Nature
lover, Robert Price, founded the Vallarta Botanical Garden in 2004, and with
the endless flourishing species that cover this haven of 60 acres, Mr Price
– the gardens’ curator – continues to
give much love to its appealing tapestry of natural colours and sounds – a
natural habitat for over 211 bird species as well.
I took many photos; the ones you see here represent a fraction of its floral munificence.
I wandered
into four conservatories each featuring native Mexican plants, cacti and
succulent plants, orchids and rhododendrons. There’s even a peace garden whose
international plants represent universality. This tranquil area is crowned with
a multi-faith church at the top of the ascending stairs.
An extraordinary accomplishment is the
Tillandsia House. Highly popular in North America, Europe and most recently in
Asia, tillandisia has finally arrived here:
the gardens is the first public structure to display these amazing
plants in Mexico.
Walking trails reveal themselves naturally; they’re not manicured inventions. Within the plethora of flowers and exotic trees, coffee, vanilla and cocoa plants thrive here.
Walking trails reveal themselves naturally; they’re not manicured inventions. Within the plethora of flowers and exotic trees, coffee, vanilla and cocoa plants thrive here.
One of my favourite paths was the remarkable Horcones River Trail. Waters descend from surrounding canyons, converging to create a natural swimming basin. Bordering the trail is constant cascading water circling around huge round rocks. It’s beautiful.
Your ticket
into the gardens is good for two consecutive days, but make sure you eat
upstairs; the food is sensational, and don’t leave without visiting the lovely
gift area.
You can also book this excursion at the hotel.
I decided to take the 2 buses you need in order to reach this rewarding
destination. Then again, you can always
hop in a taxi.
The gardens’
educational programs receive donations that qualify for the Canadian Children’s
Shelter of Hope Foundation, and for many garden projects.
Puerto Vallarta:
Garca Blanca: