The Botanical Garden of Villa Taranto, located in Verbania, is one of the most famous floral wonders in Italy. With its thousands of botanical species from all over the world, this garden is an unmissable destination for lovers of nature and beauty.
A historic and international garden
Created in 1931 by Scottish captain Neil McEacharn, the Botanical Garden of Villa Taranto extends over approximately 16 hectares and is home to more than 20,000 varieties of plants, some of which are very rare. McEacharn, a botany enthusiast, transformed this hilly area into a unique garden, combining exotic plants with native vegetation, giving life to a masterpiece of natural beauty.
What to see at Villa Taranto
Exploring the garden is like taking a trip around the world through its plants. Here are some of the main attractions not to be missed:
1. The Fountain of Putti: Located at the entrance to the garden, this fountain welcomes visitors with a touch of elegance and serenity.
2. The Dahlia Labyrinth: An explosion of colors and scents, with over 300 varieties of dahlias in bloom during the summer season.
3. Valletta: A suggestive corner characterized by water games, streams and aquatic plants.
4. The Vertical Garden: A unique work, with plants that grow on vertical walls, creating a spectacular scenographic effect.
5. The tropical greenhouses: Here you can admire exotic plants from distant regions, such as rare orchids and giant water lilies.
6. Tulips in spring: During the spring season, the garden transforms into a sea of colors thanks to thousands of tulips, an unmissable spectacle.
When to visit the garden
The Botanical Garden of Villa Taranto is generally open from March to November. Each season offers a unique experience:
• Spring: The ideal time to admire the tulips, daffodils and magnolias.
• Summer: The garden explodes with color with dahlias, water lilies and tropical plants.
• Autumn: The leaves take on warm and suggestive shades, making the garden particularly romantic.
How to reach Villa Taranto
Villa Taranto is located in Pallanza, a hamlet of Verbania, and is easily accessible:
• From Cannobio: About 30 minutes by car (25 km) along the SS34.
• By boat: Navigazione Lago Maggiore offers regular connections to Verbania, with departures from Cannobio and other locations on the lake.
Useful information
• Tickets: Entrance costs about 11 euros for adults, with reductions for children and groups.
• Opening hours: The garden is open every day during the season, generally from 8:30 to 18:30. It is advisable to consult the official website for any changes.
• Parking: Free parking is available near the entrance.
Visiting tips
• Wear comfortable shoes, as the garden is large and there is a lot of walking.
• Allow at least 2-3 hours to calmly explore all the main areas.
• Don't forget a camera: the garden offers extraordinary views in every season.
An unforgettable experience
Exploring the Botanical Garden of Villa Taranto is much more than a simple walk among the plants: it is an immersion in the beauty, peace and wonder of nature. Whether you are a botany enthusiast, a photographer looking for inspiration or simply a lover of evocative places, Villa Taranto will win you over with its unique charm.