chest’. (BL)

 

Sat 27 Oct / Wellington – New Plymouth

Depart Wellington for a leisurely drive to New Plymouth. En route, stop for lunch and a visit to Nicki and Clive Higgie’s garden, Paloma, near Wanganui. This exotic ‘Garden of National Significance’ is landscaped with plants from all over the world, and is presented as several distinct zones, including the Palm Garden, the Desert House, the Garden of Death, the Bamboo Forests, the Jardin Exotique, the Wedding Lawn and the two Arboreta. In the afternoon, continue to New Plymouth, our base for the next four nights. (BL)

 

Sun 28 – Tue 30 Oct / New Plymouth (Taranaki Garden Festivals)

New Plymouth is home to the annual ten-day PowerCo Taranaki Garden Festival (formerly the Taranaki Rhododendron & Garden Festival), which showcases some of New Zealand’s most stunning private and public gardens.

The 2018 festival features over 40 diverse and inspiring gardens, including many ‘Gardens of National Significance’, newly-added gardens and more than a dozen special events. Nearly all of the gardens are private gardens and are opened exclusively for the duration of the festival.

The festival includes a mixture of events, including house and garden tours, celebrity chef demonstrations, guided walks, workshops and a diverse garden speaker series.

During this period, another garden festival also takes place in Taranaki region – the Taranaki Fringe Garden Festival. The Fringe Festival includes a selection of gardens from cottage gardens to native gardens, highly structured to informal gardens, and is presented with a distinctive laid-back Kiwi charm.

Helen and the festival organisers will curate a stimulating programme in both the PowerCo Taranaki Garden Festival and the Taranaki Fringe Garden Festival, from the huge range of gardens and events on offer over the three days we will spend here.

In addition to its beautiful parks and gardens, the city of New Plymouth is known for its sunny climate and art galleries, while the conical shape of Mount Taranaki provides a dramatic backdrop to the city. Meanwhile, down at the waterfront are Puke Ariki, an integrated museum-library-heritage centre, the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery, New Zealand’s first museum of contemporary art, and the Len Lye Centre, the country’s first museum devoted to a single artist. (B, L or D)

 

Wed 31 Oct / New Plymouth – Hamilton – Auckland

Depart New Plymouth for a leisurely day’s drive to Auckland. En route, stop in Hamilton to visit the Hamilton Garden. Often mistakenly referred to as a ‘botanic garden’, Hamilton Garden is rather a collection of themed gardens, exploring different civilisations and recreating historically important garden styles from around the world. In the afternoon, continue to Auckland. (BD)

 

Thu 01 Nov / Auckland

Spend the day in some of Auckland’s most interesting gardens. In the morning, visit Ayrlies, situated in the gently rolling country of east Auckland. This is one of New Zealand’s best-known gardens, characterised by sweeping lawns and informal but detailed plantings beside ponds and waterways. Then visit Eden Garden with its collections of perennials, vireyas, camellias, bromeliads and native New Zealand plants. Return to the hotel for an afternoon at leisure. In the evening, celebrate the conclusion of the tour with a special farewell dinner with Helen and fellow travellers. (BD)

 

Fri 02 Nov / Depart Auckland

Tour arrangements conclude after breakfast. Renaissance Tours or your travel agent can assist you with your travel arrangements, including flights and post-tour accommodation. (B)

 

Note: At time of publication (April 2018), most but not all garden visits were confirmed. Private owners, in particular, are reluctant to commit more than two to three months prior to the visit. Therefore, while we undertake to operate the tour as published, there may be some changes to the itinerary.

Floralies Flower Show, Art, Tulips and the Seine River Cruise

Floralies Flower Show, Art, Tulips and the Seine River Cruise

Itinerary

 

Day 1. Arrive Amsterdam
Be met on arrival and transferred to your river ship for a Welcome Dinner at 6.30pm.
Seven Nights: aboard the luxurious river ship MS AmaStella (D)

Day 2. Amsterdam and Edam, Freedom of Choice
Today you have a choice of two touring options. Cruise through Amsterdam’s canals, then rejoin your ship and cruise to Volendam, a maze of fishermen’s houses built on poles with a unique open harbour. Others may choose to visit the gardens of Kasteel de Haar, a stunning late medieval castle and garden. After lunch enjoy a tour of Volendam Harbour before continuing to Edam for a walking tour of the Old Quarter. This evening there will be a very special lecture by Anna Pavord, author of The Tulip. (BLD)

Day 3. Arnhem, Freedom of Choice
This morning after breakfast, you will arrive into Arnhem where you will have a choice of two sightseeing activities. Your first option is to see the monument commemorating the Battle of Arnhem Bridge, made famous by the classic film A Bridge Too Far. You’ll also visit the Airborne Museum and learn more about the Battle of Arnhem, one of the major campaigns of World War II. Your second choice is a tour of the most stunning royal residence in Holland, Het Loo Palace, with lavishly furnished rooms and meticulously sculpted gardens. After your tour, return to the ship for lunch and cruise to Nijmegen where you can enjoy some free time. Enjoy scenic cruising this evening as you sail through the Netherlands en route to Belgium. (BLD)

Day 4. Antwerp, Freedom of Choice
On arrival in Antwerp, choose from a guided city tour or a tour taking you to sites associated with the famous Flemish Baroque artist, Peter Paul Rubens. You will also visit the Antwerp Cathedral, which houses two of Rubens’ most important works, The Elevation of the Cross and The Descent from the Cross. Enjoy the afternoon at your leisure to relax or take a Culinary Delights tour to sample waffles and chocolate. Alternatively, perhaps join an excursion to the beautiful city of Bruges with its stunning system of canals. During dinner, your ship will set out for the charming medieval city of Ghent. (BLD)

Day 5. Ghent, Freedom of Choice
Today you will have a choice of two touring options. The first option is to spend a full day to explore Floralies in Ghent. Floralies is the largest inside garden in the world with a surface area of 450,000 m² and exhibits more than 500,000 varieties of plants and flowers. Alternatively spend a half day at Floralies and then enjoy a visit to a beautiful private garden designed by Chris Gheyslen in the afternoon. (BD)

