The Royal Botantical Gardens Burlington, ONtario
I recently spent the weekend in Ontario, hooked on to a business trip I had in Buffalo, NY. I had been meaning to do this all summer, and It was August so I new I had to get on it before the summer escaped!
I spent the weekend based in Hamilton, and drove around the area to wineries, distilleries, and hiking. But my favorite stop by far was the Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington.
There are 4 different gardens within the nature reserve that houses the Gardens: Hendrie Park, Laking Garden, the Rock Garden, and Arboretum. You can get a ticket, and start your visit at the RBG Centre which also houses a year-round atrium, Mediterranean garden, cafe, shop, theater, and auditoriums.
I started off in the RBG Centre, and fell in love with the Cactus & Succulent Collection. The Mediterranean Garden was also beautiful, and housed many different plants as well as a small koi pond full of friendly fish.
Next I walked under the road Over to Hendrie Park. Here you will find reflecting pools and a tea garden in the center of the garden. Many trails in this garden lead you through nearly 20 different areas including a Veggie Village, Scented Garden, and Medicinal Garden. Each area is so distinct and beautiful. I fell in love with the Veggie Village and the variety of plants on display! I was also pleasantly surprised to find the Nature Connects Art with Lego Bricks placed around the gardens- they were truly amazing!
Laking Garden is a bit further down the road, accessible via car or hiking trails between the parks. This garden is full of peonies, irises, ornamental grasses and a perennial garden.
The Rock Garden was recently renovated, and has it's own visitor center. Walking through this garden, you'll be met with beautiful water features, gorgeous trees, flowers and dozens of floating waterlilies. I could have sat here all day!
Finally, I made my way to the Arboretum. I found magnolias, crab apples, and other trees and shrubs scatter throughout the grounds. You can also find connections to various trails for hiking or bird watching.
I spent a full day wandering the Royal Botanical Gardens, and it was a day well spent. I highly recommend stopping in if you find yourself in the area. You can find more information on their website at https://www.rbg.ca.
