The Best Gardens

Powerscourt Gardens (County Wicklow): One of the most grandiose of Irish gardens, set amid the natural splendor of the northern Wicklow Hills. Only 19km (12 miles) from Dublin, the gardens and nearby waterfall make a great day's outing, and a welcome respite from the noise and congestion of the city.

Japanese Gardens (County Kildare): On the grounds of the National Stud, this is considered the only authentic Japanese garden in Ireland, and one of the finest in Europe. A Japanese specialist planned the structure and symbolism, and most of the plants and stones were imported from Japan.

Ilnacullin (County Cork): A ferry conveys visitors from a lovely, rhododendron-rimmed bay in the town of Glengarriff to Garinish Island, the unlikely site of a fine Italianate garden. The formal garden, with the Casita at its center, is linked to a "wild garden" that showcases a collection of rhododendrons, azaleas, and rare trees.

Glenveagh National Park (County Donegal): The gardens and castle are located in a barren, beautiful valley high in the hills of Donegal, along the banks of Lough Veagh. The park contains a statuary garden, a walled garden, and a rhododendron-lined path that leads to a stunning vista overlooking castle and lake.

Mount Stewart Gardens (County Down): Built upon an elaborate plan, the Mount Stewart house has several small gardens of distinctive character. The Ards Peninsula provides a climate conducive to cultivating many subtropical species. The statuary, topiary, and planting designs reflect a touch of whimsy.

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