| Benmore Botanic Garden , Dunoon PA23 8QU | |
| 01369706261 | |
| Benmore Botanic Garden Website | |
For true drama visit Benmore Botanic Garden, renowned for its fine collections of rhododendrons and conifers grown to immense stature in a mountain landscape.
Benmore's 120 acres are home to a world-famous collection of plants from regions ranging from the Himalaya, China and Japan to North and South America. Other Garden features include:
Giants of Benmore
You will be welcomed through the 150 year old Redwood Avenue, one of the finest entrances to any botanic garden. The towering giant redwoods are awe-inspiring as are many other trees at Benmore including the Douglas fir, Scots pines and Monkey puzzles.
A Riot of Rhododendrons
In the spring and early summer months, Benmore's slopes are alive with brilliant reds, shocking pinks and papery whites as its unique and world-leading rhododendron collection blooms. This spectacular display comprises over 300 species arranged by botanical grouping and geographic origin.
Spectacular Views
Energetic visitors can enjoy an ascent to a spectacular viewpoint at 137 metres (450 ft) to enjoy views of Holy Loch and the neighbouring mountains. See the traditional Bhutanese and Chilean pavilions along the way. On lower ground, accessible to all, enjoy the splendour of the Golden Gates dating back to 1878 and the serenity of the Pond.
Wildlife
A walk through Benmore can bring close encounters with red squirrels, sparrowhawks and the occasional Golden Eagle. The Wildlife Hide is the ideal spot to watch out for wildlife.
Victorian Fernery
On the hillside, a winding path leads to the Fernery. Amidst rocky cliffs, this beautiful Victorian structure provides a dazzle of light, space and lush greenery. Ferns sprout from rocks in delicate feathery fountains, creep along the ground and cascade down walls.
Horatio's Garden opened in August 2016 at the Scottish National Spinal Injuries Unit at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow. This is the spinal unit for the whole of Scotland.
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