Day 6. Willemstad and Kinderdjik, Freedom of Choice
Cruise back to the Netherlands. This morning you may choose to visit the charming 400-year old town of Willemstad for a walking tour and private organ recital at the oldest Protestant church in the Netherlands. This afternoon, the touring options include a visit to Kinderdijk, a lovely region renowned for having the greatest concentration of windmills in the entire country. Another option is to take a day tour to Rotterdam and The Hague, visiting Westbroekpark with its superb rhododendrons and Delft’s Botanic Gardens. A third option is to visit the exhibition of the world-famous artist MC Escher, housed in the former Winter Palace of Queen Mother Emma of the Netherlands, and option four is to visit Mauritshaus, home of Johannes Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring. Tonight, enjoy a special onboard musical performance as the ship cruises to Schoonhoven. (BLD)

Day 7. Utrecht and Keukenhof Gardens
Cruise along the Amsterdam-Rhine Canal to Utretcht. Disembark and travel to Keukenhof Gardens, which encompasses over 70 acres of parkland. Relish the chance to admire the spectacular display of bulb flowers in bloom during a morning sightseeing excursion. Keukenhof also features several ponds, sculpture gardens, greenhouses and a windmill. Return to your ship for lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy an excursion to delightful Zaanse Schans, a small historic village just outside of Amsterdam. This evening enjoy a special Farewell Dinner whilst moored in Amsterdam. (BLD)

Day 8. Amsterdam Sightseeing
Disembark your ship early this morning to visit the world famous Aalsmeer Flower Markets. Afterwards we will visit a cut flower nursery to see some of the millions of flowers being grown for sale and export around the world. For lunch we will dine at De Kas, with its own greenhouses and garden near the restaurant, where they grow Mediterranean vegetables, herbs and edible flowers. This afternoon is free to explore Amsterdam, perhaps visit the newly renovated Rijksmusuem.
Stay: Amsterdam, Marriott Hotel or similar (BL)

Day 9. Amsterdam to Paris
Depart Amsterdam after breakfast and travel through the Dutch, Belgium and French countryside to Paris. Board our river ship for a Welcome Dinner.
Seven Nights: aboard the MS AmaLegro (BD)

Day 10. Vernon, Freedom of Choice
Spend the morning enjoying the scenery along the Seine as you cruise to the provincial town of Vernon. You will have free time to explore the town, and later, we visit Giverny and the home and gardens of Claude Monet. The artist lived here for more than four decades and immortalised his ponds and flower gardens in some of his most iconic paintings. Alternatively, you may choose to tour the palace and gardens of Chateau de Bizy. Inspired by Versailles, Chateau de Bizy was constructed as a royal chateau and is home to descendents of Emperor Napoleon. (BLD)

Day 11. Caudebec, Freedom of Choice
After a scenic morning cruise on the Seine, arrive in the old fishing village of Caudebec. You will have a choice of two tours. The first option is to visit Honfleur, a historic and picturesque port with pastel-coloured houses that was a favourite subject of artists such as Courbet, Boudin and Monet. As an alternative, choose the ‘Routes des Abbayes’ excursion spotlighting Normandy’s famous abbeys, more than 100 of which once covered this region. You will visit the ruined abbey in Jumièges as well as St. Wandrille, which is still a working monastery. Or you may wish to visit two gardens of major importance at Varengeville-sur-Mer, which is near Dieppe, Le Vasterival and Les Bois des Moutiers. (BLD)

Day 12. Normandy, Freedom of Choice
Today you may choose to visit the D-Day beaches and learn about the historic events of June 6, 1944. Another option is to visit Bayeaux, for a gardens and culture tour including a visit to the Bayeaux tapestry and visit Brecy garden, considered the most beautiful garden in Lower Normandy. A further option is to visit rural Normandy, which includes a visit to the Pays d’Auge famed for its apple orchards and the ‘Routes du Cidre’ the Cider Road. (BLD)

Day 13. Rouen Sightseeing
Enjoy a morning walk through this medieval city and see the imposing Notre Dame Cathedral, painted numerous times by Monet, and the square where Joan of Arc was martyred. Afterwards, you will have free time to explore Rouen, perhaps sampling some delicious cheeses. This afternoon you will have the opportunity to visit the spectacular garden Le Jardin Plume, just outside of Rouen, or Jane Webster’s Chateau Bosgouet. Afterwards enjoy scenic cruising on the Seine to Les Andelys. (BLD)

Day 14. Les Andelys
A stroll along the river in Les Andelys offers beautiful views of the Seine Valley’s dramatic white cliffs, centuries-old half-timbered houses, and the hilltop ruins of Château Gaillard. This former stronghold of Richard the Lionheart changed hands a number of times during the Hundred Years’ War. Athletically-inclined guests may enjoy hiking up to visit the ruins of this historic castle before we continue our cruise to Conflans. (BLD)

Day 15. Malmaison, Freedom of Choice
Today you have a choice of two excursions. Visit Château Malmaison, former home of Napoleon and Josephine, including the Château’s interior, gardens and museum. Alternatively, travel to Auvers-sur-Oise, a town famous for the Impressionist painters who lived there in the 19th century, such as Paul Cézanne and Camille Pissarro. Your Artists’ Walk tour will include many sites associated with their work, including the Auberge Ravoux, former home of Vincent van Gogh. The ship departs this afternoon for Paris, arriving in the early evening. (BLD)

Day 16. Paris, Disembark Ship
Depart the ship after breakfast this morning. (B)

Botanical Experts
Julie Prent and Dr Toby Musgrave, garden author and historian is your Botanical Guide. Special Guest Lecturer is Anna Pavord, Author of The Tulip.

