Villa Taranto
By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 18 January 2024
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The botanical gardens of Villa Taranto are located on the shores of Lake Maggiore, just a short distance from the town of Verbania in the Province of Verbano Cusio Ossola.
The garden was created in 1940 and is one of the most spectacular of its kind in the whole country. Nearby places of interest include the Sacro Monte di Ghiffa, Isola Madre, Baveno and Feriolo. |
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Villa Taranto is a stunning botanical garden located on the western shore of Lake Maggiore, near the town of Verbania in the Piedmont region of northern Italy. The garden was created in the mid-20th century by Captain Neil McEacharn, a Scottish naval officer, and his wife, Dora Jane Taranto. They purchased the property in 1931 and started transforming it into one of the most beautiful and renowned gardens in Italy.
The garden is named after Dora Jane Taranto, who was originally from the United States, and the villa itself was constructed in the early 19th century. The couple began their ambitious project by planting thousands of different plant species, many of which were brought from around the world. Today, Villa Taranto is home to an impressive collection of plants and flowers from all continents.
Villa Taranto covers an area of about 16 hectares (40 acres) and features an astonishing diversity of flora. The gardens are beautifully landscaped, with meandering paths, cascading water features, and colorful flowerbeds, creating a harmonious and tranquil environment for visitors to explore.
The garden is named after Dora Jane Taranto, who was originally from the United States, and the villa itself was constructed in the early 19th century. The couple began their ambitious project by planting thousands of different plant species, many of which were brought from around the world. Today, Villa Taranto is home to an impressive collection of plants and flowers from all continents.
Villa Taranto covers an area of about 16 hectares (40 acres) and features an astonishing diversity of flora. The gardens are beautifully landscaped, with meandering paths, cascading water features, and colorful flowerbeds, creating a harmonious and tranquil environment for visitors to explore.
Key features
- The Main Terrace: This grand terrace offers breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding mountains. It is adorned with a spectacular fountain and formal flowerbeds that bloom with seasonal flowers.
- The Bamboo Garden: One of the highlights of the garden is the Bamboo Garden, where visitors can walk among tall bamboo groves, creating a serene and exotic ambiance.
- The Dahlia Garden: Villa Taranto is famous for its extensive collection of dahlias, showcasing a riot of colors and shapes during the blooming season.
- The Japanese Garden: A serene and meditative space inspired by traditional Japanese garden design, complete with a pagoda, bridges, and peaceful ponds.
- The Rose Garden: A delightful area dedicated to various species of roses, displaying a kaleidoscope of colors and fragrances.
Visitor information
- Visiting Hours: Villa Taranto is generally open to the public from late March to early November. The garden has different opening hours depending on the season, with longer hours during the peak summer months.
- Entry Fee: There is an entrance fee to access the gardens, and visitors can purchase tickets at the entrance.
- Guided Tours: Guided tours are available for visitors who want to learn more about the history and botanical treasures of Villa Taranto.
- Accessibility: The gardens are mostly accessible to wheelchair users, with paved paths and ramps providing access to various areas.
- Getting There: Villa Taranto is easily accessible by car or public transport. The garden has a parking area for visitors arriving by car.
Giardini Botanici Villa Taranto
Comune: Verbania
Province: Verbano Cusio Ossola Region: Piedmont Created: 1940 Close by: Sacro Monte di Ghiffa, Isola Madre, Baveno, Feriolo Recommended accommodation: Hotel San Gottardo (3 km) |