Britain and England in particular, is known as a land of gardens and gardeners. Due to our warm and wet climate we have produced some truly beautiful gardens from the humble back garden to the epic grounds of Chatsworth House or Highgrove House. Gardening programmes pop up all over the television schedules and we spend millions at the garden centre. Well, we are not alone. Although Africa may not be the first place you think about when you think about beautiful gardens it is actually home to many gorgeous examples.
In Morocco you can find the fabulous Jardins Majorelle (also known as the Yves St Laurent Gardens) in Marrakech which are vibrantly spectacular. They were created in 1919 by the French artist Jacques Majorelle but then taken over by Yves St Laurent and his partner in 1980 when they set about restoring them. As they were created by an artist they are very colourful with strong contrasts and high visual impact. Not only do they showcase plants from the five continents but they aim to provide a place for inspiration and contemplation. The backdrop for the gardens is the bold Moroccan architecture with shots of cobalt blue throughout and the use of traditional tiles and arches as frames and backdrops. There are fountains and shady corners, patios and walkways. It is a great place to visit to escape the hustle and bustle of busy Marrakech and it is a place to soak up colour and beauty in equal measure. It is also home to an important collection of Islamic Art.
But for me the best garden is found in South Africa. I was lucky enough to visit Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens in Cape Town a few years ago and I have to say it is probably one of my favourite places on the planet. Set at the foot of Table Mountain which provides the most stunning of backdrops, Kirstenbosch offers a natural environment for showcasing the natural flora of South Africa. Kirstenbosch was owned by Cecil Rhodes who bequeathed to the South African government. The work was started by Professor Pearson in 1913 to develop the site as a botanical garden and the work still continues today. The gardens showcase the local fynbos plants native to the Cape such as proteas, ericas and buchus as well as a huge range of other plants and trees. You can easily spend the whole day wondering around just soaking up the atmosphere and the tranquillity of the place. You really do feel as if you are in a natural environment that fits right in with the landscape rather than in a manmade, carefully constructed garden. A true garden of Eden!