This tour can be combined with:

· Mediterranean Landscapes Cruise (BTIN15)
· Morocco Art & Gardens (BTMOR10)

Cherry Blossoms in Japan and South Korea Cruise

Cherry Blossoms in Japan and South Korea Cruise

 

ITIINERARY

 

Day 1. Arrive Osaka
Arrive into Osaka Airport and be met and transferred to your hotel. This evening at 6.30pm, enjoy a Welcome Dinner where you’ll have the opportunity to meet your fellow Botanica travellers.
Stay: Osaka, Imperial Hotel or similar (D)

Day 2. Kyoto and Embark Ship
This morning depart Osaka to Kyoto where we will visit the rock garden masterpiece
of Ryoanji and Kinkakuji, a fine example of Muromachi period garden design. After lunch, transfer to the MS Caledonian Sky in Kobe. Enjoy a special dinner with the ship’s crew this evening, as we set sail for the port of Okayama.
Ten Nights: MS Caledonian Sky (BLD)

Day 3. Okayama, Koraku-en Garden and Kurashiki.
After breakfast this morning, we will visit Koraku-en Garden, one of Japan’s most significant gardens – the name meaning ‘garden of pleasure after’. Visit a classic teahouse, and experience a traditional tea ceremony. After a local lunch, continue to Kurashiki, where we explore the old merchant quarter and its fine 17th century wooden warehouses. The beautiful houses are painted white with traditional black tiles, and are situated along a canal lined with rows of majestic weeping willows. (BLD)

Day 4. Takamatsu and Ritsurin Park
Today tour the stunning city of Takamatsu on Shikoku, the smallest of the four main Japanese Islands. We will journey over the Seto-Ohashi Bridge and visit Ritsurin Park, a 350-year-old garden, famous for its magnificent spring colours. See the Chrysanthemum-Moon Pavilion, then visit Kinashi Bonsai Town. (BLD)

Day 5. Hiroshima and Miyajima
Arrive in Hiroshima to visit the compelling Peace Memorial Park. The park is dotted with memorials, including the cenotaph that contains the names of all the known victims of the A-bomb. Return to the ship for lunch, then continue to Miyajima. Considered one of Japan’s top scenic wonders, Miyajima provides a picture-postcard vista of the scarlet Torii Gate, the giant camphor wood gates at the entrance to the Shinto Shrine. We will go ashore to explore the World Heritage-listed Itsukushima Jinja Shrine, founded in the 6th century and dedicated to three sea goddesses. (BLD)

Day 6. Uwajima
Arrive in Uwajima, situated deep inside the saw-toothed coast of Uwajima Bay. The city of Uwajima is emerging as the nation’s largest pearl cultivation centre. Learn the process of implanting, harvesting, extracting and sorting pearls on a visit to a pearl farm. We will continue to Sakiiya Square or choose to visit Dairakuji Temple. (BLD)

Day 7. Nagasaki and Dejima Island
Arrive at Nagasaki, the second city destroyed by an A-bomb in World War II. Tour the Peace Memorial Park, Atomic Bomb Museum and Glover Garden. Continue to Dejima Island, built during the Edo Period to accommodate Portuguese Christian missionaries and prevent the propagation of their religion. It was also once the residential quarters of the Dutch, the only foreigners allowed to trade in Japan during the Sakoku isolation Period for 200 years, until Japan reopened to the world. (BLD)

Day 8. Pusan, South Korea
Embark on a full-day excursion to Kyongju, in South Korea, a World Heritage-listed site often described as the world’s finest open-air museum. As the ancient capital of the Shilla Dynasty, Kyongju’s heritage dates back to the first millennium. As we stroll through some of the numerous excavated monuments, temples, tombs and pagodas, there will be time to explore the National Museum, with its exceptional collection of finely worked gold jewellery, metal weapons and distinctive pottery. At lunch, sample Korean delicacies and enjoy the spectacle of traditional dancers during a cultural performance. (BLD)

Day 9. Hagi
Japan’s revolution began here in Jokamachi’s old Samurai residential quarter, where we will tour a Samurai’s home. We will also visit the historic Daisho Temple, the resting place of the two first Mori daimyo a family of powerful and territorial pre-modern Japanese lords and all of the even-numbered daimyo. This traditional temple is located on Mount Mison, considered a holy mountain, on the island of Itsukushima. Inside, you will find a flame that is said to have been burning for some 1,200 years. We will also take time to explore Hagi, one of Japan’s most beautiful castle towns, where you can explore the old streets and see the Hagi Castle ruins, Shizuki Park and the Tokoji Temple. (BLD)

Day 10. Matsue and Yuushien Garden
Known as the ‘Town of Water’, Matsue, is on the shores of a scenic lake and a large lagoon. Here, you’ll visit a number of cultural attractions including Matsue Castle. Known as the ‘Black Castle’, it is one of only a few wooden Medieval castles that remain in Japan today. Admire the structure’s complexity from the outside, as it stands gracefully, watching over the city, and take the opportunity to explore the interior, which affords magnificent views of Lake Shinji. This afternoon, we will visit the stunning Yuushien Garden, a traditional flower garden full of colour and blossom, famous for ginseng and peonies. (BLD)

Day 11. Kanazawa and Kenroku-en Garden
Kanazawa is a thriving centre of the arts, long known for its lacquer-ware, outstanding collectible pottery of the Kutani style, gold-leaf workmanship and delicate hand-painting of silk for kimonos and Noh theatre dramas. The winding cobblestone streets have a quaint photogenic charm. Around each bend is a traditional house, museum, art gallery, craft shop, Samurai residence and even a Geisha house to explore. The fascinating open-air market displays a vast variety of items from flowers to fish to local handicrafts. Next we visit the Kanazawa Castle ruins, which is one of Japan’s premier highlights, and the famed Kenroku-en Garden, is ranked among the country’s top gardens. (BLD)

Day 12. Kanazawa and Tokyo
Disembark the ship this morning and take the Bullet Train to Tokyo. On arrival, enjoy an afternoon sightseeing tour of Tokyo. We then transfer to our hotel for an overnight stay and Farewell Dinner.
Stay: Tokyo, New Otani Hotel or similar (BLD)

Day 13. Depart Tokyo.
After breakfast this morning, you will be transferred to the airport by shuttle bus for your flight home. (B)

Japanese Cherry Blossoms
Embark on a stylish voyage of horticultural discovery and explore this fascinating region, aboard this Botanica cruise. In the heart of cherry blossom season, Botanica guests will be enchanted by the sight of the beautiful and richly symbolic sakura flower in full bloom. Venture along the historic shores of Japan and South Korea on this incredible botanical journey. The cherry blossom heralds the start of spring and the delicate blossom only stays on the trees for two weeks. This time of year is highly revered by the Japanese, who celebrate with festivals and events.

