From the well-manicured estates in England to cherry blossom season in Japan, the world is full of wonderful gardens just waiting to be explored. The trouble is, knowing where to go, when to go, and who to go with isn’t always a walk in the park. In fact, these are some of the reasons why more and more US travelers are embracing the garden tour experience.

On a garden tour, everything is organized and arranged before you even step foot on the plane. From flights to sights, accommodation, transport, and tickets, this is a level of convenience that’s tough to match.

So, why are more and more people deciding to join specialist garden tours? Let’s take a look.

What is a Group Garden Tour?

Never embarked on a group garden tour? Curious about what it entails? Here’s a quick overview.

A garden tour is a guided travel experience built around visiting carefully selected gardens, estates, green spaces, landscaped grounds, and various other local sights. Even though the great outdoors is the primary focus, it is not quite the same as a hiking or nature tour.

These tours are also led by experts in horticulture, with an aim to educate, inspire, and immerse travelers in the fascinating world of garden design and landscape architecture. During this journey, guests learn all about:

• > Garden history and cultural significance
• > Plant species and seasonal displays
• > Landscape design principles
• > Sustainable gardening practices
• > Maintenance techniques used by professionals

The Top Destinations to Visit

While there’s a lot to see and do in the US, extraordinary beauty can be found in destinations across the globe. On a guided garden tour, you’ll have the chance to see all of the following locations and more!

Europe

England

Experience some of the world’s most celebrated gardens, from grand country estates to charming cottage gardens. Highlights include the Chelsea Flower Show, historic landscapes, and centuries of horticultural tradition.

Scotland

Discover dramatic landscapes, magnificent estates, and beautifully maintained gardens set against Scotland’s iconic scenery. Garden visits are complemented by rich history, culture and breathtaking natural beauty.

Ireland

Explore elegant private estates, renowned public gardens, and picturesque countryside settings. Ireland’s warm hospitality and lush landscapes make it a favorite destination for garden enthusiasts.

Greece

Visit beautiful islands in the middle of the Mediterranean, where stunning coastlines blend with ancient history and island beauty. Destinations such as Santorini and Corfu offer stunning landscapes, vibrant flora, and unforgettable views.

Italy

Italy combines world-famous gardens, historic villas, and breathtaking landscapes. From Tuscany to Sicily, each region offers its own distinctive blend of beauty, culture, and horticultural excellence.

Portugal

From the subtropical gardens of Madeira to the historic landscapes of mainland Portugal, this destination offers a unique blend of horticulture and culture. Visitors can enjoy colorful plant collections, stunning coastal scenery, and charming towns.

Asia

Japan

Experience the beauty of Japan’s seasonal gardens, from world-famous cherry blossoms to historic and carefully manicured castle grounds. Traditional garden design, cultural heritage, incredible food, and stunning scenery combine to create an unforgettable journey.

Singapore

Find out why ‘The City in a Garden’ is one of the most popular destinations. From Gardens by the Bay to Raffles Hotel and the Botanic Gardens, Singapore seamlessly blends tropical beauty with truly innovative landscape design.

Credit: Singapore Tourism Board

India

Journey through Southern India, an incredible region full of colorful gardens, historic palaces, and diverse landscapes. Rich cultural traditions and a truly distinctive biosphere make this a once in a lifetime opportunity for travelers.

Sri Lanka

Explore a captivating mix of tropical gardens, tea plantations, ancient rock formations and lush landscapes. Sri Lanka’s natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage provide a truly immersive experience.

Borneo

Discover one of the world’s most biodiverse regions, home to an avian paradise of extraordinary birds, tropical flora, and ancient rainforests. Borneo offers a special opportunity to experience nature on a remarkable scale.

Oceania

Australia

From the cool-climate gardens of Tasmania to flower shows in Melbourne and wildflower displays of Western Australia, Australia has an unrivaled environment that’s unlike anywhere else on the globe. Every region showcases its own unique landscapes, plants, and gardening traditions.

New Zealand

Find out why New Zealand is so highly regarded and revered by travelers. There’s everything from spectacular private gardens to renowned garden festivals, and stunning natural scenery highlighted so beautifully in the Lord of the Rings films. New Zealand’s combination of horticultural excellence and warm hospitality creates an exceptional touring experience.

Photo courtesy of Jill Simpson

Norfolk Island

Experience beautiful subtropical gardens, historic sites, and a relaxed island atmosphere. Norfolk Island offers a signature blend of natural beauty and fascinating heritage.

French Polynesia

Explore the tropical paradise of Tahiti and Moorea, where vibrant gardens meet crystal-clear waters and dramatic mountain landscapes. This idyllic destination offers a perfect balance of relaxation and discovery.

North America

United States

Visit iconic gardens, historic estates, and world-renowned horticultural attractions across the country. From Longwood Gardens to the High Line, each destination offers something unique to explore.

Canada

Experience stunning gardens and beautiful landscapes that showcase the country’s natural beauty. Seasonal displays, coastal scenery, and welcoming communities make Canada a rewarding destination.

Africa

South Africa

Journey to the Rainbow Nation of South Africa, where you’ll experience one of the most awe-inspiring botanical regions in the entire world. Spectacular gardens, incredible wildlife, remarkable plant species, and unforgettable scenery all await.

South America

Peru

Combine spectacular scenery with fascinating history as you explore one of South America’s most captivating destinations. Ancient sites, mountain landscapes, and unique plant life create an unforgettable experience.

Ecuador & The Galapagos Islands

Discover extraordinary biodiversity both on the mainland and throughout the Galápagos Islands. This remarkable destination offers incredible wildlife encounters alongside spectacular natural landscapes.

The Benefits of Joining a Specialist Tour

Convenience and Ease

Everything is organized for you, from international flights to daily itineraries, making it ideal for those who want a stress-free experience.

Expert Guidance

Tours are led by experienced horticultural guides who provide deeper insights into plant species, garden history, and design.

Exclusive Access

Some itineraries include private garden visits or behind-the-scenes experiences not available to independent travelers.

Social Connection

You’ll travel with like-minded people who share a passion for gardens, often forming lasting friendships along the way.

Safety and Support

Traveling far from home is just that little bit easier with a dedicated guide and group support throughout the journey.

What Makes a Garden Tour Unique?

Here at Ross Tours, we offer specialist garden tours defined by thoughtful planning, expert curation, and a lifelong passion for horticulture. Whether we’re jetting off to Cape Town in September or embracing a European winter in December, every itinerary has been set out in a way that allows travelers to experience gardens at the absolute peak of their seasonal beauty.

A garden tour typically includes:

• > Carefully selected garden destinations
• > Small group sizes for a more personal experience
• > Comfortable pacing with time to explore
• > Inclusion of accommodation and major logistics
• > Opportunities for learning and interaction

The goal isn’t just sightseeing, but a meaningful engagement with each location, allowing you to truly appreciate its design, history, and natural beauty.

Book Your Spot on a Garden Tour Today

An international tour isn’t an average vacation, but a fascinating journey to some of the world’s most beautiful gardens. When the tour ends, you’ll touch down in the US full of inspiration and a brand-new perspective on what’s possible in your very own backyard.

The world is full of extraordinary beauty, from the Japan cherry blossom tour to the New Zealand small group tour and garden tours in England. Isn’t it time you went and saw it for yourself? Whether it’s your first garden tour or you’ve been before, each journey offers a fresh opportunity to learn, explore, and enjoy the tranquility and beauty of nature in full bloom.

Ready to start your adventure? Explore our upcoming International Garden Tours and join the

Ross Tours family on a journey you’ll never forget. Get in touch with us to make an inquiry!