With all of the chilly weather, sometimes I can't help but dream of spring. Don't get me wrong, I love snow, the holidays, and drinking a big mug of hot cocoa while curled up on the couch binge-watching HGTV's "Fixer Upper." However, I'm a cold body -- meaning I am always cold. So it's safe to say that winter isn't my favorite season. With that said, I love springtime because of the beautiful blossoming flowers and vibrant green foliage. While reminiscing on nature's beauty during the spring, I took to the Internet in search for some of the world's most stunning gardens. Here are five that I can't seem to get off my mind.
1. Keukenhof Gardens, Lisse, Netherlands
This spectacular garden is regarded as one of the most beautiful and colorful gardens on the planet. Keukenhof contains a whopping 800 different varieties of tulips that cover approximately 79 acres of land. Over 7 million bulbs of tulips are planted annually, engaging everyone from flower enthusiasts to young children.
2. Butchart Gardens, Brentwood Bay, Canada
Ranked No. 3 by National Geographic in its list of Top 10 Most Magnificent Gardens, this public garden quickly grabbed my attention. Each year, 900 different varieties of over a million flowers are planted, blooming continuously from March until October. The beauty of nature is celebrated every season in the gardens. Even during the winter, Butchart entertains its visitors with its Magic of Christmas celebration that includes an array of Christmas lights, wreaths, ice skating, and festive dining.
3. Yu Garden, Shanghai, China
This mystical garden dates back to 1559 and is famously regarded as emerging from the Ming Dynasty. This serene garden offers marvelous views of exquisite flora and exotic stones.
4. Monet's Garden, Giverny, France
This garden actually contains two gardens that contrast and complement each other quite nicely.
The flower garden is named Clos Normand and is located directly in front of Monet's residence.
The Japanese water garden contains the famous Japanese bridge covered in wisteria that inspired Monet's Water Lily painting. Additionally, the water garden contains beautiful weeping willows, bamboo wood, and the stunning water lilies that bloom at summer long.
These beautiful gardens are open to the public, making them easy tourist destinations for all nature lovers. What's holding you back from visiting one of these beauties? Well, sure, time and money may be a little bit of a predicament. I guess viewing pictures on the internet will have to do for now!