US Mansions and Gardens of the Hudson River and Canadian Lakes Cruise in Fall

US Mansions and Gardens of the Hudson River and Canadian Lakes Cruise in Fall

ITINERARY

Day 1. Arrive Washington
Be met at the airport and join your fellow travellers for dinner at 6.30pm.
Two Nights: Washington DC, Fairmont Hotel or similar (D)

Day 2. Washington and Mt. Vernon
See the sights of Washington including the White House. Visit Mt Vernon, the former home
of America’s first ‘gardening President’, George Washington, and Hillwood Estate. (BD)

Day 3. Virginia and Wilmington
Travel through southern Pennsylvania and explore an Amish farm house. Visit Chanticleer, one of the great gardens of the region.
Two Nights: Wilmington, Du Pont Hotel or similar (BD)

Day 4. Brandywine Valley
Spend the morning at Longwood Gardens. With 20 outdoor display gardens, as well as lakes, meadows and forest walks, there is plenty to explore. This afternoon visit Winterthur Garden, home of Henry Du Pont. (BD)

Day 5. New York City
Depart Wilmington for New York City where you will board your ship. 15 day BTUS15 travellers join this evening in time for dinner at 6.30pm. This afternoon visit the walkway garden designed by James Corner of Field Operations in conjunction with Piet Oudolf, the Highline.
Fourteen Nights: aboard the comfortable MV Grande Mariner (BD)

Day 6. New York City and Kykuit
Visit the famed New York Botanical Gardens, boasting one of the world’s greatest collections of flora. Its 250 acres include some of the most beautiful natural terrain. It houses the nation’s largest Victorian-era glasshouse, the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory. Next stop is Kykuit, a Hudson Valley landmark and home to four generations of the Rockefeller family. See the Rockefeller private art collection and magnificent expansive garden terraces, garden ornaments and many fountains, as well as spectacular views of the Hudson Valley. Your day culminates with a cocktail party atop the deck of your ship as you bid farewell to New York City. Enjoy the unparalleled views of the harbour, the illuminated Statue of Liberty and the iconic city skyline. (BLD)

Day 7. Roosevelt Estate and Gardens, Poughkeepsie
A short cruise takes you from Bear Mountain to West Point, located in the heart of the Hudson River Valley. This morning choose to visit either the West Point Military Academy campus, including its gothic revival style chapel. Alternatively visit Boscobel with its colonial architecture or Stonecrop with its magnificent garden. Heading north on the Hudson River you will stop in Poughkeepsie. Here choose to visit either historic Hyde Park, including a visit to Springwood, the estate of Franklin D. Roosevelt, America’s only four-term president. Alternatively visit the Vanderbilt Mansion, a National Historic site. You are sure to enjoy its 211 acres of parkland that boast centuries old tree plantings and stunning Hudson River and Catskill Mountain views. (BLD)

Day 8. The Mount, Naumkeag Mansion and Gardens
Arrive in Troy, known for its unparalleled Victorian architecture and abundant Tiffany windows as seen in such films as Edith Wharton’s Age of Innocence. Here, witness the unique feat of lowering the ship’s pilot house as we prepare to travel under the low bridges of the Erie Canal. A visit to The Mount is sure to be a fascinating one of historical significance; especially for those interested in women’s history. It is a turn-of-the-century home that Edith Wharton designed and built herself. She was an established author of fiction, architecture and gardens. Later visit Naumkeag Mansion and gardens and experience a quintessential country estate of the Gilded Age. Marvel at this rare Berkshire cottage, its magnificent gardens and the incredible panoramic view. (BLD)

Day 9. Troy, Erie Canal Lock 11 and Amsterdam
Today your river ship will pass through Lock 11 of the Erie Canal to Amsterdam. (BLD)

Day 10. Amsterdam and Sylvan Beach
Today you will enjoy a full day on the Erie Canal taking in the unspoiled beauty of the surrounding countryside. During the day, you may choose to visit Cooperstown and meet the ship later in the day at Sylvan Beach. Located in the foothills of the Catskill Mountains, Cooperstown is best known as the ‘Birthplace of Baseball’ and is home to the renowned Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. Choose to visit Fenimore Art Museum or Farmers Museum. Tonight in Sylvan Beach, on the shores of shimmering Oneida Lake, a local performer will entertain and pay tribute to the history and music of the Erie Canal. (BLD)

Day 11. Sylvan Beach and Oswego Canal
Cruise along the Oswego Canal to Oswego on the shores of magnificent Lake Ontario. You may choose to take a local shuttle on a panoramic loop around this charming area and view some of the highlights. (BLD)

Day 12. Boldt Castle and Garden, Thousand Islands and Alexander Bay
Cruise to Clayton. Visit the Antique Boat Museum and the majestic Boldt Castle and gardens where you will learn of the touching story behind its creation. Enjoy scenic cruising through the beautiful Thousand Islands, a favourite holiday destination. (BLD)

Day 13. Alexander Bay, Dark Island and Ogdensburg
Visit tiny Dark Island in Chippewa Bay and tour Singer Castle. Afterwards, journey on to Ogdensburg where you might like to visit the Frederic Remington Art Museum. BLD

Day 14. St. Lawrence Seaway
Crossing into Canada, you will cruise the St. Lawrence Seaway, a system of locks, canals, and channels dotted with waterfront communities, scenic islands, and amazing wildlife habitats. (BLD)

Day 15. Québec City
Today you will take a tour of the private garden of La Seigneurie de I’ile d’Orleans. Afterwards, a sightseeing tour will introduce you to the highlights of the beautiful city of Québec. (BLD)

Day 16. Rimouski and Les Jardins de Metis
Cruise north along the St. Lawrence River passing the beautiful Saguenay River en route to Rimouski. Be sure to look out for whales as this is one of the world’s best locales for whale watching. A private visit and guided tour of Les Jardins de Metis also known as Reford Gardens is sure to be a fascinating one. The unique garden is bold and innovative, yet traditional. Few gardens have been built in such difficult and harsh conditions as the Québec climate; it is a story of triumph. (BLD)

Day 17. Saguenay River and St. Lawrence River
Cruise to the breathtaking Saguenay River, boarded by dramatic cliffs which create some of Canada’s most stunning natural scenery. You then cruise south on the St. Lawrence River to your next destination, Montréal. (BLD)

Day 18. Montréal
Arrive in Montréal this afternoon and embark on a city highlights tour. Then, enjoy a guided tour of the world famous Jardin Botanique de Montréal located in the Olympic Park. Here, marvel at over 20,000 species of plants as you explore the 31 gardens which have been planted over 75 hectares. (BLD)

Day 19. Depart Montréal
Disembark in Montréal and transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

The MV Grande Mariner
The Grande Mariner is designed to travel where larger ships can’t. The retractable pilot house allows it to slip gently beneath low bridges and transit narrow locks and rivers. It is like sailing on a friend’s yacht but with the comfort and safety of an American crew and friendly staff. From the lounge area enjoy 180° panoramas of pristine environments and small towns. Dining is casual, with an open seating policy. Cabins are air-conditioned and comfortable with either slide windows or portholes. Whilst the ship can accommodate 96 people, Botanica will only be taking 75, making this a very relaxing experience.

Unforgettable Fall Colours
During our US and Canadian journey, you’ll explore elaborate mansions and thoughtfully landscaped estates. The diverse range of gardens we visit will inspire, motivate and challenge you in your own horticultural endeavours. Styles vary from formal to casual, intimate to grand, but all with something different to offer. It’s a truly special experience to visit this region in the Fall. The striking hues and vibrancy of the foliage, as well as the tantalising seasonal produce, is sure to make your trip memorable. This is an incredible journey, unique to Botanica, and not to be missed.

Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo

Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo

 

Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo is a premium 5 star hotel located in uptown Mejiro in the heart of Tokyo. The hotel is a 3-minute taxi ride or a 10-minute walk from Edogawabashi Station on the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho line.

The hotel has 260 rooms, 36 banquet halls and 12 restaurants.

The gardens have many historical artefacts, such as the three-storey pagoda, a sacred tree reputed to be more than 500 years old and many statues, lanterns and shrines.

The gardens are beautiful in all four seasons.

Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo
10-8, Sekiguchi 2-chome, Bunkyo-ku
Tokyo,
112-8680, Japan

Tel: +81 3 3943-1111
Fax: +81 3 3943-2300
Email: info@hotel-chinzanso.com

British Isles, Castles, Gardens, History and Birdlife Cruise

British Isles, Castles, Gardens, History and Birdlife Cruise

 

ITINERARY

 

Day 1. Arrive Edinburgh and Embark Ship
On arrival in the Scottish capital, Edinburgh, you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to the port of Leith. Board the MS Hebridean Sky after 4.00pm, your home for the next 10 nights. After settling in to your suite, enjoy a Welcome Dinner this evening.
Ten Nights: the MS Hebridean Sky (D)

Day 2. Aberdeen and Crathes Castle
Cruising along Scotland’s east coast, over the waters of the North Sea, today you’ll arrive at Aberdeen. Disembark and travel by coach through Royal Deeside, the picturesque valley of the River Dee. Absorb the lovely scenery as you head to Crathes Castle, a 16th-century castle that’s famous for its splendid landscaped grounds and gardens. Return to your ship for lunch before enjoying an afternoon visit to Pitmedden Garden. (BLD)

Day 3. Inverewe Gardens
Today your ship will drop anchor and you’ll enjoy a Zodiac ride to one of Scotland’s premier gardens, Inverewe. This botanical garden in the north-west Highlands, presents an amazing collection of exotic trees and shrubs that are sheltered by well-positioned windbreaks of native pine. After a tour, return by Zodiac to your ship and set off during lunch across The Minch and past the Isle of Skye. (BLD)

Day 4. Isle of Mull, Duart Castle, Isle of Iona
Freedom of Choice. After breakfast, set off to the Isle of Mull where you have two touring options. The first option is to visit a quaint private garden and the second option is Duart Castle, a 13th century clifftop castle set in the Millennium Wood. Later cruise to the Isle of Iona, a place of tranquility where more than 40 Scottish Kings, as well as Kings from Ireland, France and Norway are buried. After exploring Iona Abbey, perhaps take a short walk to the Bay at the Back of the Ocean – named because the next westward stop is North America. BLD

Day 5. Isle of Gigha, Achamore House and Gardens and Isle of Jura
This morning visit the beautiful Isle of Gigha. Privately owned by its 120 inhabitants, the landscape consists of heather-covered hills, deserted sandy beaches, clear green seas and just the one single-lane road, which meanders between quaint cottages and farms. Here, you’ll enjoy time to wander the gardens of Achamore House. Laid out by Sir James Horlick from 1944, this stunning garden boasts a wonderful collection of azaleas, rhododendrons and exotic plants. Returning to your ship for lunch, you’ll then cruise to the Isle of Jura, where you’ll enjoy the opportunity to visit the 200 year-old single malt Scotch whisky distillery. (BLD)

Day 6. Belfast and Mount Stewart, Freedom of Choice.
This morning enjoy a sightseeing tour of Belfast. This afternoon you can choose from two options, either the Titanic Exhibition or Mount Stewart, an 18th century house and garden in County Down. Planted in the 1920s by Lady Londonderry, the gardens today are owned by The National Trust and are of significant international importance. Here, a series of outdoor ‘rooms’ and vibrant parterres contain many rare plants that thrive in the mild climate of the Ards Peninsula. Enjoy time to explore the gardens as well as the opulent house, which boasts a fascinating heritage and contains world-famous artefacts and artwork. Then return to your ship for dinner. (BLD)

Day 7. Portmeirion and Bodnant Garden, Freedom of Choice
This morning you’ll cruise into Holyhead to spend a full day exploring this spectacular part of Wales. Visit Portmeirion, an extraordinary Mediterranean-style village designed and built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis between 1925 and 1975. Choose from a tour of the village and its gardens or the gardens of nearby Plas Brondanw, the family home of Williams-Ellis. Afterwards drive through the famous Snowdonia region to Bodnant Garden, one of the most beautiful gardens in the United Kingdom. Spanning some 80 acres, the garden is set above the River Conwy and offers views to the Snowdonia range. Stroll through the Upper Garden, with its terraces and informal lawns, then continue into the Dell, the wild garden of the lower section formed by the valley of the River Hiraethlyn. Afterwards, return to your ship for dinner. (BLD)

Day 8. Dublin, Freedom of Choice
Your ship will arrive in Dublin Bay this morning and enter the mouth of the River Liffey. From here, you have a choice of three activities. First option is to travel by coach into the Wicklow Mountains and visit the gardens of Powerscourt, with its charming walled garden, striking terraces, fine statuary, varied trees, carefully designed walking paths and more. Then travel to Mount Usher, a lovely romantic garden on the banks of the River Vartry. Second option is to visit the private garden of botanical author, Helen Dillon and Mt Usher Garden. The third option is to visit Helen Dillon’s garden then enjoy a sightseeing tour of Dublin. (BD)

Day 9. Waterford, Freedom of Choice
Your ship will arrive in Waterford on Ireland’s south eastern coast. From here, you’ll travel to Mount Congreve Gardens, a vast and visually inspiring woodland garden set on the banks of the River Suir. Later, select from two touring options. First option is to travel to Kilkenny, one of Ireland’s most historic and attractive cities, and visit Kilkenny Castle and the design centre before returning to Waterford. The second option is to remain in County Waterford for a visit to Lismore Castle, which features the oldest continually cultivated gardens in Ireland, followed by a tour of the world-famous Waterford Crystal Factory. (BLD)

Day 10. Isles of Scilly and Tresco
Today will see you cruising amid the beautiful Isles of Scilly, an archipelago off Great Britain’s south western tip. Disembark on the island of Tresco, considered by many to be the most attractive of the islands. It is leased by the Dorrien-Smith family, who have created a wonderful 40 acre sub-tropical garden near their Tresco Abbey home. You’ll have the opportunity to go for a relaxing stroll along the traffic-free lanes and wander along one of the lovely white-sand beaches where the sea colour has more in common with the Aegean than the North Atlantic. Back on board for lunch and afternoon tea before a special Farewell Dinner. (BLD)

Day 11. Portsmouth and Arrive London
After breakfast this morning, you’ll disembark the MS Hebridean Sky in the English waterfront city of Portsmouth. From here, you’ll be transferred by coach to London, arriving at Heathrow Airport at around 12.30pm or the St James Court Hotel which is in Central London at around 1.30pm. (B)

Birdlife of the British Isles
While taking in the spectacular coastal scenery of the British Isles, you’ll be joined by an ornithologist, who will share their expertise on the many species of birds that call the British Isles home. This is the season when they are at their most prolific.

Small Ship Cruising with Botanica
As you uncover the delights of the British Isles, you’ll enjoy a truly intimate and unique small ship cruising experience aboard the MS Hebridean Sky. Experience great hospitality from the moment you step on board and relax, knowing you only have to unpack once before unwinding in your spacious home-away-from-home. While taking in the spectacular coastal scenery of the British Isles, you’ll be joined by expert onboard lecturers, including a dedicated ornithologist, who will share their expertise on the many species of birds that call the British Isles home, as well as history and garden lectures.

Monty DonSpecial Guest Speaker – Monty Don
Garden author, journalist and presenter, Monty Don will join your cruise where he will conduct an informative lecture.

This tour can be combined with other Botanica tours:

· Loire Valley & Chelsea Flower Show (BTLVC9)
· British Isles & Cornwall (BTBNCC15)
· London & Chelsea Flower Show (BTCFS5)

Cherry Blossoms in Japan & South Korea Cruise

ITIINERARY

 

Day 1. Arrive Osaka
Arrive into Osaka Airport and be met and transferred to your hotel. This evening at 6.30pm, enjoy a Welcome Dinner where you’ll have the opportunity to meet your fellow Botanica travellers.
Stay: Osaka, Imperial Hotel or similar (D)

Day 2. Kyoto and Embark Ship
This morning depart Osaka to Kyoto where we will visit the rock garden masterpiece
of Ryoanji and Kinkakuji, a fine example of Muromachi period garden design. After lunch, transfer to the MS Caledonian Sky in Kobe. Enjoy a special dinner with the ship’s crew this evening, as we set sail for the port of Okayama.
Ten Nights: MS Caledonian Sky (BLD)

Day 3. Okayama, Koraku-en Garden and Kurashiki.
After breakfast this morning, we will visit Koraku-en Garden, one of Japan’s most significant gardens – the name meaning ‘garden of pleasure after’. Visit a classic teahouse, and experience a traditional tea ceremony. After a local lunch, continue to Kurashiki, where we explore the old merchant quarter and its fine 17th century wooden warehouses. The beautiful houses are painted white with traditional black tiles, and are situated along a canal lined with rows of majestic weeping willows. (BLD)

Day 4. Takamatsu and Ritsurin Park
Today tour the stunning city of Takamatsu on Shikoku, the smallest of the four main Japanese Islands. We will journey over the Seto-Ohashi Bridge and visit Ritsurin Park, a 350-year-old garden, famous for its magnificent spring colours. See the Chrysanthemum-Moon Pavilion, then visit Kinashi Bonsai Town. (BLD)

Day 5. Hiroshima and Miyajima
Arrive in Hiroshima to visit the compelling Peace Memorial Park. The park is dotted with memorials, including the cenotaph that contains the names of all the known victims of the A-bomb. Return to the ship for lunch, then continue to Miyajima. Considered one of Japan’s top scenic wonders, Miyajima provides a picture-postcard vista of the scarlet Torii Gate, the giant camphor wood gates at the entrance to the Shinto Shrine. We will go ashore to explore the World Heritage-listed Itsukushima Jinja Shrine, founded in the 6th century and dedicated to three sea goddesses. (BLD)

Day 6. Uwajima
Arrive in Uwajima, situated deep inside the saw-toothed coast of Uwajima Bay. The city of Uwajima is emerging as the nation’s largest pearl cultivation centre. Learn the process of implanting, harvesting, extracting and sorting pearls on a visit to a pearl farm. We will continue to Sakiiya Square or choose to visit Dairakuji Temple. (BLD)

Day 7. Nagasaki and Dejima Island
Arrive at Nagasaki, the second city destroyed by an A-bomb in World War II. Tour the Peace Memorial Park, Atomic Bomb Museum and Glover Garden. Continue to Dejima Island, built during the Edo Period to accommodate Portuguese Christian missionaries and prevent the propagation of their religion. It was also once the residential quarters of the Dutch, the only foreigners allowed to trade in Japan during the Sakoku isolation Period for 200 years, until Japan reopened to the world. (BLD)

Day 8. Pusan, South Korea
Embark on a full-day excursion to Kyongju, in South Korea, a World Heritage-listed site often described as the world’s finest open-air museum. As the ancient capital of the Shilla Dynasty, Kyongju’s heritage dates back to the first millennium. As we stroll through some of the numerous excavated monuments, temples, tombs and pagodas, there will be time to explore the National Museum, with its exceptional collection of finely worked gold jewellery, metal weapons and distinctive pottery. At lunch, sample Korean delicacies and enjoy the spectacle of traditional dancers during a cultural performance. (BLD)

Day 9. Hagi
Japan’s revolution began here in Jokamachi’s old Samurai residential quarter, where we will tour a Samurai’s home. We will also visit the historic Daisho Temple, the resting place of the two first Mori daimyo a family of powerful and territorial pre-modern Japanese lords and all of the even-numbered daimyo. This traditional temple is located on Mount Mison, considered a holy mountain, on the island of Itsukushima. Inside, you will find a flame that is said to have been burning for some 1,200 years. We will also take time to explore Hagi, one of Japan’s most beautiful castle towns, where you can explore the old streets and see the Hagi Castle ruins, Shizuki Park and the Tokoji Temple. (BLD)

Day 10. Matsue and Yuushien Garden
Known as the ‘Town of Water’, Matsue, is on the shores of a scenic lake and a large lagoon. Here, you’ll visit a number of cultural attractions including Matsue Castle. Known as the ‘Black Castle’, it is one of only a few wooden Medieval castles that remain in Japan today. Admire the structure’s complexity from the outside, as it stands gracefully, watching over the city, and take the opportunity to explore the interior, which affords magnificent views of Lake Shinji. This afternoon, we will visit the stunning Yuushien Garden, a traditional flower garden full of colour and blossom, famous for ginseng and peonies. (BLD)

Day 11. Kanazawa and Kenroku-en Garden
Kanazawa is a thriving centre of the arts, long known for its lacquer-ware, outstanding collectible pottery of the Kutani style, gold-leaf workmanship and delicate hand-painting of silk for kimonos and Noh theatre dramas. The winding cobblestone streets have a quaint photogenic charm. Around each bend is a traditional house, museum, art gallery, craft shop, Samurai residence and even a Geisha house to explore. The fascinating open-air market displays a vast variety of items from flowers to fish to local handicrafts. Next we visit the Kanazawa Castle ruins, which is one of Japan’s premier highlights, and the famed Kenroku-en Garden, is ranked among the country’s top gardens. (BLD)

Day 12. Kanazawa and Tokyo
Disembark the ship this morning and take the Bullet Train to Tokyo. On arrival, enjoy an afternoon sightseeing tour of Tokyo. We then transfer to our hotel for an overnight stay and Farewell Dinner.
Stay: Tokyo, New Otani Hotel or similar (BLD)

Day 13. Depart Tokyo.
After breakfast this morning, you will be transferred to the airport by shuttle bus for your flight home. (B)

Japanese Cherry Blossoms
Embark on a stylish voyage of horticultural discovery and explore this fascinating region, aboard this Botanica cruise. In the heart of cherry blossom season, Botanica guests will be enchanted by the sight of the beautiful and richly symbolic sakura flower in full bloom. Venture along the historic shores of Japan and South Korea on this incredible botanical journey. The cherry blossom heralds the start of spring and the delicate blossom only stays on the trees for two weeks. This time of year is highly revered by the Japanese, who celebrate with festivals and events.

British Isles, Castles, Gardens, History and Birdlife Cruise

11 Days (10 nights) – London to Edinburgh

Day 1. Arrive London and Embark Ship

On arrival, you will be met at the airport and transferred to Portsmouth (12.30 pm from the pre-cruise hotel or 1.00 pm from Victoria Coach Terminal) to board the MS Island Sky, your floating home for the next 10 nights.
Stay: Ten Nights: Aboard the luxurious small ship, the MS Island Sky
  • Daily Meals Included:
  • • Dinner

Day 2. Isles of Scilly and Tresco

Today you will cruise amid the beautiful Isles of Scilly, an idyllic archipelago off Great Britain’s southwestern tip. Disembark on the Island of Tresco, considered by many to be the most attractive of the islands. It is leased by the Dorrien-Smith family, who have created a wonderful 40-acre sub-tropical garden near their Tresco Abbey home. Here, enjoy a guided tour of the magnificent gardens, now internationally known as one of the finest examples of sub-tropical flora and fauna in the Northern Hemisphere. During your time here, you’ll also have the opportunity to go for a relaxing stroll along the traffic-free lanes of the island, and wander along one of the lovely white-sand beaches where the sea colour has more in common with the Aegean than the North Atlantic. This evening, enjoy a delicious dinner.
  • Daily Meals Included:
  • • Breakfast
  • • Lunch
  • • Dinner

Day 3. Dunmore East, Freedom of Choice Touring

Your ship will arrive this evening at the picturesque fishing village of Dunmore East in County Waterford on Ireland’s southeastern coast. From here, you’ll travel to Mount Congreve Gardens, a vast and visually inspiring woodland garden set on the banks of the River Suir. Measuring around 70 acres, this privately-owned property features a four-acre walled garden. Later, choose from two touring options. You might like to drive to Kilkenny, one of Ireland’s most historic and attractive cities, where you will tour the Kilkenny Castle and design centre. Or, perhaps remain in County Waterford and visit Lismore Castle, which features the oldest continually cultivated gardens in Ireland, followed by a tour of the world-famous Waterford Crystal Factory.
  • Daily Meals Included:
  • • Breakfast
  • • Lunch
  • • Dinner

Day 4. Dublin, Freedom of Choice Touring

Arrive in Dublin Bay and enter the mouth of the River Liffey. From here, you have a choice of activities. Perhaps travel by coach into Ireland’s Wicklow Mountains and visit the gardens of Powerscourt and Mount Usher, or perhaps visit the private garden of botanical author, Helen Dillon and Mt Usher, or enjoy time at leisure to explore Dublin.
  • Daily Meals Included:
  • • Breakfast
  • • Dinner

Day 5. Welsh Gardens, Freedom of Choice Touring

This morning after breakfast, you’ll cruise to the Welsh Coast. Here, choose from a tour of Portmeirion village and its gardens, or perhaps visit the gardens of nearby Plas Brondanw, the family home of Clough Williams-Ellis. Then drive through the famous Snowdonia region to Bodnant Garden, one of the most beautiful gardens in the United Kingdom. Spanning some 80 acres, the garden is set above the River Conwy and offers views to the Snowdonia range. Spend the afternoon strolling through the upper garden with its terraces and informal lawns, then continue into the wild garden of the lower section, formed by the valley of the River Hiraethlyn. In the evening, you will return to your ship for dinner back on board.
  • Daily Meals Included:
  • • Breakfast
  • • Lunch
  • • Dinner

Day 6. Belfast and Mount Stewart

Disembark your luxurious small ship in Belfast and enjoy a sightseeing city tour. Later, visit Mount Stewart, an 18th-century house and garden in County Down, Northern Ireland. Planted in the 1920s by Lady Londonderry, the beautiful gardens today are owned by The National Trust and are of significant international importance.
  • Daily Meals Included:
  • • Breakfast
  • • Lunch
  • • Dinner

Day 7. Isle of Jura, Isle of Gigha, Achamore House and Gardens

Cruise to the Isle of Jura, where you’ll have the option to visit a 200-year-old Single Malt Scotch Whisky Distillery or perhaps enjoy a walk. This afternoon, cruise to the Isle of Gigha. Privately owned by its 120 inhabitants, the island landscape consists of heather-covered hills, deserted sandy beaches, clear green seas and just one single-lane road. Here, wander through the gardens of Achamore House. Laid out by Sir James Horlick from 1944, this stunning garden boasts a wonderful collection of azaleas, rhododendrons and exotic plants.
  • Daily Meals Included:
  • • Breakfast
  • • Lunch
  • • Dinner

Day 8. Isle of Iona, Isle of Mull and Duart Castle

Cruise to the Isle of Iona, a place of tranquillity and natural beauty, where more than 40 Scottish Kings, as well as Kings from Ireland, France and Norway are buried. Explore the elaborate and well-preserved Iona Abbey, and perhaps take a short walk to the Bay at the Back of the Ocean. Next, we set off to the Isle of Mull and Tobermory for a visit to Duart Castle, a 13th-century clifftop castle surrounded by the Millennium Wood – a superb collection of indigenous trees and shrubs planted in the year 2000.
  • Daily Meals Included:
  • • Breakfast
  • • Lunch
  • • Dinner

Day 9. Inverewe Gardens

Today you’ll cruise past the Isle of Skye and The Minch. Afterwards, your ship will drop anchor and you’ll enjoy a zodiac ride to one of Scotland’s premier gardens, Inverewe. Set on the coast among the north-west Scottish Highlands and widely regarded as one of the most beautiful gardens of the region, this botanical garden presents an amazing collection of exotic trees and shrubs that are sheltered by well-positioned windbreaks of native pine. Wander through the incredible gardens, covering some 49 acres, where you have the opportunity to take in the natural beauty of over 2,500 exotic plants and flowers.
  • Daily Meals Included:
  • • Breakfast
  • • Lunch
  • • Dinner

Day 10. Aberdeen and Crathes Castle

Cruising along Scotland’s east coast, over the waters of the North Sea, today you’ll arrive at Aberdeen. Disembark and travel by coach through Royal Deeside, the picturesque valley of the River Dee. Absorb the lovely scenery as you head to Crathes Castle. This magical 16th-century castle is renowned for its 240 hectares of incredible landscaped grounds and formal gardens. Here, take in the cinematic Scottish countryside as you explore the garden and surrounding woodlands. Back on board, enjoy an afternoon at sea before a special Farewell Dinner this evening.
  • Daily Meals Included:
  • • Breakfast
  • • Lunch
  • • Dinner

Day 11. Disembark Ship and Depart Edinburgh

After breakfast, disembark the MS Island Sky in Edinburgh.
  • Daily Meals Included:
  • • Breakfast